DNK International By Our Correspondent,Nairobi.
Equity Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. James Mwangi, has been named to the Devex Power 50 List 2026, an annual ranking that recognizes the world’s most influential leaders shaping the future of global development.
The Power 50 spotlights individuals described by Devex as those “transforming development as we know it” at a time when the global development landscape is rapidly evolving, with increasing emphasis on development finance, private capital, and innovation.
Devex cited Dr. Mwangi’s leadership in transforming Equity Group from a Kenyan lender into a leading regional financial institution serving more than 22.2 million customers across Africa.
His strong advocacy for private sector led growth, digital transformation, SME financing, and climate focused initiatives was also highlighted as central to his global influence.
Through the Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan (ARRP), Dr. Mwangi has emerged as a prominent voice on Africa’s path toward local capital formation, resilient value chains, and scaled enterprise, particularly at a time when traditional donor funding is under increasing pressure.
His inclusion on the list places him alongside global heads of state and leaders of major multilateral institutions, including presidents of development banks, senior World Bank and United Nations officials, and global technology leaders.
The recognition comes as Kenya’s financial sector continues to expand its regional footprint, reinforcing the country’s position as a growing financial and technology hub for East Africa.
[DNK-International@February 10,2026]
