FEATURE STORY : In Northern Uganda, entrepreneurship is often a story of resilience and determination, rising above limited capital, fluctuating markets, and long distances from financial institutions. For many business owners, progress depends not only on hard work but also on finding a lender willing to walk the journey with them. Recent Customer Open Forum sessions across FINCA Uganda branches highlighted how responsive financing is helping entrepreneurs build and sustain their livelihoods.
One inspiring example comes from Mr. Milton Okello Ebek from Lira, a businessman in agribusiness, distribution and logistics. Milton first discovered FINCA Uganda through social media and later visited the website to learn about the loan products. After reviewing the information, he confidently approached the branch, a decision that became a turning point. He recalls receiving follow up within days, something he had never experienced before. From an initial facility of 15 million UGX, he later qualified for 48 million UGX, 65 million UGX and most recently 85 million UGX. These funds allowed him to expand from agribusiness into beverage distribution and later logistics, where he now operates two 12-ton trucks serving the wider Lango region. Milton shared that he has already influenced about 20 people to join FINCA Uganda, becoming a strong advocate for a lending approach that rewards consistency and genuine ambition.
Grace Badaru from Arua shared a similar story. Operating in Odia Trading Centre, about seven kilometres outside town, she runs a thriving business dealing in maize, beans, cassava and sorghum. She was drawn to FINCA’s simple application process and quick feedback. With this support, she increased her stock, met customer demand and strengthened her position in a competitive agricultural market. Like Milton, she values requirements that reflect the realities of rural business owners who depend on trust, community relationships and steady turnover rather than heavy collateral.
These and many other stories were captured during the Customer Open Forum sessions. The gatherings brought together clients from various branches, branch staff and members of management from the Head Office. They provided an opportunity to listen to clients, understand their experiences, learn about the challenges they face and explore ways to support them even more effectively. The atmosphere was very positive. Many clients spoke about FINCA Uganda’s reliability, flexibility and personal attention that makes them feel valued. They shared how the loans have sustained their businesses, kept their children in school and offered peace of mind during financial challenges.
These journeys highlight the growing confidence among small business owners in Northern Uganda, who are finding room to grow through responsive and timely financial support. Their experiences demonstrate the power of access. When entrepreneurs receive support at the right moment, they create opportunities not only for themselves but also for the communities around them.
Responding to client feedback across the region, Eva Balikowa, Chief Commercial Officer, reaffirmed FINCA Uganda’s commitment to this path. She stated that the institution remains focused on providing efficient, flexible and inclusive financial solutions that help businesses thrive and communities prosper.
