Best bank 2025: Access Bank
Access Bank has distinguished itself through exceptional contributions to financial inclusion, strong financial performance and leadership in digital banking innovations and sustainability. These multifaceted achievements have merited Access Bank’s award as Gambia’s best bank.
Firstly, Access Bank has catalysed transformational impacts in financial inclusion and support for SMEs, which form the backbone of the Gambia’s economy. By successfully onboarding 8,125 SMEs and disbursing D165 million ($2.28 million) in loans at an impressively low non-performing loan rate of 0.02%, the bank has solidified its role as a pivotal financial institution. The bank’s revenue from these operations reached D139 million.
The introduction of bespoke SME products and services, focus on capacity-building programmes tailored towards youth and women entrepreneurs, and partnerships with local entities to train over 3,150 entrepreneurs underscore its commitment to community engagement and economic empowerment.
The second notable achievement is its robust financial performance and strengthened market leadership. Over the past year, Access Bank reported a 34% growth in loans and 30% growth in deposits, illustrating significant market trust and consumer confidence.
The bank’s profit before tax surged by 20% to D133.8 million, complemented by a remarkably high capital adequacy ratio of 51%, which considerably exceeds the regulatory benchmarks.
Lastly, Access Bank is pioneering in terms of digital banking and environmental and social governance (ESG). Initiatives such as renewable energy loans, mangrove restoration projects, and advancement in disability-inclusive facilities illustrate their dedication to sustainable development.
In digital transformation, Access Bank introduced several platforms like Access More and Primus+, which have handled 1,406 transactions valued at D1.43 billion, and is gearing up for future innovations including virtual cards and diaspora banking services.
These accomplishments not only reinforce Access Bank’s leadership position in the Gambian banking sector but also demonstrate its profound and enduring commitment to fostering economic growth and sustainability within the region.
