I&M Group: From a Financial Institution to a Community Partner

I&M Group PLC’s story is one that spans over seven decades, growing from humble beginnings into a financial powerhouse across Eastern Africa. You might recognise their name from the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), where they’ve been a listed company for many years. But what you might not know is how deeply rooted they are in the region and how they’ve built a legacy that goes beyond banking.

The journey dates back to 1950, when they were first incorporated as City Trust Limited (CTL). Fast forward to 2013, and a major transformation happened. Through a reverse takeover by I&M Bank, CTL became what we know today as I&M Group PLC. Now, they operate in five countries: Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Mauritius and are regulated by both the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) and the Central Bank of Kenya. The I&M Group has steadily grown over the years while keeping their community-focused values intact.

The Heart of I&M: Making a Difference Through the I&M Foundation

The I&M Group is commited to making a difference. Alongside their responsibilities as banks, they have created the I&M Foundation, which is all about giving back. Every year, they put 2% of their profit before tax is channelled towards programs that create lasting changes in people’s lives. One of their biggest passions is education, and they have made it clear with their flagship project: St. Ann Suresh Raja Girls’ High School in Kenya. This project was built to cater for young girls from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them the chance at a brighter future. The Foundation also offers scholarships and partners with institutions like Strathmore University and Moringa School to open doors for even more students.

Sustainability and Empowerment: Where Their Impact Shines

For I&M Group, education isn’t the only focus. They’ve made it a mission to support global goals like affordable and clean energy, fighting climate change, and protecting our land and ecosystems. They have made it a responsibility to ensure future generations have a healthy and thriving environment. 

On the other hand, they empower small businesses (MSMEs) to get off the ground. Their programs focus on training entrepreneurs, providing them with resources, and creating opportunities for sustainable income generation. They’re particularly passionate about supporting women, knowing that empowering women in business can ripple out to entire communities, helping to reduce poverty and inequality.

The story of I&M Group is one of growth, resilience, and a deep commitment to the communities they serve. They’ve shown that being a leading bank isn’t just about profits but making impacts. With their commitment to ensuring everyone has a chance to succeed, whether it’s through education, a cleaner environment, or supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs, they have positioned themselves as one of the leading banks making an impact in East Africa.