I&M Bank Uganda has launched its new thematic campaign,- ‘On Your Side,’ aimed at reaffirming its commitment to being an empathetic financial partner that understands customers and provides the right support through every stage of their journeys.
The campaign, unveiled on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the Kampala Serena Hotel, will feature a special podcast series- ‘A Chat with the I&M Bank CEO,’ hosted by I&M Bank Uganda CEO- Robin Bairstow.
The first episode of the podcast featured Uganda’s Olympic gold medallist and world record holder- Joshua Cheptegei, as the first guest. Cheptegei was also unveiled as the face of the campaign.
The campaign, launched first in Uganda, will spread to the other markets where the I&M Group has presence, with the aim of bringing the bank’s brand promise- ‘On Your Side,’ to life, by demonstrating that banking is about more than transactions.
Through the campaign, I&M bank is deliberately showcasing that banking is about understanding customers, building trusted relationships, providing the right solutions to help individuals and businesses move forward, and making a meaningful difference in the communities they serve.
Speaking at the launch, Bairstow noted that the campaign reflects I&M Bank’s belief that success is strengthened by the right support and partnerships.
“Every journey is different, but one thing remains constant: people need a trusted partner who understands their goals, believes in their ambitions, and stands with them through every stage of their journey. That is what ‘On Your Side’ represents,” he said.
He added that the bank’s commitment goes beyond banking, to support for initiatives in areas such as health, education, refugee assistance and other community needs.
“I&M Bank believes that the prosperity of business and society is closely connected. By playing our part in supporting communities, we contribute to a stronger and more inclusive future for all,” said Bairstow.
Bairstow also announced a three-year partnership between I&M Bank and the Joshua Cheptegei Foundation, that will see the bank work with the athlete to fulfill his community initiatives that align with its Corporate Social Responsibility pillars.
Cheptegei, who just won the Durban 10K- in South Africa, over the weekend, was honored with a standing ovation at the event, hosted by sports pundit Andrew Kabura.
Sports journalist- Allan Darren Kyeyune, took the audience through a very emotional summary of his experience covering Cheptegei at different commotions, across the globe, for the last twelve years.
Speaking at the event, Cheptegei thanked I&M Bank for the partnership and emphasised the importance of using success as an opportunity to make a difference beyond the sporting arena.
“Every journey requires support, belief and people who genuinely stand by you. My story has been shaped by many people who believed in me and encouraged me to keep going. I also believe that success is not only about what we achieve, but also about the difference we create for others. That is why the message behind ‘On Your Side’ is one that I connect with,” said Cheptegei.
“I’ve had the opportunity to learn more about I&M Bank, and one thing that stood out to me is how intentional they are about supporting people, whether it’s through solutions for individuals, businesses or initiatives that uplift communities. It’s encouraging to partner with an institution that is committed to helping people move forward while also investing in causes that create lasting impact. I’m excited about what we’ll achieve together over the next three years,” Cheptegei added.
The I&M Group Head of Marketing and Communications, Mary Githinji, said the ‘On Your Side’ campaign reflects the Group’s commitment to delivering a consistent customer experience across all its markets. She noted that while each country has its own unique dynamics, the group is focused on ensuring that customers receive the same quality of service, support and value wherever they interact with the Bank.
“On Your Side is more than a campaign. It is a commitment to how we serve our customers every day. Our ambition is to ensure that every customer enjoys the same high standard of service across all our markets. Whether you walk into an I&M Bank branch in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania or Mauritius, you should experience the same dedication to understanding your needs and helping you achieve your goals.
Our promise to be on your side does not end with this campaign. It is a commitment that will continue to guide how we serve our customers wherever they interact with us,” she said.
Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at I&M Bank Uganda, said the campaign reflects the Bank’s broader role in supporting economic and social progress through responsible banking and community investment.
“Uganda has a diverse and dynamic customer base, and our approach has always been to understand the different needs and aspirations of the people we serve. Through On Your Side, we are bringing together the different ways I&M Bank engages with customers and communities, while showcasing the partnerships and initiatives that continue to strengthen our role in Uganda’s growth story,” she said.
Nakiyaga also shared that the ‘A Chat with the I&M Bank CEO’ podcast series will feature different individuals in each episode, who will share experiences, challenges, lessons, and the people and partnerships that have shaped their journeys and enabled them to support others.
The podcast can be accessed on I&M Bank’s YouTube channel.
