KCB Group PLC posted a profit after tax of KShs 68.4 billion for the full year ending December 2025, up 11% from the previous year, supported by an expanded loan book, higher income across key business lines, and disciplined cost management.
During the period, customer loans grew 15% to KShs 1.59 trillion, funding interest-earning assets that closed at KShs 1.84 trillion, a 13.8% year-on-year increase.
The bank’s Non-Performing Loans (NPL) ratio improved to 16.9%, down from 19.2%, reflecting proactive loan rehabilitation, aggressive recovery strategies, and the divestment from National Bank of Kenya.
Gross NPLs stood at KShs 211.8 billion, down from KShs 225.7 billion in 2024.
KCB Group CEO Paul Russo said, “Our focus on disciplined lending and sector-specific financing has enabled us to support households, businesses, and the public sector while maintaining a strong balance sheet. The reduction in NPLs reflects the effectiveness of our recovery and risk management strategies.”
The Group’s total assets grew 9.3% to KShs 2.15 trillion, demonstrating resilience and the success of its diversification strategy.
Total revenues increased to KShs 214 billion, driven by higher net interest income and non-funded income, which contributed 31% of revenues, supported by investments in digital banking.
In recognition of the strong performance, the Board has proposed a final dividend of KShs 3 per share, in addition to an interim dividend of KShs 4 per share paid in November 2025, bringing the total dividend for the year to KShs 7 per share, totaling KShs 22 billion.
The Group also benefited from non-banking subsidiaries, with KCB Bancassurance Intermediary, KCB Investment Bank, and KCB Asset Management posting profit before tax growth of 29%, 31%, and 54% respectively. Cost management efforts reduced the cost-to-income ratio to 42.5% from 45.4% in 2024.
Corporate Developments
-
KCB Bank Kenya allocated KShs 227 million for the 2026 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, marking six consecutive years of sponsorship.
-
In December, AfDB and KCB Bank Kenya signed a $150 million financing package to support green finance and climate-smart investments.
-
KCB entered into an agreement to invest in Pesapal Limited, aimed at accelerating digital commerce and inclusive growth across Africa.
-
The Group continued to enhance its digital footprint, launching a unified mobile app for payments, savings, and investments.
-
KCB received numerous local, regional, and global accolades, including being named Top Bank in Africa by The Banker.
KCB Group Chairman Dr. Joseph Kinyua said, “We remain focused on sustainable growth, strong governance, and supporting economic transformation across East Africa, even amid global uncertainties. Our improved loan portfolio and declining NPLs demonstrate that KCB continues to deliver long-term value for shareholders and customers alike.”
