Absa Bank Kenya announced that Yusuf Omari has been appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, with the appointment taking effect immediately.

The board disclosed the decision on 10 September 2026 after securing the required regulatory and internal approvals.

Omari has been serving in an interim capacity since 1 July 2026.

Omari’s two‑decade tenure at Absa Kenya

He spent 17 years as the bank’s Chief Financial Officer, a role he assumed in 2009, overseeing finance, treasury, risk, governance, strategy and transformation.

As CFO, Omari is credited with improving the bank’s cost‑to‑income ratio, strengthening its capital position and supporting growth in corporate, business and consumer banking units.

He also advanced digital transformation and ecosystem‑banking projects during his tenure.

Omari holds a degree in Economics, an MBA, is a Fellow of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya and completed the Advanced Management Programme jointly run by Strathmore University and IESE Business School.

Strategic focus under the new CEO

Omari said his priority will be deepening customer relationships, accelerating sustainable growth and investing in the bank’s people and capabilities.

Board Chairman Mohammed Nyaoga cited Omari’s track record and familiarity with the Kenyan market as reasons for the board’s confidence.

Saviour Chibiya, Absa Group’s Regional Executive for East Africa, described Omari as a highly accomplished leader who embodies the group’s values of excellence, integrity and performance.