I&M Bank Scoops Major Awards for Digital Innovation, Retail Growth and Agriculture Financing
By Archedious Kubai | GoodmoryKenya
Nairobi, Kenya — December 16, 2025
I&M Bank has cemented its position as one of Kenya’s leading financial institutions after receiving multiple prestigious regional and global awards recognizing its strong performance in digital banking, retail growth, payments innovation, and agricultural financing.
The Bank was named Best Digital Bank Kenya 2025, Fastest Growing Retail Bank Kenya 2025, and Best Multi-Currency Prepaid Card Kenya 2025 at the Global Banking and Finance Awards. The trio of accolades underscores I&M Bank’s successful transformation into a digitally driven, customer-centric financial partner for individuals and businesses.
Further affirming its leadership in responsible and impact-driven finance, I&M Bank was also crowned Agri-lender of the Year by Aceli Africa, in recognition of its contribution to expanding access to financing for agricultural SMEs and value-chain players critical to Kenya’s food systems and job creation.
During the 12-month evaluation period, the Bank disbursed USD 12.7 million (approximately Kshs. 1.6 billion) to 264 sustainable agribusinesses, with impact measured across youth and women inclusion, climate resilience, and food security.
Beyond Kenya, I&M’s regional footprint also attracted recognition. I&M Bank Rwanda was named Best SME Bank and Best Retail Bank Rwanda 2025 by Global Banking and Finance Review, reflecting strong customer engagement and market performance. In Uganda, the Bank’s premium offering, I&M Select Banking Sapphire Club, won Best Innovation of the Year at the Marketing Excellence Awards.
Commenting on the achievements, Kihara Maina, I&M Regional CEO and Interim CEO, I&M Bank Kenya, said the awards validate the Bank’s strategic direction and people-driven culture.
“These recognitions are a strong validation of our strategy and our people. Winning across digital innovation, retail growth, operations, and sustainability reflects our ability to deliver real impact for customers and communities. Being named both Best Digital Bank and Agri-lender of the Year in the same year shows that we can innovate for the future while powering the real economy,” he said.
In addition to the Global Banking and Finance Awards, the Bank has continued to build momentum throughout the year. Earlier in
