FIRSTRAND LIMITED - Appointment of an independent non-executive director

 Appointment of an independent non-executive director

FIRSTRAND LIMITED
(Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa)
(Registration number: 1966/010753/06)
JSE ordinary share code: FSR; ISIN code: ZAE000066304
NSX ordinary share code: FST
JSE company code interest rate issuer: FSDI
LEI: 529900XYOP8CUZU7R671
(FirstRand or the group)

APPOINTMENT OF AN INDEPENDENT NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

In accordance with paragraphs 6.71(a) of the JSE Limited (JSE) Listings Requirements and 6.42(a) of the JSE
Debt and Specialist Securities Listings Requirements, shareholders and noteholders are advised that Dr Solomon
Assefa has been appointed as an independent non-executive director to FirstRand’s board of directors (board)
with effect from 1 October 2026.

Dr Solomon Assefa holds degrees in electrical engineering, computer science and physics, including a Ph.D. from
the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). His appointment to the board adds extensive experience in global
research and development, emerging technologies and commercialising innovation. As a former Vice President at
IBM Research, he led several global initiatives, including the establishment of IBM’s research presence in Africa.
He is also the founder of Viridian Partners, which supports the development and commercialisation of frontier
technologies.

FirstRand confirms that Dr Assefa’s appointment was made in accordance with the group’s nomination policy for
the selection and nomination of non-executive directors. In accordance with paragraphs 6.73 and 6.74 of the JSE
Listings Requirements, the board has assessed Dr Assefa’s fit and proper status and is satisfied with the outcome
of the assessment and further confirms that there are no matters requiring disclosure in relation to the integrity
information contained in Dr Assefa’s director's declaration.

Dr Assefa’s appointment deepens the FirstRand’s boards skills with regards to critical topics such as technology
strategy, AI and other global technological trends pertinent to the financial services industry. The board
congratulates Dr Assefa on his appointment and looks forward to his valuable contribution.

Sandton
29 September 2026

Sponsor
Rand Merchant Bank (a division of FirstRand Bank Limited)

Debt sponsor
FirstRand Bank Limited
Date: 29/09/2026 05:35:00
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