Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) has opened a new branch in Isiolo County as the lender expands its presence in underserved markets and moves closer to its target of operating 100 branches across Kenya by the end of 2026.
The new branch, launched on Monday, November 2, brings DTB’s Kenyan network to 94 outlets, with six additional branches scheduled to begin operations before the end of the year.
The expansion is expected to improve access to financial services for individuals, traders, small businesses and enterprises in Isiolo, where only seven banks currently serve the county.
DTB Kenya Managing Director Murali Natarajan said the decision to establish a presence in the region was informed by the need to make banking services accessible to communities beyond major commercial centres.
“Financial inclusion means ensuring that opportunity is not determined by where someone lives. By establishing a presence in Isiolo, we are bringing our banking services closer to individuals and businesses that are contributing to the region’s economy and creating opportunities for its future,” Natarajan said.
He added: “We recognise the potential of northern Kenya and want to be a partner to the people, enterprises and communities building the future.”
Isiolo occupies a strategic position along the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor, which is expected to open up northern Kenya to increased trade, investment, transport and tourism opportunities.
The county also serves as a gateway to several tourism destinations in northern Kenya, making it an important location for businesses seeking financial services to support commercial activities.
The latest expansion comes as DTB pursues an ambitious growth strategy combining physical branch expansion with increased investment in digital banking.
In August 2026, the lender reported a 37 per cent increase in pre-tax profit to Ksh9.8 billion for the six months ended June 2026, reflecting growth in its banking operations.
During the announcement, DTB Group Chief Executive Officer Nasim Devji said the bank was targeting growth across retail, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and corporate banking.
“Across the three operating markets, DTB continues to pursue growth opportunities across retail, SME and corporate segments, pivoted by ecosystem-driven customer acquisition, digital-led value propositions, targeted lending and deposit mobilisation, sustained revenue generation and technology-anchored operational efficiencies,” Devji said.
Natarajan also confirmed the lender’s target of reaching 100 branches in Kenya by Christmas 2026, with its wider East African network expected to expand to 163 branches.
“By Christmas this year we are set to open our 100th branch in Kenya, growing our total network to 163 across East Africa,” he said.
Despite investing in physical outlets, DTB has continued to expand its digital banking operations. Its August 2026 results showed that 99 per cent of new customers acquired over the preceding 12 months were onboarded through digital platforms, while more than 86 per cent of customer transactions were conducted through digital channels.
The bank has also been extending its reach into emerging commercial centres. In June 2025, DTB opened a branch in Mwea Town, Kirinyaga County, bringing its Kenyan network to 89 branches at the time.
During the opening, DTB Retail Director George Otiende said the expansion was intended to make banking services more accessible to businesses and individuals in economically active regions.
“We are delighted to open our doors in this vibrant and economically strategic town. At DTB, we believe banking should be accessible to all,” Otiende said.
