KAMPALA, Kampala — Pearl Bank Uganda has announced strong financial results for the year ending December 31, 2025, marking its first full-year performance since rebranding from PostBank Uganda. The results highlight steady growth, rising customer confidence, and a clear shift toward digital banking, positioning the institution as one of the fastest-growing banks in the country.
The bank recorded a net profit after tax of UGX 47.3 billion in 2025, up from UGX 35.4 billion in 2024. This represents a 34 percent increase, driven by higher interest income, better use of assets, and careful cost management. The performance reflects a bank that is becoming more efficient while expanding its footprint in Uganda’s financial sector.
Customer trust in Pearl Bank continued to grow significantly during the year. Deposits rose sharply to UGX 1.42 trillion, compared to UGX 990 billion in 2024. This 43 percent growth indicates increasing confidence among customers in the bank’s services and stability. The rise in deposits has also strengthened the bank’s ability to extend credit to businesses and individuals, supporting economic activity across the country.
One of the standout developments was the rapid growth of the bank’s digital platform, Wendi. Deposits held in Wendi wallets increased more than five times, reaching UGX 240.5 billion from UGX 45.5 billion the previous year. This surge shows how quickly customers are adopting digital financial services and highlights Pearl Bank’s success in expanding financial inclusion through technology.
Total income for the year rose to UGX 298 billion, supported by strong performance in lending, investments, and other income streams. At the same time, the bank maintained a strong capital position, with a capital adequacy ratio of 24.87 percent, well above regulatory requirements. This provides a solid cushion for future growth and stability.
Managing Director Julius Kakeeto attributed the results to the bank’s strategy of building a national, impact-driven financial institution. He explained that Pearl Bank has aligned its operations with government development priorities, including Uganda’s long-term economic growth plans. According to him, the bank is focused on expanding financial inclusion and supporting entrepreneurship, while offering practical financial solutions that improve the daily lives of Ugandans.
Kakeeto noted that the growth in deposits reflects strong customer confidence, while the rapid adoption of Wendi demonstrates how digital platforms can transform access to financial services. He emphasized that the bank’s goal is not only to remain profitable but also to stay relevant to the needs of ordinary Ugandans.
The 2025 financial year was also marked by significant expansion in the bank’s balance sheet. Total assets grew by 31 percent to UGX 1.87 trillion, supported by prudent risk management and strategic investment decisions. The loan portfolio increased to UGX 749 billion, showing the bank’s continued commitment to lending despite a challenging environment characterized by rising interest rates. In addition, the bank contributed UGX 32 billion in taxes, reflecting its role in supporting national development.
Board Chairman Andrew Otengo Owiny described the rebranding from PostBank Uganda to Pearl Bank as a major milestone in the institution’s transformation journey. He explained that the transition is nearly complete and has already helped position the bank as a modern, impact-driven commercial institution aligned with Uganda’s development agenda. He credited shareholders for their support and confidence throughout the process.
Government officials also welcomed the bank’s performance. Finance Minister Matia Kasaija said the results reflect the broader strength of Uganda’s economy, noting that growth across sectors such as agriculture, industry, and services is creating opportunities for financial institutions. He encouraged Pearl Bank to increase lending to productive sectors, emphasizing that access to credit is essential for driving the next phase of economic transformation.
State Minister for Finance Evelyn Anite praised Pearl Bank as a successful homegrown institution and urged it to compete more aggressively, both locally and regionally. She highlighted the bank’s strong customer base, alignment with government priorities, and ability to innovate as key advantages that can help it challenge larger multinational banks.
Beyond financial performance, Pearl Bank continued to deliver significant economic and social impact. The bank disbursed UGX 340 billion in agricultural loans, supporting over 11,000 farmers and boosting rural livelihoods. It also extended UGX 398 billion to micro, small, and medium enterprises, helping nearly 18,000 businesses grow and create jobs. Through its support for microenterprises and participation in programs like the Agriculture Credit Facility, the bank is playing a key role in strengthening Uganda’s real economy.
On the social side, Pearl Bank has expanded financial inclusion through its Wendi platform, which now operates with over 10,000 agents across thousands of parishes and sub-counties. The platform has facilitated transactions worth over UGX 1.2 trillion and supports thousands of SACCOs, bringing financial services closer to communities.
The bank also received several recognitions during the year, including sustainability certification from a European organization, awards for agricultural and SME lending, and continental recognition for Wendi as a leading digital wallet.
Looking ahead, Pearl Bank appears well-positioned for continued growth. With a strong financial base, increasing customer trust, and a rapidly expanding digital ecosystem, the bank is entering its next phase with confidence. Its leadership believes that by maintaining profitability, expanding access to financial services, and supporting key sectors of the economy, Pearl Bank will continue to create long-term value for customers, shareholders, and Uganda as a whole.
