On Friday, October 24, I&M Bank Uganda launched a new premium banking offering- the I&M Select Banking Sapphire Club, at the Kampala Serena Hotel.
Held under a casual luxe theme, the event was attended by the bank’s premium clients, members of the Diplomatic Corp from different countries, Buganda Kingdom officials, Bank of Uganda officials, I&M board and executive, distinguished guests, and partners.
The I&M Select Banking Sapphire Club offers respective members an exclusive private banking experience, that has been meticulously curated for individuals whose financial sophistication, lifestyle, and aspirations transcend the ordinary.
Membership offers an exclusive world of privilege and opportunity- think access to private banking suites at Kingdom Kampala, with additional suites underway at other branches.
It also comes with the I&M Bank World Elite Mastercard, that presents the customer with higher transaction limits, elite travel and hotel privileges, as well as exclusive lifestyle rewards. The bank will also extend other tailored benefits, like customized treasury solutions, bespoke wealth management- through I&M Capital, and offshore private banking- via Bank One in Mauritius, to the I&M Select Banking Sapphire Club members.
The membership will also present members with opportunities to access luxury global experiences, such as VIP access to Formula One events, with access to the Paddock Club, team lounges, luxury terraces, VIP garages, and the Champions Club. Football lovers will have the opportunity to attend live match days at the Santiago Bernabéu- the home of Real Madrid, where they will enjoy premium seating and exclusive access to VIP areas.
The bank also unveiled a special I&M Multicurrency Prepaid Card, that will offer members seamless and secure transactions across nine currencies.
According to I&M Bank CEO, Robin Bairstow, the I&M Select Banking Sapphire Club symbolizes a continuation of the bank’s commitment to deepening relationships with its premium clients, through tailored experiences and value-added services.
“We understand that the expectations of premium clients go beyond traditional products and services. That’s why we develop initiatives that reflect their ambition, complement their lifestyle, and celebrate the success they have worked hard to achieve,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Kihara Maina, the Regional I&M Bank Group CEO, commended I&M Bank Uganda for consistently crafting customer-centric initiatives, noting that this is especially important because customers are the heartbeat of everything the institution does.
“Uganda is a key market for I&M Group, as it contributes significantly to our regional presence and future growth plans. The launch of the I&M Select Banking Sapphire Club is a major step for Uganda and the entire group, as it reinforces our commitment to serving clients whose success drives broader economic progress. We understand that when they thrive, the financial environment strengthens, creating more opportunities for everyone,” he said.
I&M Bank Board Chairman- Francis Kamulegeya, re-echoed that all the bank’s plans are guided by the vision of being Uganda’s leading financial partner for growth, which means being the top choice for customers, employees, and investors.
“This commitment to a customer-centric model ensures that every solution we offer, including the I&M Select Banking Sapphire Club, is designed to meet the evolving needs of our clients,” he said, adding: “Our presence in the Ugandan market is built on resilience, innovation, and customer focus. As part of the I&M Group, we bring regional expertise, strong governance, and a legacy of excellence spanning decades.”
Mr David Kalyango, the Executive Director, Supervision and Regulation at Bank of Uganda, who represents the Governor- Michael Atingi-Ego, applauded I&M Bank for consistently innovating with the aim of elevating the financial services sector.
“I&M Bank has been consistent about innovations. This new innovation is a testament of its commitment to building deeper and more personalized relationships with its select clientele. By offering exclusive benefits and money-can’t-buy experiences, the bank is setting a new benchmark in customer appreciation and loyalty. Bank of Uganda welcomes innovations that enhance customer trust and service standards, while also contributing to a vibrant and competitive banking sector,” the Governor’s message read in part.
Annette Nakiyaga, the bank’s head of marketing and corporate communications, highlighted that the bank is intentional about creating value for clients across different segments.
“At the heart of everything we do is our brand promise- ‘We’re On Your Side.’ The I&M Select Banking Sapphire Club brings this promise to life. We are excited for the journey ahead, and we look forward to continuing to serve our premium clients with exceptional experiences, and innovative solutions to support their business plans,” she said.
Clients or individuals interested in joining the I&M Select Banking Sapphire Club should contact the bank through its various social media channels, or visit any branch to get more details.
At the peak of the evening, the bank’s CEO- Bairstow, invited the group CEO- Kihara, and the Board Chairman- Mr Kamulegeya, and they officially unveiled the new I&M Bank Multicurrency Prepaid Card.
This particular card is accepted at Mastercard ATMs, point-of-sale terminals, and online., and one does not require a bank account or credit history to load funds on the card.
The card’s multi-currency feature supports up to nine currencies, including UGX, US Dollars, Euros, and British Pounds, with each currency is held in a separate wallet.
