KAMPALA – Equity Bank has launched the second edition of its “Abakyala Ku Ntiiko” (Women on the Summit) initiative, aimed at empowering women in Uganda’s micro and small-scale business sector.
The event, held in Kampala Wednesday, brought together hundreds of female entrepreneurs, financial experts, and industry leaders under the theme “Accelerating Action For Prosperity in Business.”
Equity Bank Managing Director Gift Shoko emphasized the importance of networking and financial empowerment for women, stating, “We believe that when women are financially empowered, they uplift families and communities as a whole.”
The initiative seeks to address challenges faced by women in managing finances, including multiple responsibilities and systemic barriers such as gender discrimination, according to Laura Bahemuka, Equity Bank Head of Micro Segment.
The bank offers tailored products like the “Equi-Mama” suite, providing financial planning, investment advice, and insurance coverage, including medical insurance covering maternal health and long-term illness.
“One of our important target markets is women,” Bahemuka said, highlighting the need for financial independence to support families and communities. “We realized that it is not good to keep pumping our clients with money without taking them through basics such as saving, budgeting, loan management. Therefore, we participate in grooming each of them in the management of whatever business one invests in.”
The event featured testimonials from women who benefited from the previous edition. Ms. Jane Nalubowa, who runs about four different businesses, cited improved financial management and business growth: “I learned how to manage my finances better and access affordable credit. Today, my business has grown, and I am now employing more women in my community.”
According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), nearly 40 percent of small and medium-sized enterprises in Uganda are owned by women.
Equity Bank has established credit facilities since 2021, supporting over 400,000 women and youth with financial training, networking, mentorship, insurance, and unsecured financing.
The bank emphasizes financial literacy training for women and youth, recognizing the importance of basic financial management skills, Bahemuka said.
Following the Kampala launch, regional events are scheduled for Masaka (March 18), Iganga (March 21), Lira (March 25), and Kiboga (March 28).
