Abay Bank S.C. today commemorated its 15th Anniversary, marking a journey defined by resilience, innovation, and transformative service in Ethiopia’s banking landscape.
Delivering the keynote address during a press event at Hyatt Regency Hotel, Abay Bank’s CEO Ato Yehuala Gessesse, remarked that the Bank began with an initial capital of just Birr 125.8 million, backed by 823 visionary shareholders. Today, that vision has multiplied, with over 4,500 shareholders and a paid-up capital of Birr 7 billion—a testament to the enduring trust and belief in its purpose.
Abay Bank was granted its operating license by the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) on July 14, 2010, and commenced operations in November 2010 being the 13th participant in the banking sector. Since that pivotal moment, the Bank has impressively expanded its national footprint to 555 branches, reinforcing its presence across Ethiopia.
By the close of the 2024/25 fiscal year, Abay Bank’s total assets surpassed Birr 91 billion. Notably, deposit mobilization witnessed a remarkable 37% year-on-year surge, reaching Birr 72 billion, while total loans and advances extended to various economic sectors climbed to Birr 47.4 billion. Consequently, the Bank’s total annual income grew by a whopping 95% to hit Birr 16.2 billion.
In a strong nod to innovation, the CEO also highlighted that 57% of the Bank’s transactions are now fully digital, underscoring Abay Bank’s ongoing commitment to modernization and customer convenience. Throughout its impactful 15-year journey, Abay has remained deeply committed to CSR, actively contributing to a wide array of meaningful causes nationwide.
In just the past fiscal year alone, the Bank granted over Birr 50 million in support of initiatives that uplift communities and foster inclusive development. Equally significant is Abay’s role in employment generation. Today, the Bank proudly engages more than 10,000 professionals — a dynamic mix of permanent and outsourced talent — whose dedication has helped shape an expansive and loyal customer base of over 4 million.
The CEO highlighted that the upcoming celebration will not be a static occasion, but rather a months-long activation designed to engage customers, inspire employees, and connect with the wider public and key stakeholders. He further commented that this celebration is about people, about creating moments that honor the Bank’s brighter beginnings, and boldly point to its journey to greatness.
The celebration campaign will launch with a nationwide Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony activation across all branches, adorned with festive decorations and commemorative posters. Other planned events include tree planting initiatives, blood donation drives, multi-platform advertising efforts, and a grand gala event slated for late November 2025.
