DTB Kenya Exits Burundi After Selling 83.67% Stake to Local Investors

Diamond Trust Bank Kenya Limited has exited the Burundian market after selling its entire stake in DTB Burundi S.A. to a group of local investors, marking the end of its operations in the Central African country.

In a public notice, the bank confirmed the completion of the transaction following regulatory approval from the Bank of the Republic of Burundi.

The board stated, signalling the closure of the deal, that the sale of DTB Kenya’s entire shareholding in DTB Burundi has since been completed.

Furthermore, the lender disclosed that it transferred 83.67 percent of the total issued share capital to investors based in Burundi, including minority shareholders.

“DTB Kenya transferred its entire shareholding in DTB Burundi… to a consortium of investors principally based in Burundi,” the Bank said.

This move now places ownership and control firmly in local hands.

The bank added that the subsidiary officially ceased to be part of its group at the end of last year.

“DTB Burundi accordingly ceased to be a subsidiary of DTB Kenya effective 31 December 2025. However, the institution will continue operating from its headquarters in Bujumbura despite the ownership change,” DTB added.

Strategic Realignment

Meanwhile, the exit reflects a broader shift in strategy as regional banks reassess cross-border operations.

DTB Kenya has continued to streamline its footprint in response to changing market conditions and regulatory demands.

By divesting from Burundi, the bank now sharpens its focus on core markets where it sees stronger growth potential.

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At the same time, the board emphasized that it followed all legal requirements throughout the transaction.

It noted that the announcement complies with the Capital Markets Act and disclosure regulations that govern listed companies in Kenya.

Compliance and Final Closure

In addition, the bank confirmed that it has now withdrawn earlier cautionary statements issued during the transaction period.

“This announcement… follows the earlier cautionary statements issued pending completion of the Transaction, which are now withdrawn.” The notice clarified.

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The communication, approved by the Capital Markets Authority, was signed by Company Secretary Stephen Kodumbe on behalf of the board.

DTB Kenya’s departure from Burundi comes as lenders across East Africa adjust their regional strategies.

As competition rises and regulations tighten, banks continue to restructure their operations to improve efficiency and strengthen profitability.

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DTB Kenya Managing Director & CEO Murali Natarajan, together with Director of Retail Banking George Otiende, Kitui County CECM for Trade Ms. Rose Mutuku, and CEC for Finance, Economic Planning, and Revenue Management Mr. Peter Mwikya Kilonzo, pose for a photo as they unveil the DTB Kenya plaque during the grand opening of the DTB Kenya branch in Kitui Town. PHOTO/DTB.