In H1, 2018, the Zimbabwean banking sector realized $176.1 million of net profit, according to data gathered by Ecofin Agency. This represents a record level for the period since 2014.
In addition, there was a significant decrease in the burden of bad debts in the loan portfolio. From the highest level of 20.45% reached in September 2014, it continually dropped to reach 6.22% which is the lowest level since 2011.
Despite these positive figures and a now open economy policy, Zimbabwean banks are still reluctant to grant loans. Consequently, the loan-to-deposit ratio is 43.5 %; the lowest level since June 2017 and below the central bank’s benchmark which is 70%. Some other indicators better explain this fact. Indeed, even though the ratio of bad debts is at its lowest level, it is above the benchmark which is 5%. In addition, credits to the economy, payment advances, and investments represent 62% of banks’ assets. Furthermore, 60% of the deposits are overnight deposits. In this economy that faces serious liquidity challenges, it is partly understandable why loan requests require good risk evaluation.
Idriss Linge
Togolese banks provided 16.2% of WAEMU cross-border credit by September 2025 Regional cross...
Nigerian fintech Paystack launches Paystack Microfinance Bank Bank created after acquiring ...
Nigeria granted Amazon Kuiper a seven-year license starting February 2026 The move opens comp...
Tether partnered with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to strengthen digital asset cyb...
Microfinance deposits in Togo increased by CFA11.9 billion, a 2.7% rise in the second quarter of 2...
Tunisair signed a codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways to expand access to Middle Eastern and Asian destinations. The partnership supports...
Patrick Achi elected president of Côte d’Ivoire’s National Assembly Former prime minister wins 84.98% in 2026–2031 legislature vote RHDP...
Gabon’s BCEG grants 360 million CFA loan to BTF Farming Funding aims to boost poultry, fish and crop production capacity President announces...
South Africa declares national disaster after deadly floods and storms Severe weather kills dozens, damages homes, infrastructure across...
Bamako hosted the first International Festival of African Documentary (FIDAB) from January 16 to 18, 2026, screening 12 African films. UNESCO...
Located at the mouth of the Senegal River, about twenty kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean, Saint-Louis Island holds a distinctive place in the country’s...