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FCB celebrates 30 years of growth in banking

First Capital Bank (FCB) plc has marked 30 years of operations in Malawi amid calls for financial institutions to invest more in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which are central to the country’s development ambitions.

Founded in 1995 with a single branch and $1 million (about K1.7 billion) in assets, FCB has grown into one of Malawi’s largest banks, now managing assets worth $1.7 billion (nearly K3 trillion) and employing over 2 100 staff across the region.

Anadkat (L) and other officials captured during a cocktail. I Wycliffe njiragoma

Speaking during the anniversary celebrations in Lilongwe yesterday, FCB founder Hitesh Anadkat said the bank’s rise reflects a story of vision, resilience and purpose.

Said Anadkat: “This growth is not just financial; it’s a testament to what happens when people believe in a dream and work together to build it.”

He added: “We’ve financed thousands of businesses, taken the Malawi brand to new markets and supported job-creation. But the journey isn’t over—we must keep growing and supporting more enterprises. That’s how we help the country.”

Anadkat attributed FCB’s success to cautious, disciplined growth and long-term thinking.

Looking ahead, he said the bank would continue investing in digital innovation and regional expansion while remaining grounded in its founding values.

His remarks were echoed by President Lazarus Chakwera who, in a recorded congratulatory message beamed at the party, challenged FCB to align its next phase of growth with the Malawi 2063 blueprint by prioritising SME financing.

“Support for SMEs is central to building the inclusive wealth we envision in Malawi 2063,” said Chakwera. “Financial institutions like First Capital Bank must play a leading role.”

Among the patrons at the celebration was entrepreneur and philanthropist Napoleon Dzombe, who described banks as critical enablers of Malawi’s agro-based economy.

“There’s no way a country can prosper without strong banking systems. First Capital Bank has helped many Malawians to build businesses, especially in agriculture, where access to finance is key for buying fertilisers and inputs,” he said.

He hailed the Anadkat family for building a resilient institution that has not only survived but expanded beyond Malawi’s borders.

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