CAIRO, May 23 – The African Export-Import Bank reported first-quarter profit of $268.9 million for 2026, supported by stronger lending activity and higher interest income as the institution continued efforts to strengthen trade and economic development across Africa.
Profit for the three months ended March 31 increased from $215.4 million recorded during the same period in 2025, according to the bank.
The improvement came as net interest income rose 24% to $510 million, compared with $411.2 million in the corresponding period last year.
Afreximbank said average loans and advances reached approximately $32 billion during the quarter, representing an 8% increase year-on-year and contributing significantly to overall earnings growth.
The bank maintained that asset quality remained resilient despite continued uncertainty across global markets.
Its non-performing loan ratio stood at 2.40% during the quarter, broadly stable compared with 2.43% reported during the 2025 financial year and remaining below broader industry averages.
The institution’s balance sheet also expanded during the period.
Total liabilities increased to $33.9 billion from $33.0 billion recorded at the end of the previous financial year, while shareholders’ funds rose to $8.6 billion from $8.4 billion.
The results come amid heightened geopolitical tensions, tighter global financial conditions and continued economic volatility affecting many developing markets.
Denys Denya said the bank’s performance reflected disciplined risk management and the resilience of its operating model.
According to Denya, stronger profitability and lending growth demonstrate the continued relevance of Afreximbank’s development mandate during periods of economic stress.
He also highlighted the institution’s recently launched $10 billion Gulf Crisis Response Programme, describing it as part of the bank’s counter-cyclical approach to supporting member states during periods of external disruption.
Afreximbank said it remains focused on supporting trade flows, easing liquidity pressures and advancing industrialization efforts across Africa and the Caribbean.
The latest results reinforce the bank’s growing role as one of the continent’s largest development finance institutions as governments and businesses continue seeking financing support amid a challenging global environment.
