Equity Raises Dividend to Kshs. 21.7 Billion from Kshs. 16.04 Billion as Shareholders Back New Insurance Subsidiaries

Equity Group Holdings Plc shareholders have approved all proposed resolutions tabled at the 22nd Annual General Meeting (AGM), including dividend payout, board appointments, and an expansion into insurance markets in Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The AGM, held electronically, saw shareholders adopt the audited financial statements for the year ended 31st December 2025, together with the Chairman’s, Directors’ and Auditors’ reports, highlighting the continued confidence in the Group’s performance and strategic direction.

Shareholders approved a first and final dividend of Kshs. 21.70 billion (Kshs. 5.75 per share) for the financial year ended 31st December 2025, representing a 35.5% increase from the Kshs. 16.04 billion (Kshs. 4.25 per share) distributed in respect of the 2024 financial year. The dividend will be paid on or about 30th June 2026 to shareholders on the Company’s Register at close of business on 22nd May 2026.

Shareholders also approved, as special business resolutions, the incorporation of three new insurance subsidiaries through the Group’s holding structure, Equity Group Insurance Holdings Limited, subject to regulatory approvals. The plan includes the incorporation of a microinsurance company in Kenya with capital of Kshs. 192 million, as well as incorporation of two insurance subsidiaries in the DRC; a life insurance company with USD 12 million capital and a general insurance company with USD 13.37 million capital. The Board was authorized to take all necessary steps to operationalise the new businesses.

Equity Group Chairman Prof. Isaac Macharia said the approvals reflect strong shareholder confidence in the Group’s governance and long-term strategy as per the Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan (ARRP).

“The approvals received today reflect our shareholders’ confidence in Equity’s strategy and oversight. We remain committed to strong governance, prudent stewardship, and delivering sustainable value; by building an institution that expands opportunities for our customers and strengthens resilience across our markets,” he said.

Equity Group Managing Director and CEO, Dr. James Mwangi said the insurance expansion strengthens the Group’s ability to deliver integrated financial services across the region.

“Equity continues to pursue growth anchored on innovation, regional presence, and solutions that protect and advance livelihoods. The approvals to expand our insurance footprint strengthen our ability to offer more holistic financial services that help customers and communities manage risk, build resilience, and plan confidently for the future,” he said

On governance, shareholders approved all board resolutions presented at the meeting. This included the re-election of Prof. Isaac Macharia, Mr. Jonas Mushosho, Dr. Evanson Baiya, and Mrs. Farida Khambata as Directors of the Company. Shareholders also approved the appointment of Dr. Eliane Ubalijoro as a Director, subject to receipt of requisite regulatory approvals.

The AGM also approved the appointment of Ernst & Young as the Company’s external auditors until the conclusion of the next AGM.

Looking ahead, Equity Group remains focused on advancing financial inclusion, strengthening governance, and delivering meaningful impact by supporting households and enterprises across the region through accessible, customer-centric financial solutions.

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