Kampala — UN Women and Equity Bank Uganda Limited have signed a new partnership agreement aimed at strengthening women’s economic empowerment and expanding access to inclusive financial services across the country.
The agreement, signed at Equity Bank’s boardroom at Church House in Kampala, sets out a two-year collaboration running from April 2026 to March 2028. It targets women across Uganda, including those in refugee-hosting communities, with initiatives focused on financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods.
Under the partnership, the two institutions will jointly implement programmes to improve financial literacy, promote digital inclusion, and enhance access to affordable financial products and services for women.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Adekemi Ndieli underscored the role of partnerships in advancing gender equality. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that women—especially those in underserved and vulnerable communities—have the tools, resources, and opportunities to thrive economically,” she said. “By working together, we can accelerate progress toward inclusive growth and sustainable development.”
On his part, Gift Shoko said the bank is committed to breaking barriers that limit women’s economic participation.
“Equity Bank Uganda is proud to partner with UN Women to dismantle barriers that prevent women from achieving economic autonomy,” Shoko said. “Our commitment goes beyond financial products—we are offering training, digital literacy and clean energy solutions to ensure women can compete and succeed in today’s economy.”
He added that inclusive finance remains central to economic transformation. “We believe inclusive finance is the foundation of inclusive growth. Together, we will empower women to transform their enterprises and their communities,” he said.
Focus areas
The partnership will focus on expanding access to savings, credit and digital banking services, particularly for women and underserved groups. It will also deliver training in financial literacy, entrepreneurship and digital skills, while supporting women-led agribusinesses and cooperatives.
In addition, the initiative will promote clean energy financing solutions for low-income and rural households and strengthen social protection systems, especially in refugee-hosting regions.
Under the arrangement, UN Women will provide technical expertise, community mobilisation and policy support, while Equity Bank Uganda will deliver tailored financial products, advisory services and capacity-building programmes.
Officials said the partnership is expected to benefit thousands of women by increasing their access to finance and strengthening their participation in economic activities, including opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The initiative is also seen as a step toward enhancing women’s role in driving inclusive growth and regional trade.
