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Access Bank Botswana has strengthened its global standing after clinching three major international awards in recognition of its digital innovation, customer-focused solutions and commitment to social development.

The bank, a subsidiary of Access Bank Group, was honoured with the Best Digital Banking Initiative, Botswana at The Digital Banker Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards 2025 for its SalaryAdvance product — a fully digital, short-term credit facility that provides salaried customers with instant access to up to 200 per cent of their monthly income through mobile app and USSD.

The solution, celebrated for its convenience, transparent pricing and automated repayment structure, has been widely praised for advancing financial inclusion and deepening customer engagement across Botswana.

Access Bank Botswana also received two additional honours at the Global Banking & Finance Awards®:

– Best Bank for Digital Transformation, Botswana 2025, in recognition of its Women Banking Initiative (W Initiative), which supports women professionals and entrepreneurs through customised financial products, capacity building and financial literacy; and

– Best CSR Programme for Employee Engagement, Botswana 2025, for its robust corporate social responsibility framework driven by staff involvement in health, education, entrepreneurship, youth empowerment and environmental sustainability.

Bank employees were particularly commended for participating in nationwide clean-up exercises under the World Clean Up campaign, as well as youth and education-focused outreach programmes aimed at enhancing long-term social wellbeing.

Reacting to the announcement, Managing Director of Access Bank Botswana, Sheperd Aisam, said the accolades highlight the bank’s commitment to digital transformation and impactful banking.

“These awards affirm our journey of transformation and purpose-driven innovation,” he said.

“Through digital excellence and a strong CSR foundation, we are redefining what it means to be a modern, inclusive bank — one that empowers individuals, businesses and communities to thrive.”

The awards add to the institution’s growing list of international recognitions. In 2024, Access Bank Botswana received multiple honours, including Best Bank for Digital Transformation, Botswana for initiatives such as nano loans, bank-to-wallet services and early SalaryAdvance features; the Visa Best Payments Collaborator Award for remittance solutions; and XH Smart Banking Partner of the Year for prepaid card innovations.

With the latest achievements, Access Bank Botswana further cements its reputation as one of Africa’s most progressive financial institutions, aligning with Access Bank Group’s broader vision to become the world’s most respected African bank — offering more than traditional banking and creating opportunities that help communities flourish.