KCB Group has reported a strong financial performance for the first six months of 2026, recording KSh49.3 billion in profit before tax, a 20.8 per cent increase compared with the same period last year.
The lender attributed the growth to higher income across its businesses and continued efforts to control operating costs.
KCB’s assets cross KSh2.3 trillion
The group’s balance sheet continued to expand during the period, with total assets rising by 16.8 per cent to KSh2.3 trillion.
Customer deposits increased to approximately KSh1.7 trillion, while gross loans grew to KSh1.3 trillion, reflecting continued demand for credit from households and businesses.
KCB also reported an improvement in the quality of its loan book. Gross non-performing loans fell by KSh17.3 billion to KSh203.8 billion, which the group attributed partly to tighter credit risk management and efforts to rehabilitate distressed loans.
Income rises to KSh108.1 billion
KCB’s total income increased by 9.5 per cent to KSh108.1 billion during the six-month period.
Non-funded income recorded particularly strong growth, rising to KSh34.1 billion, while funded income reached KSh74 billion.
The group’s operations outside Kenya continued to make a significant contribution. Regional banking subsidiaries accounted for 27.7 per cent of KCB Group’s profit before tax and 31.1 per cent of its total balance sheet.
Shareholders to receive KSh9.64 billion interim dividend
KCB’s strong results will also benefit shareholders.
The group’s board has recommended an interim dividend of KSh3 per share, up from KSh2 per share paid in 2025.
The payout translates to a total interim dividend distribution of approximately KSh9.64 billion.
The higher dividend represents a 50 per cent increase from last year’s interim payment.
Equity grows to KSh357 billion
KCB’s shareholders’ equity also strengthened during the period, increasing by 16.3 per cent from KSh306.8 billion to KSh357 billion.
The group said the results demonstrate the resilience of its regional banking model despite what it described as a challenging operating environment.
KCB Group CEO Paul Russo said the lender would continue supporting businesses and households while investing in digital transformation and pursuing long-term growth.
With its assets now above KSh2.3 trillion, improving loan quality and stronger earnings, KCB enters the second half of 2026 with a significantly strengthened financial position.
