Equity Group Unveils 2024 Sustainability Report Highlighting Measurable Progress and Impact
Nairobi, 21st October 2025 – Equity Group has released its fourth annual Sustainability Report for 2024, themed “A Sustainable World is a Transformed Africa.” The report demonstrates the Group’s measurable progress in advancing sustainability through its social, economic, and environmental pillars, which form the foundation of its Tri-Engine Model.
The 2024 report outlines how Equity continues to integrate sustainability into its operations, governance, and partnerships, addressing critical challenges such as climate change, social protection, and financial inclusion. It also emphasizes the Group’s leadership in developing innovative, inclusive, and environmentally responsible solutions for Africa’s transformation.
Read the full report here.
Driving Inclusive Growth and Resilience
A key highlight of the report is the expanded reach of the Equity Group Foundation’s Social Protection initiatives, which supported more than 447,000 vulnerable households through Kshs 25.8 billion (USD 199.7 million) in cash transfers and Kshs 4 billion (USD 31 million) in affordable credit. These efforts have enhanced resilience among refugees, host communities, and marginalized groups across the region.
Through strategic partnerships, financial empowerment, and capacity building, the Group continues to foster economic stability, environmental stewardship, and social inclusion across its markets in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan, the DRC, and Ethiopia.
Commitment to Nature and Climate Action
As one of the first African institutions to adopt the Task Force on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), Equity Group has reinforced its dedication to protecting biodiversity and natural ecosystems. The Group has embedded nature-related risk assessments in its decision-making processes, ensuring environmental considerations are central to its operations.
The report also details measurable progress in climate action, including the distribution of 44,732 clean energy products, the planting of 35 million trees, and financing initiatives that promote green and renewable energy solutions.
Sustainable Development Impact Disclosure (SDID) Report
In a first for the region, Equity Bank Kenya launched its inaugural Sustainable Development Impact Disclosure (SDID) Report in partnership with J.P. Morgan. The report aligns financial performance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and provides a data-driven framework for measuring real-world outcomes.
Read the SDID report here.
Dr. James Mwangi, Equity Group Managing Director and CEO, said:
“Sustainability is not just a goal for Equity Group; it is the guiding principle that defines how we do business. By embedding sustainability into every aspect of our operations, we are future-proofing our business, empowering people, and protecting the planet. Our Tri-Engine Model allows us to translate purpose into measurable impact, enabling communities to thrive.”
Sustainability as a Core Governance Principle
Equity Group Chairman, Prof. Isaac Macharia, emphasized that sustainability remains central to the institution’s governance:
“Sustainability is part of who we are. We have always believed that true prosperity is shared prosperity. Our tri-engine approach positions us to deliver long-term value while driving Africa’s transformation through resilience, innovation, and shared prosperity.”
H.E. Arnaud Suquet, the French Ambassador to Kenya and Somalia, praised Equity’s leadership:
“Equity Group’s continued commitment to sustainability shows that Africa can lead its own transformation. France is proud to partner with Equity in promoting climate-resilient agriculture and inclusive growth.”
Dr. Stephen Jackson, UN Resident Coordinator in Kenya, added:
“Equity is setting a benchmark for how the private sector can advance sustainability. This report is a blueprint for responsible business leadership across Africa.”
Recognized Global Leadership
Equity Group continues to earn global recognition for its purpose-driven business model. In 2024, it was ranked the Second Strongest Banking Brand in the World and the Most Valuable Brand in East and Central Africa by Brand Finance. The Group also received Euromoney’s Best Bank for Corporate Social Responsibility in Africa and was acknowledged by the IFC for its world-leading contributions to climate finance.
Transformative Impact Across Key Sectors
Waste Management:
The Group reduced waste by 18%, collecting 362 tons compared to 441 tons in 2023. Paper waste, which accounted for nearly half of all waste, was largely recycled through supplier partnerships and digitization initiatives.
People and Workplace:
Equity invested Kshs 846.6 million (USD 6.6 million) in employee training and development, equipping over 12,000 staff with skills in ESG governance, sustainability, and leadership. Women now represent 44% of employees and 35% of senior leadership roles.
Education and Leadership:
The Elimu Scholarship Program has supported 38,000 students, while the Equity Leaders Program (ELP) saw 130 scholars join international universities, including 13 Ivy League institutions. Additionally, 181 graduates have secured jobs through Equity and its partners.
Health:
Through Equity Afya, the Group operates 127 medical centres in Kenya and 5 in the DRC, serving 3.3 million patients and improving access to affordable, quality healthcare.
Agriculture:
The Foundation trained 245,675 farmers, mapped 178,138 farms, and supported 7,426 agribusinesses to promote climate-smart and data-driven farming. It also disbursed Kshs 502 million (USD 3.9 million) to enhance irrigation and reduce post-harvest losses.
Enterprise Development:
In 2024, 116,812 MSMEs were trained, and 95,700 benefited from mentorship and access to finance, boosting entrepreneurship and economic resilience.
Technology and Innovation:
Equity trained 300 individuals in data engineering, generative AI, and blockchain, creating 40 business prototypes to drive innovation across its operations.
