The Cooperative Bank of Oromia is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a strong track record of financial growth and economic impact. Since its establishment on March 8, 2005, the bank has expanded its reach and influence, playing a key role in Ethiopia’s financial sector. With over 14.5 million customers and more than 15,000 employees, it has positioned itself as a major financial institution driving inclusive banking and digital innovation.

The bank has disbursed over ETB 18.4 billion in collateral-free digital loans through Michu digital loan, benefiting more than 1.2 million account holders. These loans have enabled small businesses to expand, create jobs, and improve service accessibility. Some entrepreneurs have secured loans exceeding ETB 2 million, helping them scale their businesses from home-based operations to fully established commercial ventures. This initiative has strengthened Ethiopia’s micro and small business sector, offering financial solutions to those previously underserved by traditional banking.

Coopay e-Birr, the bank’s mobile wallet service, has processed transactions worth ETB 2.6 trillion, making it the third-largest mobile financial service provider in Ethiopia. It has surpassed private banks in digital transactions, showcasing the bank’s success in driving financial inclusion through technology. Its digital-first approach has led to the creation of Ethiopia’s only dedicated banking innovation center, where cutting-edge solutions continue to improve financial accessibility.

Beyond its financial services, the bank remains committed to social responsibility. As part of its 20th-anniversary celebration under the theme 20 for 20th Anniversary Celebration, it has launched nationwide initiatives, including blood donation drives, environmental clean-up campaigns, visits to charitable institutions, and Ramadan events for customers in various cities. The bank has also organized hackathons to encourage innovation and continues to gather customer feedback to refine its services.

In tandem with this, Cooperative Bank has launched an incubation center with the vision of becoming a hub of innovation and knowledge. The center is designed using local expertise and resources, reflecting the community’s strengths. Among its unique features is the Soof Omar Knowledge Cave, a space where employees focus deeply in a serene, natural environment in the heart of Bole, Addis Ababa. The center aims to foster ideas that will benefit future generations. “The center celebrates the cultural and historical richness of Ethiopia, drawing inspiration from figures like King Abba Jifar, King Kawo Tona, and King Fasiledes, and embodies the diverse cultures of Ethiopia’s people,” said Deribie Asfaw, CEO of Cooperative Bank of Oromia.

A key highlight of the celebration is the honoring of Sinqe Branch on International Women’s Day, a groundbreaking initiative within the Cooperative Bank of Oromia. Fully operated by women, Sinqe Branch is named after Siinqee, a traditional women’s rights system central to the Geda system. To mark International Women’s Day, the bank is hosting a special event at the Sinqe branch, where female leaders will come together to celebrate and discuss women’s empowerment in the financial sector. This initiative underscores the bank’s ongoing commitment to gender equality and inclusive economic development.

The Cooperative Bank of Oromia was founded to address the financial needs of cooperatives and rural communities. Over the past two decades, it has expanded to every corner of the country, bringing banking services to areas with limited infrastructure. By scaling up collateral-free loans, pioneering digital finance, and investing in technology-driven solutions, the bank has positioned itself as a leader in Ethiopia’s financial sector.
As the bank celebrates this milestone, it remains focused on its core mission: empowering communities, driving economic growth, and redefining banking accessibility.