Standard Chartered Completes Exit from Cameroon, Hands Over Operations to Access Bank.
Standard Chartered has successfully completed the transfer of its banking operations in Cameroon to Access Bank Cameroon. This move, confirmed in a statement dated December 5, 2025, marks the final stage of Standard Chartered’s strategic effort to streamline its presence and divest from certain markets across sub Saharan Africa.
The transaction is a critical development for both financial institutions: it allows Standard Chartered to refocus on core strengths, while simultaneously ushering in a new phase of expansion for Access Bank in Central Africa.
Standard Chartered’s Global Realignment Strategy
The divestment from Cameroon aligns with Standard Chartered’s broader global strategy, which was first announced in April 2022. The strategy involves exiting seven markets across Africa and the Middle East following a strategic review of its international operations.
The goal of this realignment, as stated by the bank, is centered on achieving operational efficiencies, reducing complexity, and driving scale in areas where the bank can make the most impact.
Kariuki Ngari, Managing Director and CEO for Kenya, affirmed that the decision allows the bank to deliver these efficiencies and focus on its leading wealth management business.
The successful handover to Access Bank Cameroon completes the divestment process in Cameroon, following earlier successful exits from:
Angola
The Gambia
Tanzania
Sierra Leone
Continued Role in Capital Flows
Despite the onshore exit, Standard Chartered will maintain its role as a bridge for global trade and investment, assuring that it will continue to facilitate international capital flows into Cameroon.
Access Bank’s Central Africa Expansion
The acquisition of the Cameroon business is a major step in Access Bank’s regional expansion strategy. The company is actively growing its footprint, having recently acquired Standard Chartered Tanzania’s Consumer, Private, and Business Banking division just six months prior, in June 2025.
The integration of staff, branches, systems, and clients from Standard Chartered into Access Bank’s network is expected to unlock new opportunities for growth, innovation, and improved banking services, benefiting customers and employees alike. This continuous expansion significantly enhances Access Bank’s capacity to offer inclusive, digitally driven financial services across the continent.
Anna Asonganyi, former Chief Executive of Standard Chartered Cameroon, described the transition as a “pivotal moment” and expressed confidence that customers and employees would continue to enjoy high quality service under Access Bank’s ownership.
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