More customers of Equity Group are now choosing to bank through digital channels instead of visiting physical branches, highlighting the lender’s rapid shift towards technology-driven financial services across East and Central Africa.
The group’s Quarter One 2026 investor briefing shows that digital banking has become the preferred way for customers to access services, with 98.3% of all transactions now completed outside banking halls. Of these, 89.5% are processed through the bank’s digital platforms.
Equity Group said the figures demonstrate growing customer confidence in its digital banking ecosystem, as more people opt for faster and more convenient ways to manage their finances.
In Uganda, Equity Bank serves about two million customer accounts through a network of 50 branches, 58 ATMs, 9,316 banking agents and more than 50,000 merchants spread across the country.
The extensive agent and merchant network allows customers, especially those in areas without nearby branches, to deposit, withdraw and access other banking services from authorised local businesses.
The bank says the digital transformation is being supported by a dedicated Technology Group established late last year to strengthen its banking systems, modernise payment platforms and improve data analytics and risk management.
Equity Group Managing Director Dr James Mwangi said the lender is investing heavily in technology and its workforce to prepare for the future.
“We are building a future-ready institution that is scalable, secure and impact-led, anchored in digital capabilities, staff upskilling and a culture of disciplined execution,” Mwangi said.
As part of that strategy, the group has rolled out large-scale training programmes in artificial intelligence and digital skills for employees across its operations, although it did not disclose how many staff in Uganda have benefited.
The increased adoption of digital banking has coincided with strong financial performance for the regional lender. Equity Group, which operates in six African countries and serves 22.7 million customers, reported a 24% increase in profit after tax to Shs548 billion during the first quarter of 2026.
