Merger of Equity Bank Congo (EBC) and the Banque Commerciale du Congo (BCDC), these two financial institutions of the Democratic Republic of Congo now form a single bank, which aims to serve large investors and small people in a country where banking remains among the lowest in Africa.
The unveiling of the new branding took place this Thursday, February 11 at the headquarters of this bank on Lumumba Boulevard. For the CEO of this bank, the BCDC has brought its experience of more than 112 years in the banking sector, it has weathered as many storms and has managed to hold its own, while Equity Bank for its part brings all its youth but with achievements that have put everyone in agreement.
‘’The brand we are launching today, which is a merger of two brands, represents resilience and courage, and we want the DRC government to be a signatory to it and hold us accountable. And our responsibility is financial inclusion, to open the door to all and leave no one on the sidelines. We will be the bank for the mining sector, private banking and industries. We will also be the bank for the middle class banks that are creating the opportunities to develop the people. We will also be the bank for all those who have a dream and think they can realise it through financial support, » said the CEO of this new and at the same time old bank.
With a capital of 2.7 billion USD, Equity BCDC now presents itself as a real partner of investors, of small people and of course also of the Congolese state. With this bank, investors can obtain a loan of up to USD 40 million. It therefore remains very open for anyone with a bankable project and this is a hope in a context where financial inclusion in the DRC remains a real headache.
The satisfaction is great for all those who have invested themselves to make it happen. Among them, the former Director of Equity Bank, whose management is praised by all. « This launch marks a historic event in our country, when two legendary banks with diverse strengths came together to form a bigger and stronger bank for the Congolese people. The new bank has the capacity, the blend of talent, the experience and the vision to make banking services affordable and accessible to every household in the Democratic Republic of Congo, » said Celestin Mutena, former Director of Equity Bank.
The merger of Equity Bank and BCC is therefore, as English speakers say, a big deal for a country like the Democratic Republic of Congo. The country will benefit greatly from it. The Congolese state is therefore very willing to support this big deal, the advent of which is sure to change the country’s financial market and move the Central African market even more.
‘’The government is committed to guaranteeing legal, judicial and even physical security. The respect of the texts, this will not be revised at any time, » said the Congolese portfolio minister.
JAM