Bange Bank Cameroon, a subsidiary of the Equatoguinean public bank Bange Bank SA, plans to expand its network by opening six new branches in 2026. This initiative is part of its strategic development plan for 2026, aimed at strengthening its presence in the Cameroonian market.
According to the announced plan, two additional branches will be established in Douala, the economic capital, while Yaoundé, the political capital, Bafoussam (West region), and Garoua (North region) will each host a new branch. These strategic openings will bring Bange Bank Cameroon's network to a total of 15 branches across the country by 2027, consolidating its position in the Cameroonian banking market.
Already present with nine operational branches, including three in Douala, three in Yaoundé, and one in each of the cities of Kribi, Sangmélima, and Kye-Ossi, Bange Bank Cameroon aims to capture a larger and more diverse customer base through this expansion. The bank started its operations in Cameroon in October 2021.
After a ramp-up phase marked by losses of 10.2 billion FCFA in 2022 and 2023, Bange Bank Cameroon claims to have returned to profitability in 2024. Its balance sheet recorded a year-on-year increase of 58.6%, reaching 67.2 billion FCFA. Deposits saw a sharp increase, rising to 37.8 billion FCFA in 2024, an increase of 116% compared to the previous year.
The institution has an outstanding loan portfolio of 53.5 billion FCFA in 2024, representing approximately 0.88% of the market. Bange Bank Cameroon stands out with a deposit-to-loan ratio of 93.5%, one of the highest in the sector, demonstrating a strong ability to mobilize collected resources. The bank was recognized for its commitment to SMEs, receiving the "Bank with the Most Support for SMEs" award at a ceremony organized by L'Economie Media Group on February 26, 2026, in Douala.
Angelica Monayong Esono, Deputy Commercial Director of Bange Bank Cameroon, emphasized that this performance is the result of a strategy focused on financial inclusion and proximity to entrepreneurs. She dedicated the award to the customers and SMEs who trust the bank.
While Bange Bank Cameroon shows notable growth, it needs to consolidate its financing structure by increasing the share of long-term loans in its credit portfolio. The expansion of the branch network should help strengthen its presence and diversify its revenue streams, thereby contributing to consolidating its position in the Cameroonian banking market, where competition is intensifying.
In 2024, the Cameroonian banking sector recorded record profits, exceeding 200 billion FCFA, which reflects the good health of the sector and its growth potential.
