11/05/2026
The East African Development Bank (EADB) has announced the establishment of a USD 13 million fund dedicated to supporting youth and women-led enterprises across the East African region, in a move aimed at deepening inclusive financing in the region.
The announcement was made during the recently held Governing Council meeting in Kampala, Uganda.
The announcement comes as the Bank reported strong financial results, posting a 51% increase in profitability. Profit before tax rose to USD 16.93 million for the year ended December 2025, up from USD 11.20 million in the previous financial year.
EADB also recorded significant growth in its lending operations, with disbursements increasing by 140% and outstanding loans at the end of the year increasing by 52%, underscoring improved loan portfolio performance and operational efficiency.
Speaking after the meeting, the outgoing Governing Council Chairperson, Hon. Matia Kasaija attributed the strong performance to the Bank’s enhanced capacity to mobilize capital and deploy innovative financing solutions across diverse sectors.
“This strong performance is a testament to EADB’s enhanced capacity to mobilize resources and deploy innovative financing solutions. In the past year, we supported a more diverse range of projects across key sectors in our member states. We remain committed to delivering on our five-year Strategic Plan as we grow our investment portfolio and deepen our developmental impact in the region” he said.
The Council meeting was attended by Hon. Matia Kasaija, Uganda Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and Chairman of the EADB Governing Council, Hon. Yusuf Murangwa, Rwanda Minister of Finance and Economic Planning and member of EADB Governing Council, Hon. FCPA John Mbadi Ng’ongo EGH, Kenya Cabinet Secretary National Treasury and Economic Planning and member of EADB Governing Council, Hon. Amb. Khamis M***a Omar, United Republic of Tanzania Minister of Finance and member of EADB Governing Council as well as members of the EADB Board of Directors.