NMB makes history with “Africa’s Best Bank for Sustainability” honour

By A Special Correspondent

In a historic achievement for Tanzania’s financial sector, NMB Bank PLC has secured six major international awards, including the prestigious title of Africa’s Best Bank for Sustainability.

NMB Bank CEO Ruth Zaipuna (2nd left) receives one of the six international awards from Chief Treasurer Azizi Chacha (centre) at the bank’s headquarters in Dar es Salaam. Looking on are Chief of Wholesale Banking Alfred Shao (right), Chief Finance Officer Juma Kimori (2nd right), and Chief Credit Officer Nishad Jinah.

The awards, presented by Euromoney magazine of London and the Global Banking & Finance Magazine of the United States, mark a milestone in the bank’s journey and highlight its leadership in sustainable finance and banking excellence.

The standout accolade, awarded at the Euromoney Private Banking Awards 2025  in London, marks the first time a Tanzanian bank has been recognized at a continental level for sustainability – an area of growing global importance in finance.

“We are honoured to be recognised for our leadership in sustainable finance and private banking,” said Ms Ruth Zaipuna, CEO of NMB Bank, during a press briefing in Dar es Salaam. “These six awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teams, the trust of our clients, and our commitment to building a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for our country.”

Apart from the African crown, the other accolades include Tanzania’s Best Bank for Sustainability and Tanzania’s Best Private Bank (for the third consecutive year) from Euromoney.

From Global Banking & Finance Magazine, NMB Bank was recognized as the Safest Bank in Tanzania, Best Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative – Tanzania 2025 and Best Banking CEO – Tanzania 2025 (awarded to CEO Ruth Zaipuna).

Commenting on the triumph, Ms Zaipuna noted that NMB Bank views sustainability not just as a corporate obligation, but as a strategic necessity that drives resilience, innovation, and long-term value.

The Safest Bank in Tanzania recognition reflects NMB’s investment in cutting-edge technology and cybersecurity, supporting the trust of over 8.6 million customers who rely on the bank’s financial stability.

“This award is a direct result of our strategic investments in innovation and robust security,” Ms Zaipuna said. “We will continue to invest in technology and in our people to meet the evolving demands of our valued customers.”

Euromoney’s Editor-in-Chief, Ms Louise Bowman, also commended the bank, stating: “NMB Bank has established itself as Tanzania’s and Africa’s leading sustainable institution through strategic initiatives that balance environmental responsibility, social impact, and financial growth.”

With this latest recognition, the lender cements its reputation as a champion of sustainable finance and a model of excellence in Africa’s banking sector.