Equity Bank has once again solidified its dominance by becoming the reigning champions of 37th Edition 2024 interbank games. The bank was also recognized as the Best Bank in the Tier One category.
Over 30 financial institutions together with more than 20 sporting disciplines participated in this year’s Interbank Games that took place at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies (KSMS) in Nairobi.
Among the many triumphs which took part in the competition, Equity Bank emerged victorious in the March Past category, outclassing Co-op bank and KCB. This victory attributes to the impeccable teamwork and synchronization showcased by Equity bank’s marching formations which hit the high bars.
The Men’s Volleyball team, led by captain Lawrence Nkoyo, defended their title by defeating CBK 2-0 in the semifinals before overcoming Co-op Bank 3-1 in the final match.
Speaking after garnering heros of the competition against some of the best teams, captain Nkoyo acknowledged the experience of their opponents, however, taking pride of their famous win.
“Opponents are improving a lot, with some players having professional league experience…The addition of new staff has really helped us maintain the trophy for two years, and we’re grateful for this win.” He asserted.
In athletics, the Women’s team took first place, while the Men’s team finished second, with standout performances in the relays, 100m, 400m, and 800m races, including a remarkable victory by Abraham Kiplagat in the 800m and Sylvia Wasilwa’s run in relay. Additionally, Equity Bank Kenya’s Acting Managing Director, Moses Nyabanda, delivered an outstanding run during the 100m race.
The Women’s Basketball team capped off an unbeaten run with a commanding win against I&M in the finals, with team captain Melissa Akinyi being named Most Valuable Player (MVP), continuing her stellar performance from the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) playoffs perfomances with the Equity Hawks.
Captain Melissa on the other hand, urged her fellows to never relent, but to instead stay focused to seek being better everyday.
“We’ve remained unbeaten for the past eight years, but that doesn’t mean we can relax. We need to keep working hard and continue training as we aim to improve ourselves as well.” She remarked.
Both the Men’s and Women’s Handball teams went unbeaten in their respective categories, while the Women’s Netball team also dominated to take first place. The Women’s Football team excelled in the 8-team round-robin competition, clinching the title after beating Absa in the finals.
Although the Men’s Football team lost to I&M 4-1 in the final, they impressed with an unbeaten run throughout the group stages and knockouts.
Squash ladies powered through an unbeaten run to the finals, proudly clinching silver. The men’s table tennis team secured a commendable 3rd place finish, while the women snatched silver. Badminton proved to be a challenging competition, with the overall team battling their way to a solid 3rd place.
Meanwhile, the men’s tug of war team fought fiercely, earning another 3rd place finish. With a strong foundation laid, the team is already gearing up to bring home even more trophies in the next edition of the Interbank Games!
According to Chief Guest William Nyaga, representing CBK as well as Governor Dr. Kamau Thugge, who were pitched their thoughts concerning the competition, participants ought to keep practicing in order to perfect their talents. They also encouraged participants to embrace the spirit of teamwork also urging employees collaborate even back to their workplaces, encouraging further institutional support for such events.
On the other hand, John Rioba, Chair of the Kenya Institute of Bankers (KIB) Governing Council, expressed his gratitude to all participating teams and the bank leadership.
“We are all winners today, and I commend the bank managements who supported their staff in these games. It shows the value we place on employee engagement and health.”
Pouring out overflowing praise to Victorious Equity team, Equity Bank’s Acting Managing Director, Moses Nyabanda, said, “Sports is integral to what we do at Equity Bank. It’s about more than serving our customers—it’s about staying healthy, engaging with colleagues, and building strong networks across the banking sector.”
Equity Bank Sports Coordinator Nick Ongeri also shared his elation after winning the overall trophy in Tier One and defending the Best Overall Bank title.
“We’ll keep working hard to improve in sports and continue elevating Equity Bank’s name. This victory is a result of dedication and teamwork from everyone.”
This magnificent victory by the Equity Bank at the interbank games, not only displayed their cohesion and success in the sporting sector, but it also showed their absolute commitment and readiness to excel in the banking sector. Therefore, as they continue keeping their heads raised to defend their title, the Equity team is looking forward to inspiring their staff and institutions while fostering the common virtues of teamwork, fitness, and collaboration among their staffs and institutions across the country.