Jinja, District – Centenary Bank, in partnership with the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development handed over two newly constructed homes and 50 mattresses to selected vulnerable elderly beneficiaries in Jinja City.
The initiative was part of the national commemoration of the International Day for Older Persons under the theme “Enhanced Household Income: A Key to Dignity and Respect for Older Persons.”
The main event was graced by the Vice President of the Republic of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Jesscia Alupo, other Honourable Ministers, Members of Parliament, the Elderly Council members, Jinja City Administration leaders and community members. This significant occasion highlighted collective efforts to address the housing and social needs of older persons, aligning with Centenary Bank’s mission to transform lives through financial inclusion and community support.
Over 300,000 elderly persons from the 146 districts in Uganda have so far benefited from this project, with more than 80 billion Uganda Shillings being paid out annually under the SAGE Program. Centenary Bank has, in turn adopted biometric enrollment, digital payment tracking and beneficiary education to improve service efficiency and reduce payment risks during the process of account opening, enrollment and payment.
Speaking at the houses handover on the 30th of September, Mr. Moses Oroto, the Chief Manager Public Sector in Centenary Bank, said the Bank’s contribution is part of Centenary Bank’s broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) agenda. “For over 40 years, the Bank has worked to transform lives, not just through financial services, but also through initiatives that uplift communities such as these.” He added.
On this foundation, every year, the bank dedicates 2% of the previous year’s profit to corporate social investment for initiatives like health, education, waste management, environmental conservation and other community initiatives.
“Older persons are the custodians of wisdom, culture and the values that define our society. Yet some of them, particularly the vulnerable, face challenges in accessing decent shelter and necessities. Centenary Bank is therefore privileged to hand over these homes to elderly persons here in Jinja to serve as symbols of care and dignity,” he said.
Hon. Dominic Mafwabi Gidudu, Minister of State for Elderly under the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, underscored the vital role of social protection and commended the partnership between the Government of Uganda and Centenary Bank in supporting vulnerable citizens. The Minister also commended Centenary Bank for its contribution and emphasised the need for continued unity and cooperation to improve the lives of all citizens.
“To our beneficiaries and their families, you are the reason we are here. Your stories inspire us and we hope these homes and donations bring you joy, security, and a renewed sense of belonging”, Mr Oroto concluded.
In addition to the houses, Centenary Bank donated 50 mattresses with protective covers to vulnerable elderly persons in Jinja City during the International Day for Older Persons celebrations.
The bank’s contribution to the Older Persons aligns with its broader Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) agenda. For 40 years, the Bank has worked to transform lives, not just through financial services, but also through initiatives that uplift communities.
That is why every year, it dedicates 2% of the previous year’s profit to corporate social investment for initiatives like health, education, waste management, environmental conservation and other community initiatives.
