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Access Bank Zambia has been named Best CSR Bank and Best Bank for SME Banking in Zambia for 2025 at the 13th Global Brands Magazine Awards, the bank said on Tuesday, citing the recognition as a reflection of its ongoing work in community investment and support for small businesses.
Managing Director and Chief Executive, Officer Iheanyi Nwogu, said the bank’s engagement with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remained a key part of its operations. He added that its community programmes were aimed at addressing gaps in health, education, entrepreneurship and environmental sustainability.
As part of its health initiatives, the lender has supported renovations at the University Teaching Hospital BO3 Maternity Ward, which reportedly serves more than 20,000 women annually. The bank also partnered with health organisations to conduct cervical cancer screenings for thousands of women in an effort to improve early detection rates.
This is contained in a statement issued in Lusaka by Head of Corporate Communications, Alice Kalufyanya-Mwila, on Tuesday.
In education and youth empowerment, she said the bank worked with universities to offer mentorship programmes, financial literacy training and career development opportunities.
According to her, Its SME capacity-building initiatives include business management training and advisory services intended to help entrepreneurs strengthen their operations and improve their access to finance.
Kalufyanya-Mwila said the bank’s environmental programme, implemented through the Imiti Ikula Initiative, focuses on sustainability and youth engagement.
She said thousands of trees were planted last year through activities involving children aged 6 to 16 under the Early Savers Academy, which also introduces basic financial literacy.
Kalufyanya-Mwila also highlighted that its Employee Volunteering Programme mobilised staff to participate in community projects that the bank said reached thousands people in 2025. The institution also continues to support cultural and sporting events through sponsorships.
The awards recognise global organisations for performance, innovation and leadership. The bank said it would continue expanding its operations and community programmes across Zambia.
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