Equity Bank South Sudan has dedicated its headquarters in Juba, called Equity Plaza, in a ceremony that brought together government officials, church leaders, business partners, customers, members of the Equity Bank Board and staff.

The headquarters, which has housed the bank's operations since late 2024, was officially consecrated on Friday, July 24, 2026, by The Most Rev. Dr. Justin Badi Arama, Primate of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan and Metropolitan Archbishop of Juba, marking a significant milestone in the Bank's 17-year journey in South Sudan. Speaking during the event, South Sudan's Minister of Investment, Joseph Majak, described the building as a powerful statement of confidence in the country's future.

“This building before us is more than bricks and glass. It's a symbol of confidence in the people of South Sudan, confidence in our economy and confidence in our shared future,” said Majak. He noted that the investment sends a strong message that South Sudan remains open for business and commended Equity Bank for supporting entrepreneurs, families and small businesses across the country.“Over the years, this institution has not only been a financial service provider; it has been a genuine partner in developing and empowering small businesses, supporting families and helping to nurture the entrepreneurial spirit of our people,” he said.

Equity Bank South Sudan Managing Director Dr. Addis Ababa Othow said the dedication of Equity Plaza represents the fulfilment of a vision that began six years ago when the bank started planning a move from its former headquarters to a larger and more accessible location. Having established operations in South Sudan in 2009, Equity has continued to grow its footprint despite challenging operating conditions over the years. Dr. Othow said the new headquarters has enhanced service delivery and created a modern environment that enables staff to better serve customers while supporting innovation and growth. “This building is more than a headquarters. It is a symbol of hope, partnership, faith and our unwavering commitment to South Sudan,” he said. He explained that Equity intentionally sought a partnership that would generate social, economic and spiritual impact, eventually finding a willing partner in the Episcopal Church of South Sudan.

Under the arrangement, Equity financed the construction of the facility while the church remained the principal owner and long-term beneficiary of the investment, providing a model of shared value creation.

“The practical demonstration that commercial success and social impact can go hand in hand is what we are showing here. We believe that when businesses grow, families prosper; when entrepreneurs succeed, communities flourish; and when people gain access to financial services, nations become stronger,” he remarked. Dr. Othow also acknowledged the influential role played by faith institutions in shaping communities, professionals and enterprises, noting that the Episcopal Church and the Catholic Church remain among the country's most significant institutional stakeholders. For Archbishop Badi, the partnership represents a bold step in expanding the church's mission beyond the pulpit.

Recalling the church's decision to secure a US$2 million loan from Equity Bank to develop the property, he said church leaders initially questioned whether such a financial commitment was prudent. “The main question that comes to mind is: Is it a good idea to have a banking facility on church land sitting next to the cathedral? The answer is a big yes, because that is one way of doing mission," the clergy noted as the attendees listened pensively.

The Archbishop credited Equity Bank with giving the church confidence to pursue large-scale investments that support both ministry and community development. He further pledged deeper collaboration between the church and the bank, expressing optimism that more ECSS institutions, officials and members would embrace Equity's services as the partnership grows.