By Mulengera ReportersOn Tuesday, 2nd September 2025, Equity Bank Uganda held its Tupange Business Ne Equity campaign at Nyaika Hotel in Fort Portal, bringing together traders, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to discuss how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can drive regional and national growth.
The campaign, which has already been held in Arua and Mbale, is designed to help business owners access financial support, share experiences, and learn new ways to grow. In Fort Portal, the discussions centred on how SMEs can overcome challenges such as limited access to markets, financing, and skills development.
Professor Alex Ariho, the Chief Executive Officer of African Agribusiness Incubators Network and Director of Excel Hort Consult Agribusiness Incubator, delivered the keynote message, explaining that SMEs make up about 90% of global businesses and could provide up to 80% of Uganda’s employment if properly supported. He encouraged entrepreneurs to prioritise innovation, skills development, value addition, and collaboration so they can remain resilient and competitive.
The Bank officials also shared their perspectives, with Felix Babeiha, the Branch Manager in Fort Portal, explaining that the Equity Bank places dignity and customer value at the centre of its operations, which is why the SME campaign was rolled out across regions.
Olivia Mugaba, the Head of SMEs at Equity Bank Uganda, stressed that SMEs form the backbone of Uganda’s economy and that their transformation is central to national development.
Robert Wanok, the Head of Retail and Corporate Banking, reflected on the Bank’s own journey, saying that the institution has been shaped by deliberate efforts to listen to customer feedback. He noted that the bank carried out an internal clean-up and accountability exercise, which has improved its service delivery and allowed it to respond better to the needs of SMEs.
Catherine Psomgen, Director of Public Sector and Social Investments, emphasised the bank’s inclusive approach, explaining that Equity supports the entire value chain, from large anchor businesses to the smallest enterprises, ensuring that growth is shared across all players.
The event also honoured outstanding contributors to the local business community, with Mr. Mubunga Samuel of Mubunga Investments Multipurpose Co. Ltd receiving the SME Ecosystem Customer Award for his role in distribution in Bundibugyo and Ntoroko districts. Prof. Edward Bitanywaine Rugumayo of Tooro Botanical Gardens was recognised with the SME Customer Loyalty Award, while Rt. Rev. Bishop Reuben Kisembo of Rwenzori Diocese was named SME Business Influencer.
These awards underlined the importance of leadership, loyalty, and mentorship in building stronger local economies. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
