National Bank of Commerce (NBC Bank Tanzania) is one of Tanzania’s oldest and most established financial institutions, tracing its origins back to 1967 when the Tanzanian government nationalized financial entities nationwide . In 1997, amid banking reforms, the bank was restructured—splitting into NBC Holdings, NMB, and NBC (1997) Limited . By 2000, Absa Group Limited (South Africa) obtained a majority stake, while the Tanzanian government retained 30% and the IFC (World Bank Group) took up 15% shareholding .
Today, NBC operates a network of approximately 51 branches and over 230 ATMs nationwide, with around 1,200 employees serving diverse customer needs . The bank offers a broad spectrum of banking solutions including retail, business, corporate, and investment banking, alongside wealth management services .
NBC has earned several accolades over the years, such as the 2005 Corporate Bank of the Year award, African Banker Award for Best Local Bank in Africa (2009), and recognition for Best Islamic Retail Bank and Retail Bank by Asian Banker in 2017 and 2015 respectively .
In recent years, NBC has emerged as a leader in digital innovation and sustainability. It was named Tanzania’s Best Digital Bank for Consumers in 2025 by Euromoney for its pioneering digital platform “NBC Kiganjani,” which offers accessible services like USSD, mobile app, bill payments, instant microloans, and biometric security features . Additionally, the bank secured the title of Tanzania’s Best Bank for Corporate Social Responsibility in 2024, due to its impactful initiatives such as NBC Business Clubs, mobile health clinics, marathon fundraising for cervical cancer, and financial empowerment programs for women and youth .
NBC exemplifies a blend of rich heritage, expansive coverage, modern digital access, and deep commitment to community upliftment and sustainable development.