By Mulengera Reporters
At a time when many Ugandans struggle to access quick and affordable financing during emergencies, Equity Bank has unveiled a range of lending solutions that could transform how salaried workers manage their finances.
Speaking during the launch of the School Bridge Financing initiative at Hotel Africana on Tuesday 23rd June, 2026, Equity Bank’s Head of Personal Banking, Johnson Galabuzi, said the bank had simplified access to credit for salary earners, enabling them to obtain loans almost instantly through digital channels and streamlined approval processes.
Galabuzi revealed that customers who receive their salaries through Equity Bank can access instant digital loans of up to Shs5 million directly from the bank’s mobile application. He said the facility was designed to help customers address urgent financial needs without resorting to friends, relatives or informal lenders.
According to the bank, salaried workers can also access salary advances of up to Shs50 million even when their employers do not have formal financing arrangements with the bank. The only requirement is that salaries must have been consistently remitted through an Equity Bank account for at least three months.
Galabuzi noted that the bank recognizes the value of stable employment and seeks to leverage that relationship to provide customers with greater financial flexibility.
The announcement was welcomed by many teachers, school administrators and proprietors who attended the event, with several expressing optimism that quicker access to financing could help them address both personal and institutional financial challenges.
Beyond short-term borrowing, Equity Bank also highlighted reforms aimed at reducing the time customers spend seeking loans. Galabuzi explained that the bank had simplified personal loan processing by reducing paperwork and accelerating approvals.
Under the new approach, customers can complete applications and approvals much faster than before, with funds disbursed directly to their accounts shortly after processing.
The bank further emphasized its commitment to consumer protection and regulatory compliance. Galabuzi said Equity Bank operates under strict oversight by the Bank of Uganda and adheres to regulations designed to ensure transparency and fairness in lending.
He assured customers that the bank does not impose hidden charges and that all products are subject to regular review and monitoring by regulators.
Another feature highlighted during the event was the bank’s decision not to charge monthly ledger fees on personal accounts. Galabuzi said the policy reflects Equity Bank’s long-term approach to customer relationships and financial inclusion.
The bank also outlined its capacity to provide larger financing packages for qualifying customers. Galabuzi disclosed that individuals with sufficient security and repayment capacity can access loans of up to Shs1 billion.
He encouraged professionals, particularly those in the education sector, to view access to credit as an opportunity for investment and wealth creation rather than merely a source of emergency funds.
For customers interested in growing their savings, the bank showcased several investment and savings products, including digital savings accounts, fixed deposits, treasury bills and treasury bonds. The products are designed to help customers earn returns on idle funds while keeping their money secure.
Equity Bank also pledged to expand financial literacy programmes targeting schools and educational institutions. The sessions, offered free of charge, are intended to equip teachers and administrators with skills in personal financial management, savings and investment planning.
The launch of the School Bridge Financing initiative underscored the bank’s growing focus on the education sector, which remains one of the country’s largest employers and a critical pillar of economic development.
For many participants, the event highlighted a broader shift in banking, where financial institutions are increasingly leveraging technology and simplified processes to bring services closer to customers.
As access to credit becomes faster and more convenient, Equity Bank believes salaried workers will be better positioned to respond to emergencies, invest in opportunities and improve their long-term financial well-being.(For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
