Nedbank Named Africa’s Sustainable Bank of the Year for 2025
Published - 11 July 2025, Johannesburg
Nedbank has been named Sustainable Bank of the Year at the 19th African Banker Awards, held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, during the African Development Bank’s Annual Meetings. This prestigious award highlights Nedbank’s leadership in sustainable finance and its commitment to creating positive environmental, social, and governance (ESG) outcomes across Africa.
Nedbank was recognised for its holistic and integrated approach to sustainable finance, with ESG principles firmly embedded in its operations and products. The bank’s forward-looking strategy is helping to create long-term value for clients, employees, shareholders, and society.
Four Key Areas of Achievement
1. Leading the Way in Sustainable Development Finance
Nedbank continues to lead the African banking sector in financing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a pioneer in green finance, it has introduced green bonds, sustainability-linked loans, and impact investment products to address urgent social and environmental challenges. In 2024, Nedbank became the first South African bank to publish carbon reduction targets for its lending activities. By December 2024, it had already committed R183 billion - [19% of its total loan book] - to sustainable development finance. The bank aims to grow this to 20% by the end of 2025.
2. Standing Out Through Innovation
Nedbank has set itself apart through sector-specific innovation. In partnership with the South African Real Estate Investment Trust (SA REIT) Association, it launched the SA REIT Sustainability Disclosure Guide—the first of its kind in the sector. This guide sets new ESG reporting standards for South African real estate. In November 2024, Nedbank issued its first Sustainability Tier 2 Bond, listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The funds raised are being used for projects that address South Africa’s most urgent social and environmental needs.
3. Embedding ESG in Culture and Purpose
At the heart of Nedbank’s sustainability approach is its National Contributor platform—an internal initiative that encourages employees to find ways to align financial performance with positive social impact. This culture of purpose-driven innovation ensures sustainability remains central to the bank’s strategy.
4. Driving Sustainable Growth Across Sectors
Nedbank offers tailored sustainable finance solutions to clients in climate-sensitive sectors such as oil and gas, power, mining, agriculture, and real estate. These include green loans, sustainability-linked bonds, social loans, and advisory services.
A Vision for a Sustainable Future
Jason Quinn, Chief Executive of Nedbank, welcomed the award, saying:
“We’re honoured to receive this recognition for our efforts in advancing sustainability. The financing decisions we make today will shape tomorrow’s economy. Banks have a unique role to play in promoting sustainable practices through responsible lending, investment, and advice.”
He added: “The climate and nature crises - and our shared ambition to achieve the UN SDGs - demand bold leadership and collaboration. Nedbank remains committed to accelerating the transition to a thriving, sustainable future for all.”
