DIG/ Four years after its acquisition by the Ivorian Atlantic Financial group, the International Bank for Commerce and Industry of Gabon (BICIG) has officially changed its brand and logo too those of its main shareholder and buyer AFG Bank Gabon .
The rebranding or renaming ceremony took place on Saturday December 7, 2024 at the Radisson Blu hotel in the presence of the Prime Minister of the Transition Raymond Ndong sima, some members of his government, and several businessmen.
“The rebranding we are launching today is much more than a change of logo or brand. It is indeed a new face,a symbol of our desire to move forward,to assert our role as a strategic partner for the economic development of our country and its businesses.
Through this new identity, we want to offer our customers a more modern, smoother and more accessible banking experience. We want to provide them with innovative solutions adapted to their needs in a digital surroundings that is constantly evolving”indicated the general director of AFG Bank Gabon, Ghislain Mboumba.
You should know that Bicig, today AFG Bank Gabon, has been at the heart of financing the gabonese economy for 76 years.
Created in 1945 in Gabon under the name BNCI (National Bank for Commerce and Industry), the banking establishment is today present across a large part of the national territory.
“Gabon remains a major center of interest and the change in the name of the group,let us repeat ad nauseaum,is not only cosmetic,but it is also intended to result in the strengthening of our activities in the country in order to supporting a changing economy”, insisted Ghislain Mboumba.
Indeed, during the extraordinary general meeting held on Friday June 21, 2024, the shareholders of AFG Bank Gabon adopted the increase in share capital from 18 billion to 54 billion FCFA by issuing 3.6 million new shares.
During fiscal year 2023, AFG Bank Gabon posted a total balance sheet of 1,046 billion FCFA, an increase of 18% compared to 2022.
The net result,for its part,increased by 5% to reach 21.3 billion FCFA.
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Interview with ghislain Mboumba, General Director of AFG Bank Gabon
Editor (Time.news): Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Mboumba. AFG Bank Gabon has recently completed a meaningful rebranding from BICIG. Can you tell us more about the motivations behind this change?
Ghislain Mboumba: Thank you for having me. The rebranding from BICIG to AFG Bank Gabon is much more than just a change of logo. It serves as a symbol of our commitment to evolving as a strategic partner in the economic development of Gabon. We aim to modernize our banking experience to better suit the evolving needs of our customers in a digital habitat.
Editor: That’s an admirable goal. The ceremony hosted several vital figures, including the Prime Minister.What role do you see for the government in this change?
Ghislain mboumba: The presence of Prime Minister Raymond Ndong Sima at our rebranding ceremony highlights the government’s support for the banking sector as a crucial player in Gabon’s economic landscape. We believe that fostering strong public-private partnerships is essential for driving enduring growth and addressing the challenges of a changing economy.
Editor: You’ve mentioned that this rebranding aligns with a series of strategic initiatives. Can you elaborate on the impact this has on your commitment to supporting the Gabonese economy?
Ghislain Mboumba: Certainly. The rebranding goes hand-in-hand with our recent increase in share capital from 18 billion to 54 billion FCFA. This funding will allow us to enhance our operational capabilities, innovate our services, and ultimately strengthen our presence across the country. Our goal is to not onyl support existing businesses but also to foster new ventures, making banking more accessible to everyone.
Editor: Speaking of innovation, what new banking solutions can your customers expect from AFG Bank Gabon?
Ghislain Mboumba: We are focused on delivering a smoother and more accessible banking experience. This includes innovative digital solutions tailored to our customers’ specific needs. As we transition, our aim is to leverage technology to enhance financial services, thereby increasing efficiency and convenience for our users.
Editor: This sounds promising. Could you discuss the financial health of AFG Bank Gabon as you embark on this new chapter?
Ghislain Mboumba: Absolutely. In fiscal year 2023,we recorded a total balance sheet of 1,046 billion FCFA,representing an 18% increase compared to 2022. Additionally, our net result grew by 5% to reach 21.3 billion FCFA. These numbers reflect our solid foundation and our capability to expand further in the future.
Editor: That’s an extraordinary growth trajectory. What advice would you give to other banks or financial institutions looking to undergo a similar transformation?
Ghislain Mboumba: first, it’s crucial to have a clear vision and understanding of your market. Engage with customers to gauge their needs and expectations. Second, invest in technology and innovation, but ensure they align with your overall strategy. Lastly, maintaining transparency and communication with your stakeholders is vital for a smooth transition.
Editor: Thank you, Mr. Mboumba, for sharing your insights on the rebranding of AFG Bank Gabon. It’s clear that this change is positioned not just as a transformation in identity but also as a commitment to the economic growth of Gabon.
Ghislain Mboumba: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss our journey. Together, we are excited to contribute to Gabon’s dynamic economy.