Equity Bank has maintained its position as Kenya’s most valuable brand in the latest Brand Finance Kenya 25 2026 report which highlights the strength and resilience of the country’s top companies.
The bank’s brand value rose by 4pc to Ksh 73.9 billion marking the third consecutive year it has topped the rankings.
The bank attributes the growth to strong financial performance, continued revenue expansion, and an asset base which has grown to Ksh 1.8 trillion reflecting its sustained regional growth and digital transformation strategy.
The report shows that Kenya’s top 25 brands recorded a 3pc increase in total brand value to Ksh 349 billion, signalling steady economic progress and investor confidence.
Banking remains the dominant sector accounting for 56pc of the total brand value at Ksh 196 billion.
Seven banks made it to the ranking, with six securing spots in the top 10, underlining the sector’s influence on Kenya’s economic landscape.
Brand Finance East Africa Regional Manager Walter Serem said the rankings reflect a market that is becoming increasingly competitive and diversified, with scale, financial performance and regional expansion playing a critical role in shaping brand value.
“Kenya’s brand landscape in 2026 reflects a market that is becoming increasingly competitive, resilient, and strategically diversified. The continued strength of the banking sector highlights the importance of scale, financial performance, and regional expansion in driving brand value,” he said.
Kenya Commercial Bank ranked second, with its brand value rising by 9pc to Ksh 59.7 billion, driven by record profitability.
However, mobile service provider Safaricom dropped in ranking to third place after a 4pc decline in brand value to Ksh 55.7 billion, weighed down by regulatory pressures and the cost of its expansion into Ethiopia.
On the other hand, CIC Insurance Group emerged as the fastest-growing brand, posting a 28pc increase in value, while Tusker retained its position as the strongest brand in the country with an AAA+ rating followed closely by Equity Bank.
Other brands in the top 10 include Co-operative Bank, NCBA, Kenya Power, I&M and Diamond Trust Bank, reinforcing the dominance of financial services and infrastructure players in Kenya’s brand ecosystem.
The latest rankings further cement Equity Bank’s position as a key driver of innovation, financial inclusion and growth in Kenya’s evolving business environment.
