Equity Group Shareholders Approve Ksh 21.7 Billion Dividend and Insurance Expansion Plan

Equity Group Holdings Plc shareholders have approved a Ksh 21.70 billion dividend payout and expansion into insurance markets in Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as well as key governance resolutions during the company’s 22nd Annual General Meeting (AGM).

The shareholders approved a first and final dividend of Ksh 5.75 per share for the financial year ended December 31, 2025, marking a 35.5% increase from the Ksh 16.04 billion, or Ksh 4.25 per share, distributed in respect of the 2024 financial year.

“Shareholders approve a Ksh 21.70 billion (Ksh 5.75 per share) dividend for the year ended 31st December 2025, representing a 35.5% increase from the Ksh 16.04 billion (Ksh 4.25 per share) distributed in respect of the 2024 financial year,” the company said.

“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,” Equity Group stated.

The AGM, held electronically, saw shareholders adopt audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025, together with reports from the Chairman, Directors, and Auditors, with the company saying the approvals reflected continued confidence in its performance and strategic direction.

“Members also approved incorporation of new insurance subsidiaries in Kenya and the DRC, subject to regulatory approvals,” the company announced.

Equity Insurance Expansion Across Kenya and DRC

The approved expansion will be undertaken through Equity Group Insurance Holdings Limited and includes the creation of a microinsurance company in Kenya with a capital of Ksh 192 million.

“The plan includes the incorporation of a microinsurance company in Kenya with capital of Ksh 192 million, as well as the incorporation of two insurance subsidiaries in the DRC: a life insurance company with USD 12 million capital and a general insurance company with USD 13.7 million capital,” Equity Group said.

“The Board was authorised to take all necessary steps to operationalise the new businesses,” the company added.

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Equity Group Chairman Isaac Macharia said the approvals demonstrated shareholder confidence in the institution’s long-term strategy under 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,” Macharia said.

Governance Changes and Future Strategy

Equity Group Managing Director and CEO James Mwangi said the insurance expansion would strengthen the group’s ability to provide 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,” Mwangi said.

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On governance, shareholders approved all board resolutions presented at the meeting, including the re-election of Isaac Macharia, Jonas Mushosho, Evanson Baya, and 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 company stated.

The AGM further 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,” the company concluded.

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One of the Equity Group Holdings Plc bank buildings in Kenya. PHOTO/ File