I&M Bank Kenya Wins Triple Honour at Global Banking & Finance Awards 2026
- Global recognition underscores the Bank's leadership in digital innovation, retail banking growth and sustainable impact.
Nairobi, Kenya — 8th June 2026 — I&M Bank Kenya has been named winner of three prestigious Global Banking & Finance Awards 2026, cementing its position as one of Kenya's most dynamic and forward-thinking financial institutions. The bank has been recognised as:
- Best Bank for Digital Banking Services — Kenya 2026
- Fastest Growing Retail Bank — Kenya 2026
- Best Bank CSR Initiative (Ngong Road Forest Restoration Project) — Kenya 2026
The awards, conferred by Global Banking & Finance Review, a leading independent international financial intelligence and media platform, are among the most recognised benchmarks of excellence in global banking.
The recognition as Best Bank for Digital Banking Services- Kenya 2026 affirms I&M Bank's sustained investment in technology-driven banking solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of Kenyan customers. Through continuous enhancement of its mobile and internet banking platforms, the bank has made it simpler, faster and more secure for customers to manage their finances from wherever they are.
Commenting on the award, I&M Bank Kenya Acting CEO, Kihara Maina said, "This award reflects our commitment to building a banking experience that is simple, secure and relevant for today's customer. We continue to invest in technology and innovation that empower individuals and businesses to bank seamlessly wherever they are. Being recognized as Kenya's Best Bank for Digital Banking Services affirms that our digital transformation journey is creating meaningful value for our customers."
On his part, Director of Retail & Business Banking, Shameer Patel spoke on growth strategy and customer acquisition milestones. "Our retail growth is a direct result of the trust customers place in us and our focus on delivering solutions that meet their evolving financial needs. We have continued to expand access to banking through customer-centric products, enhanced service delivery and a growing distribution network. This recognition validates our strategy of putting customers at the centre of everything we do."
Perhaps most distinctive among this year's honours is the recognition of I&M Bank's Ngong Road Forest Restoration Project, executed through the I&M Foundation, as the Best Bank CSR Initiative- Kenya 2026. The project reflects the bank's conviction that a thriving business and a thriving environment are inseparable. Through large-scale tree planting, community engagement and long-term forest management in the Ngong Road Forest Reserve, I&M Bank and the I&M Foundation have contributed meaningfully to Nairobi's urban green cover, biodiversity and the livelihoods of communities that depend on the forest.
Speaking on the project's impact and the Bank's ESG commitments, I&M Sustainability Lead, Dipna Shah, said, "At I&M Bank, sustainability is not a standalone initiative, it is embedded in how we create long-term value. The Ngong Road Forest Restoration Project demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when businesses, communities and conservation partners work together towards a shared purpose. We are proud to contribute to restoring critical ecosystems while creating lasting environmental and social benefits for future generations."
These accolades reflect I&M Bank's continued pursuit of excellence across every aspect of its business, from digital innovation and customer experience to sustainable development and community impact. Together, they reinforce the Bank's ambition to be the most trusted financial partner for customers while contributing meaningfully to Kenya's economic and social progress.
Since 2011, the Global Banking & Finance Awards have been regarded as one of the most reputable and respected international award programmes, celebrating innovation, leadership and achievement across banking, finance, fintech and broader financial services industries. Winners are selected through a transparent, research-based and merit-driven process covering institutions across more than 150 countries.
ENDS
About I&M Bank Limited
I&M Bank is a leading Tier 1 commercial bank headquartered in Kenya, offering a comprehensive range of corporate, business and personal banking solutions. The Bank is part of I&M Group PLC, a regional financial services group listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange with operations across Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda and Mauritius.
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Yvonne Nkirote
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