Equity Bank Uganda has kicked off the 2025 edition of its flagship Tupange Equity Business forum with a vibrant gathering of over 500 small and medium enterprise (SME) leaders at Hotel Africana on Wednesday. Now in its second year, the initiative is broadening its reach beyond Kampala to Mbale, Arua, Hoima, and Fort Portal—taking vital financial and business development support to entrepreneurs across the country.
The forum is designed to give SMEs more than just credit. It offers mentorship, business advisory services, market linkages, and financing solutions aimed at boosting their competitiveness. Equity Bank Uganda’s Head of SME, Olivia Mugaba, praised branch managers for their role in mobilising participants and reminded attendees that SMEs generate seven out of every ten new jobs in Uganda. She reiterated the bank’s dedication to backing their growth through integrated value chain financing.
Executive Director Claver Serumaga showcased a suite of innovations built for SMEs—from agent banking and point-of-sale services to ERP-integrated internet banking, real-time supplier financing, and unsecured loans of up to Shs1.5 billion. He also revealed the bank’s upcoming Pay with Equity platform, which will streamline daily transactions for business owners.
“Our mission is to transform lives, provide dignity, and create wealth opportunities,” Serumaga told the audience. “Every service we provide must help SMEs succeed. If we’re not enabling transformation, we’re not meeting our purpose.” He explained the importance of youth-focused programs, customised financial packages, and faster guarantees to help enterprises grow sustainably.
Dr. Fred Muhunza, Economic Advisor to the President, applauded the bank’s integrated value chain approach. He noted that financing every link in the chain—from suppliers to buyers—builds stronger, more resilient businesses. Pastor Robert Kayanja, another guest speaker, commended the bank for supporting social enterprises, citing examples in Karamoja where Equity Bank has funded tractors and farming initiatives to fight hunger and improve livelihoods.
By taking Tupange Equity Business to more regions, the bank hopes to modernise SME operations, enhance efficiency, and strengthen market presence. The approach goes beyond individual businesses, aiming to grow entire ecosystems so that when SMEs thrive, communities thrive with them.
With its mix of financial innovation, practical support, and nationwide reach, Equity Bank Uganda is positioning itself as not just a lender, but a partner in building resilient, future-ready enterprises that will shape Uganda’s economic growth.
