FORT PORTAL- Equity Bank Uganda has reaffirmed its dedication to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through its ongoing nationwide campaign, “Tupange Business Ne Equity.” The latest regional engagement took place in Fort Portal, bringing together entrepreneurs, traders, and local leaders for a day of networking, knowledge sharing, and empowerment.
Following earlier successful events in Arua and Mbale, the Fort Portal session marked the third stop in the campaign, which is designed to provide critical financial and advisory support to SMEs across the country. Attendees participated in interactive discussions focused on overcoming business challenges and unlocking growth opportunities.
“Our customers are at the core of everything we do,” said Felix Babeiha, Branch Manager at Equity Bank Fort Portal. “We are committed to supporting them with dignity in every business venture they undertake.”
The event featured a keynote address from Prof. Alex Ariho (PhD), CEO of the African Agribusiness Incubators Network (AAIN) and Founding Director of Excel Hort Consult Agribusiness Incubator (EHCAI). He emphasized the importance of innovation, skills development, and collaboration, noting that SMEs make up 90% of businesses globally and could generate up to 80% of employment in Uganda if properly supported.
“If you succeed, the economy succeeds,” Prof. Ariho told participants, urging them to focus on value addition, resilience, and cultivating a growth-oriented mindset.
Olivia Mugaba, Head of SMEs at Equity Bank Uganda, reinforced this message by calling SMEs the “backbone of the economy.” She encouraged stakeholders to continue working together to strengthen and grow the sector, both locally and nationally.
Reflecting on the bank’s progress, Moses Wanok, Head of Retail – Corporate Banking at Equity Bank Uganda, spoke about how customer feedback has shaped the institution’s services. “We have carried out internal clean-ups and accountability exercises to better align our operations with our customers’ needs,” he said.
To recognize leadership and loyalty within the SME ecosystem, Equity Bank presented several awards:
Mubunga Samuel, Managing Director of Mubunga Investments Multipurpose Co. Ltd., received the SME Ecosystem Customer Award. His company is a key distributor for Uganda Breweries Limited in the Bundibugyo and Ntoroko districts.
Prof. Edward Bitanywaine Rugumayo of Tooro Botanical Gardens was honored with the SME Customer Loyalty Award.
The SME Business Influencer Award was presented to Rt. Rev. Bishop Reuben Kisembo of the Rwenzori Diocese, recognizing his impactful role in the regional business community.
Catherine Psomgen, Director of Public Sector and Social Investments at Equity Bank Uganda, concluded the event by highlighting the bank’s commitment to inclusive growth. “We support the entire value chain—from anchor businesses to the smallest entrepreneurs. Our goal is to grow together, ensuring no one is left behind,” she said.
