Equity Group Holdings Plc has reaffirmed its trajectory toward regional and global leadership following a successful 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM), where shareholders overwhelmingly endorsed key resolutions that will define the organization’s future. With strong support for governance reforms, strategic appointments, and international expansion initiatives, the Group signaled its readiness to scale new heights—both within Africa and beyond.Held virtually and attended by shareholders from around the world, the AGM showcased the Group’s resilience, strategic agility, and bold vision. Shareholders approved a dividend payout of Kshs. 16 billion (approximately UGX 444.9 billion), representing a 34% payout ratio, in line with the Group’s dividend policy. This translates to Kshs. 4.25 (UGX 118) per share, payable by 30th June 2025 to shareholders on the register as of 23rd May 2025.In a move that underscores Equity’s growing global footprint, shareholders gave the green light for the establishment of a Representative Office in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), subject to regulatory approvals. The office is expected to play a pivotal role in bridging business, trade, and investment flows between East and Central Africa and key global markets including the Middle East, India, and Central and South Asia.“This marks a significant strategic step in strengthening regional and global connectivity,” said Prof. Isaac Macharia, Chairman of Equity Group Holdings Plc. “We are not just expanding geographically—we are deepening our institutional capacity to deliver inclusive prosperity. Through enhanced governance, cross-border integration, and sustainability-driven innovation, we are positioning Equity as a truly pan-African financial services group with a global interface.”Governance took center stage at the AGM, with shareholders approving several critical policy frameworks covering director remuneration, stakeholder engagement, transparency, board appointments, and dispute resolution. These enhancements are designed to ensure that Equity continues to lead with integrity, ethical leadership, and global best practices.Further solidifying this governance agenda, the AGM saw the election of several distinguished professionals to the Board. These include Mrs. Farida Khambata, a veteran in emerging markets finance, and Mr. Nick O’Donohoe, a seasoned impact investment leader. Also elected, pending regulatory approvals, were Dr. Aloysius Uche Ordu, Mr. Obadiah Barara, Dr. Lakshmi Shyam-Sunder, and Eng. David Mutombo—all bringing a wealth of experience in development finance, public sector governance, multilateral institutions, and infrastructure management. In addition, shareholders approved the appointment of Dr. Evanson Baiya, among others, to the Board Audit Committee.Dr. James Mwangi, Group Managing Director and CEO, emphasized that these developments signal Equity’s readiness to lead Africa into a new era of opportunity. “Our decision to establish a presence in the UAE is not just about physical expansion. It’s a strategic move to unlock value by connecting Africa to global capital, trade corridors, and investment ecosystems,” he said.He added: “Equity Group’s growth strategy remains rooted in sustainability, innovation, and impact. From MSME financing and education support to clean energy and healthcare, we are building an ecosystem that drives long-term value while transforming lives.”Looking ahead, Equity Group is preparing to operationalize a banking holding company and further scale its presence across the continent. Following the successful integration of Cogebanque into Equity Bank Rwanda, the Group continues to prioritize digital innovation, sustainable finance, and community empowerment as core drivers of its Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan.The post Equity Group Charts Global Growth Path with New UAE Office appeared first on The Insider.