The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has approved the rebranding of Habib African Bank Limited to Africa & Gulf Bank (Tanzania) Limited, following a change in the bank's shareholding structure.
The central bank announced the move in a public notice issued on June 2, stating that the new name became effective on May 19, 2026, after receiving regulatory approval.
The change marks a new chapter for the lender as Tanzania's banking sector continues to witness ownership restructuring and strategic investments aimed at strengthening financial institutions and enhancing competitiveness.
In the notice signed by the Deputy Governor responsible for Financial Sector Stability and Supervision, Ms Sauda K. Msemo, BoT said the approval followed changes in the bank's ownership.
"The Bank of Tanzania wishes to inform the public that following changes in the shareholding of Habib African Bank Limited, it has approved the change of the bank's name to Africa & Gulf Bank (Tanzania) Limited with effect from May 19, 2026," the statement said.
While the institution will operate under a new name, its headquarters will remain at Plot Nos. 813/23 and 814/23 at the junction of Zanaki and Indira Gandhi streets in Dar es Salaam.
The rebranding reflects a shift in the bank's corporate identity following the ownership transition and is expected to strengthen its positioning within Tanzania's increasingly competitive banking landscape.
Industry analysts note that ownership changes and rebranding exercises have become common among financial institutions seeking to align their operations with new strategic investors, expand market reach and enhance service delivery.
BoT's approval underscores its regulatory mandate to oversee changes in ownership and governance within the banking sector to ensure the continued stability, soundness and integrity of the country's financial system.
The lender will continue operating as a licensed commercial bank under the supervision of the central bank, with customers expected to continue accessing services under the new corporate identity.
The development comes as Tanzania's financial sector continues to attract regional and international investors, reflecting growing confidence in the country's banking industry and broader economic prospects.
