The United Bank for Africa (UBA) is once more showing why it is one of Africa’s finest banks. This time it is the spotlight’s turn on Uganda, a nation brimming with untapped potential and an increasingly strong desire for economic transformation. UBA Executive Director and CEO for Africa Abiola Bawuah is in Kampala’s city center for three days, and her agenda is as clear as day: to deepen UBA’s commitment to Uganda’s growth and development. But this isn’t the typical corporate visit—it is a brazen demonstration of partnership, innovation, and shared vision of a brighter tomorrow. Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” stands at the crossroads of its economic growth.

With a large youth population, abundant natural resources, and a central location in East Africa, the country is poised for investment and growth. However, challenges such as restricted access to capital for small enterprises, the need for digitalization, and economic inclusion remain top of mind. Come in UBA, a bank that has consistently demonstrated its ability to innovate, evolve, and enable society. Bawuah’s tour is a testament to the confidence UBA has in Uganda’s future and its determination to become a vital part of the country’s economic story.

UBA’s Road to Uganda: From Humble Roots to Widespread Influence UBA began in Uganda in 2008 when the bank established its first branches in Kampala and Jinja. Fast forward to 2025, and UBA’s presence is now in every corner of the country—Central, West, East, and North. The spectacular growth is a testament to the bank’s resilience to bounce back, remain agile, and stay resolute in its commitment to serving the people of Uganda.

But UBA’s presence does not remain limited to physical growth alone. The bank has been the trendsetter when it comes to offering innovative financial solutions tailored to the unique needs of its customers. Whether corporate and retail banking or trade finance and treasury services, UBA has been a reliable partner for the individual, entrepreneur, or even the government entity as well.

One of the highlights of Bawuah’s visit is her attention to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs are the pillars of Uganda’s economy, generating a vast majority of employment and economic activity. Yet most of these companies cannot access the funding and capital they need to grow and prosper.

UBA is joining in to bridge the gap. Under its partnership with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the bank is providing SMEs with trade finance access, capacity-building initiatives, and markets within the region. This is not merely a question of providing the funds—it’s about empowering Ugandan entrepreneurs to compete globally.

“UBA is committed to innovation and customer satisfaction,” Bawuah stated during a press briefing with journalists on 17/02/2025 at Serena Hotel in Kampala. “In UBA, the customer comes first (C1st). We will continue to invest in cutting-edge technology and tailored financial solutions to meet the unique needs of our Ugandan customers.”

In a rapidly digitalizing world, UBA is leading the way in Uganda’s banking sector. The bank has embraced technology to provide seamless, secure, and easy banking services to its clients. From mobile banking apps to online payment platforms, UBA is enabling its clients to access their funds anywhere, anytime.

This focus on digital transformation is particularly significant in Uganda, where there is high mobile penetration but limited access to traditional banking. With the application of technology, UBA is not only deepening banking services but also driving financial inclusion across the country.

Bawuah’s visit is not just a confirmation of UBA’s devotion to Uganda—it’s a glimpse into the future. The bank is constructing a more prosperous and inclusive Uganda through the promotion of SMEs, digital transformation, and economic integration.

But it is UBA’s focus on partnerships that most sets the bank apart. Bawuah’s engagement with government ministers, business leaders, and clients is a testament to the bank’s belief in partnership. By operating in tandem with stakeholders at all levels, UBA is not only growing its footprint in Uganda but also helping the country as a whole toward its economic ambitions.

At its core, UBA’s purpose is simple: to put the customer first. It is this philosophy, incarnate in the bank’s C1st credo, that is expressed in everything that it does. From innovative financial solutions, to personalized customer service, to community outreach efforts, UBA is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of its customers.

As the visit of Bawuah comes to an end, one thing is certain: UBA is not just a bank; it’s a partner, a driver, and a source of hope for Uganda’s future. With its undying commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and economic growth, UBA is poised to be a force in Uganda’s financial future for years to come.

And what does the future hold for UBA in Uganda? The limit is the sky. As her own words went so perfectly put, “We are here to stay, and we are here to grow with Uganda.” And if her tour is anything to go by, brighter times ahead are in prospect. With UBA as a partner, Uganda is set well towards realizing its maximum potential as a thriving economic titan in Africa.