UBA Kenya’s Turnaround Story: From Loss to KSh 426.8 Million Profit

United Bank for Africa (UBA) Kenya has recorded a recovery in its 2025 financial performance, posting a profit before tax of KES 426.8 million, compared to a loss in 2024, representing a 173% improvement, marking a milestone in the Bank’s transformation journey and reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth in the Kenyan market.

In Q1 2026, the Bank received an additional capital injection from its shareholder, UBA Plc, enabling full compliance with the Central Bank of Kenya’s minimum core capital requirement of KES 3 billion. This milestone demonstrates the Group’s strong confidence in Kenya as a strategic market and reaffirms UBA Kenya’s position as a well-capitalized and resilient financial institution.

During the period, customer Deposits grew by 76% to KES 1 billion, reflecting rising customer confidence and stronger relationships. At the same time, loans and Advances increased by 131%, demonstrating increased support to businesses and key sectors of the

As part of the Bank’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s economic development, UBA Kenya played a key role in the USD 150 million Road Securitization Programme, an infrastructure financing program designed to unlock liquidity for road contractors, accelerate road construction, support the completion of stalled projects, and improve overall infrastructure to boost trade and mobility. This investment solidified UBA Kenya’s role as a strategic partner in infrastructure development and structured finance, actively supporting both public and private sector growth in Kenya.

George O. Otieno, Chairman, Board of Directors, stated:

“UBA Kenya’s return to profitability marks a significant milestone. As a strategic subsidiary of UBA Plc, this reflects the Group’s strong confidence in Kenya, demonstrated through additional capital injection to ensure compliance with the minimum core capital requirement of KES 3 billion. This positions UBA Kenya on a solid foundation and enables us to play a greater role in supporting Kenya’s economic growth and deepening our contribution across key sectors of the economy.”

 Ms. Mary Mulili, Managing Director/CEO, UBA Kenya, added:

“Our return to profitability is a clear signal that UBA Kenya is on the right path. We have strengthened our foundation and are now focused on growth. With the continued support of UBA Group, we are confident in our ability to deliver value to our customers, support businesses, and play a meaningful role in Kenya’s economic transformation.”

 UBA Kenya’s growth is anchored on key strategic pillars:

• Cross-Border Trade: Leveraging UBA’s pan-African network and solutions such as PAPSS to facilitate seamless intra-African trade
• Sector-Focused Lending: Targeting Manufacturing, Trade, Agriculture, Mining, and Construction
• SME & Ecosystem Financing: Supporting value chains through tailored financing solutions
• Digital Innovation: Expanding payment solutions, digital banking platforms, and enhancing customer experience
• Sustainable & Green Financing: Advancing clean energy financing and environmentally responsible investments

With a strengthened capital base, improved financial performance, and continued backing from UBA Group, UBA Kenya is well-positioned for sustained growth. The Bank’s outlook remains strong and optimistic, with a clear focus on:

• Scaling lending to businesses across priority sectors
• Driving financial inclusion and access to finance
• Enabling trade across Africa
• Supporting infrastructure and economic development
• Delivering innovative, customer-centric banking solutions

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