LONDON, United Kingdom, July 19, 2025 (EZ Newswire) — iib East Africa, opens new tab has earned international recognition for its leadership in sustainable banking, securing three prestigious awards in 2025 from Euromoney, Global Finance and World Finance.

These accolades underscore iib East Africa’s unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility, ethical banking practices, and inclusive economic development in the Horn of Africa.

On July 18, 2025, Euromoney, opens new tab named iib East Africa Djibouti’s Best Bank for ESG, opens new tab in its 2025 Awards for Excellence, reinforcing the bank’s role as a catalyst for impact-driven finance in one of Africa’s fastest-growing trade corridors.

On January 20, 2025, Global Finance, opens new tab named iib East Africa as the Best Sustainable Bank in its 2025 Sustainable Finance Awards, opens new tab, recognizing the bank’s integration of ESG principles into core operations, innovative green financing frameworks, and community-led climate initiatives.

On June 23, 2025, World Finance, opens new tab awarded iib East Africa the title of Most Sustainable Bank in Djibouti, opens new tab, commending its efforts to decarbonize lending portfolios, champion SME access to sustainable finance, and fund renewable infrastructure across the region.

iib East Africa has received the Best Sustainable Bank 2025 award from World Finance, recognising its leadership in embedding sustainability into core banking operations and development partnerships.

The award highlights the bank’s efforts to channel finance into climate resilience, clean energy, and inclusive growth initiatives. Over the past year, iib East Africa has deepened its commitment to environmental and social governance (ESG), while supporting underserved communities and green ventures.

“At iib, sustainability is not an add-on. It is central to how we operate and how we serve,” said Sohail Sultan, Group CEO of iib. “This award validates the work our teams are doing to enable a low-carbon, inclusive future in East Africa.”

The bank’s climate finance portfolio continues to grow, with targeted support for SMEs, women-led businesses, and renewable energy projects. iib East Africa also partners with international institutions to deliver affordable, climate-resilient housing and build local capacity in green skills.

“Our purpose is rooted in impact. We are here to help communities thrive, not just economies grow,” Sultan added. “Being recognised by World Finance encourages us to go further and do more.”

World Finance honours financial institutions that lead with purpose and performance. iib East Africa’s recognition affirms its role as a sustainable finance pioneer in the region.

About World Finance

World Finance is a leading bi-monthly financial publication that has been operating since 2007, offering in-depth coverage and analysis of the financial industry, international business, and global economic trends. With a focus on innovation, leadership, and market intelligence, its annual awards recognize excellence across banking, finance, and corporate governance worldwide.

International Investment Bank (iib) is pleased to announce that it has officially changed its name to Intercontinental Investment Bank, effective immediately. The decision reflects the bank’s commitment to clarity, operational transparency, and continued trust with global partners.

This strategic name change comes in response to persistent confusion caused by the existence of another financial institution bearing a similar name, currently under international sanctions. While iib has no affiliation or association with the sanctioned entity, the overlap in naming has, at times, led to misidentification and operational complications, especially amidst heightened global regulatory oversight.

The name change has been implemented in iib East Africa (Djibouti), iib West Africa (Cape Verde) and iib Caribbean (The Bahamas).

“This is a proactive measure to safeguard our brand identity and ensure seamless interactions with our clients, partners, and regulators across jurisdictions,” said Sohail Sultan, CEO of Intercontinental Investment Bank. “Our operations, leadership, legal entity, and regulatory standing remain exactly the same. The only change is our name.”

The new name, Intercontinental Investment Bank, more accurately reflects the institution’s expansive global footprint and commitment to cross-border partnerships across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South Asia and beyond, while retaining the familiar acronym, iib.

Correspondent Banks, Institutional Partners, and Regulators have or are in the process of receiving updated documentation to reflect the name change. Our retail customers and vendors may be assured that all existing services, accounts, and points of contact remain unchanged and the banks are committed to ensuring a smooth and disruption-free transition for all stakeholders.

For further information or documentation related to this change, stakeholders are encouraged to contact their usual relationship managers or contacts.

We thank you for your continued trust and partnership.

For further information, please contact:
Farah Sayeed
Director, Brands & Marcom
Intercontinental Investment Bank
farah.sayeed@iibanks.com

London, May 13, 2025 — iib East Africa has been named Best Bank for Sustainable Finance 2025 – East Africa at the prestigious Global Finance Awards held in London. The recognition underscores the bank’s steadfast commitment to advancing sustainability and financial inclusion across the East African region.

The award was received by Sohail Sultan, Chairman of iibGroup; SK Husain, COO of iibGroup; and Papa Demba Diop, CEO of iib East Africa. They were joined by Farah Sayeed, Director of Brand and Marketing Communications; Sabiha Sultan, Director of Institutional Investors; and Mehdi Zahichi, Head of Strategy and Transformation.

“This award reaffirms our belief that sustainable finance is not a trend—it is a responsibility,” said Sohail Sultan, Chairman of iibGroup. “At iib, we are deeply committed to developing financial solutions that address the region’s pressing environmental and social challenges while driving inclusive economic growth. We are honoured by this global recognition, and proud of our team’s role in making purposeful banking a reality.”

The accolade reflects iib East Africa’s pioneering initiatives in clean energy financing, inclusive banking, and its alignment with international ESG standards. It also highlights the bank’s regional leadership in integrating environmental and social governance into core banking operations.

As part of our sustainability program, iib organized a story reading activity in partnership with the French Institute of Djibouti for the children of Souna Al Haya. Souna Al Haya is an association that takes care of precarious and special needs children. So it was a friendly moment for the storyteller, Madame Radia and the children who exchanged captivating stories and glances filled with surprises. Thanks to the French Institute for this day that brightened the hearts of many children.

Djibouti, 21 March 2025 – iib East Africa has been named Best Bank in Djibouti by Global Finance Magazine as part of its 2025 World’s Best Bank Awards. This esteemed accolade highlights iib East Africa’s dedication to delivering exceptional banking services and its significant role in fostering economic growth within the region.

Global Finance’s World’s Best Bank Awards recognize financial institutions that demonstrate excellence across various criteria, including growth in assets, profitability, geographic reach, strategic relationships, new business development, and innovation in products. Winners are selected through a comprehensive process involving input from industry analysts, corporate executives, and banking consultants.

“Receiving this award is a reflection of our relentless pursuit of banking excellence and our commitment to driving financial progress in Djibouti. At iib East Africa, we continuously innovate to provide tailored solutions that empower businesses and individuals alike. This recognition fuels our determination to redefine banking standards both in the region and globally.” said Sohail Sultan, CEO.

iib East Africa has consistently focused on expanding its service offerings, enhancing customer experience, and investing in technological advancements to meet the evolving needs of its clients. This award reflects the bank’s efforts to maintain a strong market presence and contribute positively to the financial landscape of Djibouti.

About Global Finance

Founded in 1987, Global Finance is a trusted source of financial news, analysis, and rankings, serving senior corporate and financial decision-makers in 188 countries. Its awards programs recognize excellence in banking and finance worldwide.

Read the Global Finance Press Release

“This recognition fuels our determination to redefine banking standards both in the region and globally”

Sohail Sultan – CEO

iib is proud to announce its partnership with the UK’s prestigious Chevening Scholarship postgraduate program, reaffirming our dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders in Djibouti and beyond. This collaboration reflects iib’s ongoing efforts to invest in education, leadership, and innovation by supporting exceptional individuals in their academic and professional journeys. In addition to the scholarship in Djibouti, iib West Africa will also be sponsoring a scholarship in Cape Verde.

The Chevening Scholarship, with a legacy spanning 42 years, has nurtured thousands of outstanding scholars worldwide, many of whom have gone on to hold influential positions in politics, commerce, science and the arts. It’s an astonishing global network. Through this program, iib aims to provide talented individuals from Djibouti with the opportunity to access world-class education, equipping them with the skills, knowledge and networks necessary to drive change in their communities.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, H.E. Vinay Talwar, British Ambassador to Djibouti & UK Representative to IGAD said, “The Chevening program has been running for 42 years, fostering bright minds who have gone on to hold key positions worldwide. We’re really delighted that iib is joining this initiative. Their involvement ensures that future leaders from Djibouti can benefit from this network, and we look forward to selecting candidates who will drive impactful change.”

Farah Sayeed, Director of Brands & Marcom, iibGroup highlighted the importance of this collaboration, “Our partnership with the Chevening Scholarship program is a testament to our commitment to investing in the future leaders of Djibouti. By supporting talented individuals in their academic and professional journeys, we empower them to contribute to the broader development of our communities.”

Currently, Chevening is in the process of reviewing applications and will conduct interviews in early April. iib will work closely with Chevening to select the most promising candidates, ensuring they receive the support needed to maximize their potential.

Beyond financial support, iib is committed to mentoring and promoting the selected scholars, integrating them into the institution’s broader initiatives. This partnership is not just about funding education—it is about cultivating a network of leaders who will contribute to Djibouti’s socio-economic growth and global presence.

With this initiative, iib continues to strengthen its role as a catalyst for progress, investing in human capital and fostering innovation for a brighter, more sustainable future.

At iib bank, we are convinced that every player, no matter how small, has a major responsibility in protecting the environment.

For this reason and as part of our sustainable development program, we have decided to organize a clean-up event on the Ile De La Tortue on Saturday February 15, 2025, in partnership with organizations that share our values and convictions. We worked with teams from the UNDP, Rotary Club, SOS environnement, CAC and AADD. The day was an opportunity for everyone to realize the importance of preserving the maritime spaces that represent a significant part of Djibouti’s eco-system. This realization created positive energy among all the teams, who actively collected all the garbage around the beach. We had the support of the president of the Boulaos commune in carrying out this mission. The efforts of each and every one of us paid off, as we managed to collect around 400 KG of used plastic, which was sent to the Eco Tech company in charge of plastic recycling. This activity highlights iib’s efforts to make Djibouti a cleaner, greener city.

To all our partners, our deepest thanks for this productive and enriching day. Thanks to everyone’s good will and motivation, we were able to make a real contribution to preserving our environment. Together, let’s continue to have a positive impact on our planet.

Djibouti, January 20, 2025 – iib East Africa has been awarded the Best Bank for Sustainable Finance in Djibouti by Global Finance Magazine as part of its 2025 Sustainable Finance Awards. This prestigious recognition underscores iib East Africa’s unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable finance and fostering economic growth through responsible banking practices.

The Global Finance Sustainable Finance Awards celebrate financial institutions that excel in integrating sustainability into their core operations, financing initiatives that combat climate change, and promoting responsible investment strategies. Winners are selected based on governance policies, sustainability goals, and measurable achievements in environmental and social impact financing.

“This achievement is more than just a title; it is a testament to the role we play in financing progress – supporting businesses, empowering communities, and driving sustainable development,” said Sohail Sultan, CEO. “We have embraced the responsibility of shaping a more resilient and inclusive financial future, and this recognition reaffirms that we are on the right path.”

iib East Africa’s strategic focus on sustainability includes financing renewable energy projects, supporting SMEs with green business models, and championing financial inclusion to drive economic empowerment. This award marks a significant milestone as iib Group’s first Global Finance award, reflecting its regional leadership in sustainable banking.

About Global Finance

Read the Global Finance Press Release

“This achievement is more than just a title; it is a testament to the role we play in financing progress – supporting businesses, empowering communities, and driving sustainable development.”

Sohail Sultan, Chairman – iibGroup

iib Djibouti is the first bank recognised as a Great Place To Work® in the region. All this is thanks to our passionate and dedicated team

Following a survey conducted among colleagues, iib ranked exceptionally high across all parameters, including workplace culture, collaboration, open-door policy, teamwork, and camaraderie. iib congratulates the entire team on achieving this tremendous milestone.

High Level Results

“Becoming the first in the region certified as a Great Place to Work is a proud moment for iib Djibouti. This achievement is a testament to your dedication, teamwork, and shared vision. Thank you for setting the standard of excellence—we’ll keep leading together!”

Maruf Ahmed, Director – iib East Africa

Great Place To Work ® is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. Through proprietary assessment tools, advisory services, and certification programs, Great Place To Work ® recognises the Best Workplaces™ across the world in a series of national lists including those published by Fortune magazine (USA) and in leading media across the Middle East. Great Place To Work ® provides the benchmarks, framework, and expertise needed to create, sustain, and recognise outstanding workplace cultures.

Visit iib on GPTW