MBALE CITY – The launch of a new regional office by Uganda Development Bank Limited in Mbale City marks a transformative step toward bringing financial services closer to communities and unlocking the vast economic potential of Eastern Uganda.
Strategically located at Plot 1, Masaba Road, the Eastern Regional Office is more than just a new branch, it is a critical bridge between underserved communities and the financial resources needed to drive inclusive growth. It will directly serve sub-regions including Elgon, Teso, Bukedi, Busoga, and Karamoja, areas rich in agricultural and entrepreneurial potential but historically constrained by limited access to affordable, long-term financing.
By establishing a physical presence in Mbale, UDB is positioning itself at the heart of local economic activity, enabling faster, more responsive support to businesses, cooperatives, and entrepreneurs. The office will provide both financial and advisory services, helping communities not only access capital but also build the skills and knowledge needed to grow sustainable enterprises.
Speaking at the launch, Managing Director Dr. Patricia Ojangole emphasized the broader impact of the move: strengthening UDB’s national mandate while ensuring that development financing reaches the communities that need it most. She highlighted Eastern Uganda’s untapped opportunities in agriculture, infrastructure, and tourism—sectors that, if properly financed, could significantly boost incomes and regional productivity.
Local leaders welcomed the development as a long-awaited catalyst for change. Mbale District Chairperson Muhammad Mafabi noted that while the region has strong agricultural foundations, particularly in coffee production—farmers have long struggled with limited processing capacity and access to affordable credit. The new office, he said, will empower farmer groups and cooperatives to invest in better equipment, improve product quality, and access higher-value markets.
Beyond agriculture, the office is expected to energize small and medium enterprises, especially manufacturers who often lack patient capital to expand. With UDB offering loan tenors of up to 15 years, businesses now have a realistic pathway to scale operations, invest in machinery, and create jobs.
The Mbale office is part of UDB’s broader expansion strategy to deepen financial inclusion nationwide. Previously operating from Kampala, Gulu, and Hoima, the Bank is now extending its reach with additional regional offices in Mbale, Arua, and Mbarara—ensuring that development financing is not centralized but accessible across Uganda.
This expansion comes at a time of strong institutional growth. In 2025, UDB’s assets rose by 24% to UGX 2.28 trillion, alongside the approval of 120 projects projected to create over 33,000 jobs. These investments are expected to generate significant economic returns, including trillions in output, profits, tax revenue, and foreign exchange.
