Standard Bank Group has named Dr. Joshua Oigara as Regional Chief Executive (RCE) for East Africa, effective September 1, 2025.
He will continue to serve as Chief Executive of Stanbic Bank Kenya, a role he has held since December 2022. The appointment is subject to regulatory approval.
“Dr. Oigara brings deep market expertise and a proven track record of transformative leadership across East Africa,” the Group said in a statement.
Proven Leadership Across Banking and Policy
Dr. Oigara rose to prominence as Group CEO of KCB Group between 2013 and 2022, becoming the youngest chief executive of a Nairobi Securities Exchange-listed bank at age 37. During his tenure, he spearheaded regional expansion and digital innovation, significantly boosting profitability and financial inclusion.
His earlier career includes senior roles at Bamburi Cement, Bidco Africa, and PricewaterhouseCoopers. Since joining Stanbic, he has consolidated the Kenyan business, enhancing its market relevance and profitability.
Beyond banking, Oigara has served two terms as Chairman of the Kenya Bankers Association Governing Council and remains an active council member. He also played a national role on the Vision 2030 Delivery Board and was named one of Africa’s top 25 leaders by the Financial Times.
“Dr. Oigara continues to champion progress toward improved stability, accessibility, and inclusivity in the banking sector,” Standard Bank noted.
Leadership Transition: Mweheire to Continue in Senior Role
Patrick Mweheire, the outgoing RCE for East Africa, will conclude his five-year tenure on August 31, 2025. He remains a Senior Executive within Standard Bank Group and will continue as Chief Executive of Stanbic Kenya Holdings.
“Patrick has been instrumental in organically growing our East African franchise into the second most profitable regional bank,” the Group stated. “His contributions have been invaluable, and we look forward to his continued impact.”
Succession Signals at Group Level
The timing of Oigara’s elevation aligns with a broader succession horizon at Standard Bank Group. Group CEO Sim Tshabalala and CFO Arno Daehnke are expected to retire by 2027, creating a two-year window to groom internal candidates.
With expanded oversight across East Africa, Oigara enters the conversation as a potential contender for the Group’s top leadership.
“His success in this new role will determine whether he becomes one of the first East African bankers to seriously contend for leadership of Africa’s largest bank by assets,” analysts note.
Strategic Intent
The appointment underscores Standard Bank’s commitment to strengthening its East African franchise and leveraging internal talent to drive regional growth.
“We are investing in leadership that understands the region and can translate ambition into measurable financial returns,” said a senior executive familiar with the transition.
