Ugandans living abroad have been urged to channel part of the money they send home into businesses, property and other investments that can generate long-term income instead of using most of it for immediate household needs.
The call was made during an X Space hosted by Equity Bank Uganda on 30 September 2026 under the theme “From Remitting to Investing: Loan Opportunities for Ugandans in the Diaspora”.
Winfred Warui, Senior Manager for International Banking and Cross-Border Payments at Equity Bank, said more Ugandans in the diaspora are beginning to look beyond sending money to support their families and are instead seeking ways to build wealth back home.
“For several years, the focus has largely been on sending money home for immediate needs such as school fees, hospital bills and education expenses. But we are beginning to see more diaspora customers who want to build, invest and own assets in Uganda,” Warui said.
She said potential investments include property, agribusiness, government securities and other interest-bearing investments, depending on an individual’s financial goals and available resources.
Bob Paul Lusembo, Segment Head of Micro Business at Equity Bank, said diaspora earners face the challenge of balancing family obligations with the need to save and invest.
He said part of the money sent home could instead be used to acquire productive assets or establish businesses capable of generating income.
Lusembo identified clothing, food processing and distribution, retail, transport and logistics, equipment hire, hospitality and specialised services among the businesses that investors could consider.
He said agriculture also offers opportunities beyond farming, including storage, processing, packaging and distribution.
“The right entry point depends on what you can afford and where there is demand,” Lusembo said.
He said property was another option, with investors able to consider land, rental units, shops, offices and warehouses depending on their resources and market demand.
However, Lusembo cautioned Ugandans living abroad to conduct thorough due diligence before investing, particularly when buying land remotely.
He also advised existing business owners to consider financing productive assets rather than starting new businesses. Such assets could include vehicles, motorcycles and equipment used to generate income.
Warui said financial literacy was important in helping Ugandans in the diaspora make informed investment decisions.
“It starts with information and financial literacy,” she said.
She said Equity Bank provides relationship management, wealth and investment services to help customers living abroad identify opportunities that align with their financial goals.
Lusembo said the broader objective should be to move from using remittances mainly for consumption to using part of the money to create sustainable wealth.
“The mindset we are encouraging is a shift from consumption to investment, from investment to wealth creation, and from short-term gains to strategic assets and a lasting legacy,” he said.
For diaspora Ugandans, he said, such investments could eventually translate into established businesses, income-generating property and other assets that can support their families for years to come.
Warui added that Ugandans living abroad could also explore investment opportunities across East Africa, depending on their individual financial circumstances and objectives.
