Equity Bank Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to driving small and medium enterprise (SME) growth with the 3rd regional edition of its “Tupange Business Ne Equity” engagement series, held in Fort Portal.
The event brought together entrepreneurs, traders, and community leaders to network, share insights, and chart a stronger future for regional business.
Building on the success of earlier forums in Arua and Mbale, the Fort Portal gathering focused on listening to customers, addressing challenges faced by SMEs, and exploring practical solutions. Equity Bank staff and business experts guided discussions that empowered participants with knowledge and strategies to strengthen their ventures.
“At Equity Bank, we value each and every customer and are committed to giving them dignity in whatever aspect of life they do business,” said Felix Babeiha, Branch Manager, Fort Portal.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Alex Ariho (PhD)—Chief Executive Officer of the African Agribusiness Incubators Network (AAIN) and Founding Director of Excel Hort Consult Agribusiness Incubator Limited (EHCAI)—urged SMEs to embrace innovation, skills development, and collaboration. He emphasised that SMEs account for 90% of global businesses and, if well supported, could generate up to 80% of Uganda’s employment opportunities. “If you succeed, the economy succeeds,” Prof. Ariho noted, encouraging entrepreneurs to prioritise value addition, resilience, and a growth mindset.
Olivia Mugaba, Head of SMEs at Equity Bank Uganda, reiterated the central role of SMEs: “SMEs are the backbone of our economy, driving transformation in Uganda and beyond. Together, we must support and strengthen this backbone of our economy.”
Reflecting on the bank’s evolution, Moses Wanok, Head of Retail – Corporate Banking at Equity Bank Uganda, highlighted customer-centric growth: “Equity Bank’s journey has always been guided by our customers. Over the years, we have taken deliberate steps to listen closely to their feedback. Through an internal clean-up and accountability exercise, we have enhanced service delivery to better meet their needs, because customer feedback is at the heart of everything we do.”
The event also recognised outstanding business leaders from the region. The SME Ecosystem Customer Award was presented to Mubunga Samuel, Managing Director of Mubunga Investments Multipurpose Co. Ltd., a distributor for Uganda Breweries Limited in Bundibugyo and Ntoroko districts. The SME Customer Loyalty Award went to Prof. Edward Bitanywaine Rugumayo of Tooro Botanical Gardens, while the SME Business Influencer Award was given to Rt. Rev. Bishop Reuben Kisembo of the Rwenzori Diocese. These honours highlighted the role of leadership, loyalty, and influence in building stronger business ecosystems.
Closing the event, Catherine Psomgen, Director of Public Sector and Social Investments at Equity Bank Uganda, underlined the bank’s holistic approach: “At Equity, we support the entire value chain—from anchor businesses to the smallest players—ensuring that everyone grows together. We are committed to walking with you on your growth journey.”
With its Tupange Business Ne Equity campaign, Equity Bank continues to position itself as a trusted partner for SMEs, fostering resilience, innovation, and sustainable growth across Uganda.
