Standard Bank Group has announced strategic leadership changes within its Africa Regions business, underscoring its commitment to accelerating growth, strengthening regional operations, and driving innovation across its franchises. The appointments take effect on September 1, 2025, pending regulatory approval.
Dr. Joshua Oigara has been appointed Regional Chief Executive (RCE) for East Africa while continuing to serve as the Chief Executive of Stanbic Bank Kenya, a position he has held since December 2022. With decades of experience in financial services and a track record of transformative leadership, Dr. Oigara is expected to play a central role in steering Standard Bank’s East Africa strategy.
Previously, Dr. Oigara led a major regional bank in East Africa, where he championed digitization, financial inclusion, and policy innovation in collaboration with regulators and industry stakeholders. His initiatives have significantly shaped the banking sector’s evolution across the region.
“Dr. Oigara’s deep market expertise and commitment to innovation make him the ideal leader to drive our growth ambitions in East Africa,” the Group said in a statement.
Dr. Oigara has made substantial contributions to Kenya’s and the region’s financial sector:
- Served two terms as Chairman of the Kenya Bankers Association Governing Council and remains an active council member.
- Spearheaded technology-driven banking solutions that boosted financial accessibility and efficiency.
- Contributed to national development as a Director of the Vision 2030 Delivery Board, supporting Kenya’s industrialization goals.
- Named among Africa’s Top 25 Leaders by the Financial Times for his impact on transformative leadership.
Patrick Mweheire, the outgoing Regional Chief Executive for East Africa, will conclude his five-year tenure on August 31, 2025. He will remain Chief Executive of Stanbic Kenya Holdings and continue serving as a Senior Executive within the Standard Bank Group.
Under Patrick’s leadership, Stanbic’s East African operations achieved significant milestones, including becoming the second most profitable regional franchise within the Group and strengthening collaboration across markets.
“Patrick’s leadership has been instrumental in building a well-positioned East African franchise, and we are grateful for his invaluable contributions,” the Group said.
With this transition, Standard Bank Group is reinforcing its long-term strategy to drive growth, empower clients, and expand its presence across the East African region.
