Company history

Bank of Kigali was incorporated in the Republic of Rwanda on December 22nd 1966 as a joint venture between the Government of Rwanda and Belgolaise, the subsidiary of Fortis Bank.

The public private partnership involved the ownership of 50% of the ordinary share capital. The bank commenced its operations in 1967, serving as one of the then market leader in banking sector.

Following Fortis Bank strategy of withdrawing its operations in Africa in 2005, the Government of Rwanda acquired the Belgolaise share in 2007, thus increasing its direct and indirect shareholding in the Bank to 100%.

In compliance with revised laws relating to private companies in Rwanda, in 2011 the Bank changed its name from Bank of Kigali S.A to Bank of Kigali Limited and to BK Group PLC in 2017 with 3 subsidiary companies namely BK General Insurance, BK TecHouse and BK Capital.

Bank of Kigali’s growth over the last five decades is a true story of resilience, hard work and strong partnerships based on Rwandan values. Below are important milestones on the Bank’s history.

Bank of Kigali got award as Best Bank in Rwanda in 2022 by Global Finance Awards

Bank of Kigali got award as Best Bank in Rwanda in year 2013, 2015, 2016, 2021 & 2022 by EUROMONEY AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCY

BK was ranked as Best East African Bank in year 2012, 2015 & 2016 and awarded by AFRICAN BANKER

Year 2009 up to 2014 and 2016 Bank of Kigali was awarded as Best Bank in Rwanda by EMEAFINANCE

Year 2009- 2012, 2014, 2015 & 2016 Bank of Kigali got THE AFRICAN BANKER AWARDS

The rating reflects the Bank’s established domestic franchise value, strong capital position, its systemic importance, strong asset quality and financial performance.

  • Opened 23 New Branch
  • The bank signed a US$20 million dollar credit line and a €6 million sub-risk participation fund with the French Development Agency.

The Bank signed a €5 million credit line agreement with European Investment Bank for private sector SME lending.

  • Opened branches around the country
  • Started offering Western Union international money transfers in 2000
  • 2005, the bank launched internet banking services
  • 2008, the Bank’s modern headquarters in Kigali city center was completed