ECOBANK GROUP INCOMING CHIEF EXECUTIVE ON MAIDEN VISIT TO KENYA

Mr. Thierry Tanoh, the incoming Group Chief Executive Officer– Designate of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) is in Kenya for a two day visit. The trip marks his first official visit to the country since his appointment in July 2012 effectively taking over from Mr. Arnold Ekpe, who has been at the helm of the bank.

Mr. Ekpe is retiring from the Bank's service but will stay on until end of this year to facilitate a smooth transition.

His visit is viewed as an affirmation of Kenya's role as the financial services hub for East Africa and is a signal of Ecobank Group's focus on its Kenya and East Africa business in general.

Mr. Tanoh, who was introduced to the Bank during its June Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Togo, holds a French certified public accountant qualification and a Masters in Business Administration from the Harvard Business School in the United States, bringing on board knowledge, experience and leadership to achieve all of the company's goals for the future.

While addressing the media at the Bank's head office in Nairobi, Mr. Tanoh affirmed his commitment to help the bank grow further: "I am more than honored to have the opportunity to lead this important bank. We have everything we need to be a leader in provision of financial services in Africa. With excellent management, functioning systems, the right values and culture, there is no doubt that we are on the right path to achieving our set objectives.

He said the Bank had a long tradition of operational excellence and strong execution and therefore aimed to refocus his attention and efforts on those core capabilities that will make Ecobank the best financial services firm in Africa.

Prior to his move to Ecobank, Mr. Tanoh, served as the Vice-President of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) overseeing Africa, Latin America and Western Europe regions where he spearheaded business development, deal structuring, and general growth of IFC business.

His work with international clients has given him broad perspective and knowledge of global financial services markets, and brings on board a wealth of experience across Africa.

As CEO, Mr. Tanoh is expected to spearhead the Group's progressive operations in 32 African countries while also scouting for new markets for business.