CPA Gloria Tuhaise Wakooba, Director of Procurement and Disposal at the Bank of Uganda, has been named CPA of the Year 2025 at the 10th Accountancy Service Awards held at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel on Friday evening.
For the first time, the awards were hosted as a stand-alone event, marking a decade of recognising exceptional talent, leadership, and impact in accounting.
With more than 17 years of exemplary service in auditing, governance, and leadership, Wakooba has shaped institutions, mentored accountants, empowered women and youth, and championed social causes.
“Her knowledge-sharing, council service, and ethical leadership make her an inspiring role model,” ICPAU tweeted, recognising her outstanding contribution to the profession.
CPA Wakooba, who also serves as Deputy Director of Administration and Head of Innovation Hub at the Bank of Uganda, said she was honoured by the recognition. “This award reflects not just my work but the collective effort of my colleagues and mentors who have supported professional growth and excellence in our sector,” she said.
“I want to express my gratitude for this incredible honour. Receiving this award feels like a divine calling, much like a calling to service,” Gloria said.
She paid tribute to her husband of 23 years, adding, “He has truly been the wind beneath my wings, supporting me through every challenge, from late-night studies to caring for our children while I pursued my CPA and ACCA.”
Gloria also acknowledged her professional community, stating, “To my fellow members of ICPAU, I celebrate you — your encouragement helped me achieve my goals.” She concluded, “What I do is my way of giving back, and I am so thankful for all the opportunities I have been given.”
Achievers Across the Profession
Young Accountant of the Year – CPA Stephen Muchelule of Grant Thornton Uganda, recognised for mentoring peers, designing audit manuals, teaching CPA courses, and serving on ICPAU panels.
Woman Accountant of the Year – CPA Irene Mwoyogwona, Head of Finance at Pride Bank and President of Rotary Club of Najjera, honoured for transformative leadership and community service.
Finance Team of the Year – Quality Chemical Industries Limited, celebrated for transparency, ethics, innovation, and driving consistent organisational growth.
Institutional Partner of the Year – MAT Abacus Business School, acknowledged for shaping the future of accountancy through practical training and leadership development.
Unique Humanitarian Service Award – Ms Ann Ssebunya, recognised for her Drugs Hapana initiative, advocating for mental health and drug abuse prevention.
Media Personality of the Year – Mr Deogratius Habimana of UBC TV, lauded for decades of impactful reporting that has elevated the visibility of the profession.
Accounting Firm of the Year – Abdul & Associates, honoured for digital innovation, service expansion, and mentoring CPA talent.
CPA Sandra Batte, Chair of the Members’ Service Committee, reflected on the awards’ growth: “From its beginnings in 2015 as part of the Annual Seminar, the ASA has evolved into a premier platform celebrating excellence, innovation, and impact in accountancy. Each awardee exemplifies professional integrity, leadership, and a commitment to shaping the next generation of accountants.”
CPA Derick Nkajja, who opened the evening, reminded attendees: “Winning an award should inspire reflection – how does it enhance your performance and impact your team? Excellence is sustained through vigilance, transparency, and accountability. Wherever you see actions undermining the principles of accountancy, report them.”
The #ASAwardsAt10 not only celebrated individual and team achievements but also reinforced the role of accountants in driving organisational growth, professional standards, and societal impact across Uganda.
