Malta, April 10, 2025 – The Access Bank UK Limited marked a major milestone with the official launch of its first fully owned European subsidiary, The Access Bank Malta Limited. The occasion was celebrated in style with an evening reception at the historic Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar, welcoming over 250 esteemed guests from across the business and financial sectors.
The launch represents a bold step forward in strengthening trade ties between Europe and Africa, with Malta chosen for its strategic geographical position at the crossroads of the two continents. As a globally recognised financial centre, Malta offers unique advantages for businesses seeking to expand international trade and investment opportunities.
The evening reception brought together prominent dignitaries and senior executives, including Honourable Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, Malta’s Minister for Lands and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme, Roosevelt Ogbonna, Group CEO of Access Bank Plc and Jamie Simmonds, CEO and Founding Managing Director of The Access Bank UK Limited.
In his remarks, Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi praised the launch as a landmark moment for Malta’s financial landscape.
“We proudly welcome The Access Bank Malta Limited to Malta’s thriving financial services community. This new presence reinforces our country’s role as a key bridge for commerce between Europe and Africa, in line with our national vision – Malta Vision 2050 – which champions global collaboration, digital innovation, and sustainable economic growth.”
The new subsidiary is set to play a pivotal role in facilitating cross-border trade, offering tailored financial solutions for businesses operating across both regions. With Europe accounting for approximately 30% of Africa’s total trade, the speakers underscored the importance of expanding operations into Malta.
“This is a natural next step in our Group’s international strategy,” said Jamie Simmonds. “We are committed to deepening trade relationships between Europe and Africa, and Malta offers the ideal platform to serve businesses with interests across these regions.”
Roosevelt Ogbonna added:
“Expanding our footprint to Malta is a key part of our vision to be Africa’s Gateway to the World. It brings us closer to our clients and enhances our ability to support their growth through innovative and practical banking solutions.”
Renald Theuma, Managing Director and CEO of The Access Bank Malta Limited, spoke of the team’s ambition to build a dynamic new banking presence:
“We are proud to launch in Malta and excited to begin this new chapter. Our focus will be on facilitating seamless trade between Europe and Africa, delivering world-class banking services with a local touch.”
The evening at Palazzo Parisio was filled with optimism, celebration, and renewed commitment to building financial bridges between continents. Against the backdrop of the grand palace and its elegant gardens, guests toasted to a future of collaboration and opportunity, anchored by Access Bank’s growing international presence.
