The 2026 Stanbic Economic Forum will focus on how Uganda can strengthen its competitiveness and position itself in a rapidly changing global economy as the country approaches the start of commercial oil production.
The forum, themed: “Uganda’s Inflection Point: Competing in a Rewired Global Economy”, will be streamed live on Stanbic Bank’s YouTube channel on February 12 from 8.30am.
According to a press release from the bank, the discussions will centre on Uganda’s readiness to attract investment, manage geopolitical risks and align public policy with private capital at a time of heightened global economic uncertainty.
Uganda is expected to begin commercial sales of its crude oil reserves in western Uganda before the end of the year, a development projected to accelerate economic growth but also expose the country more directly to global market shocks.
The bank said the forum will feature insights from Jibran Qureishi, Standard Bank Group’s head of Africa regions economic research, who will analyse regional and global economic trends shaping Africa’s growth outlook.
Bethuel Karanja, head of global markets at Stanbic Bank Uganda, said the forum comes at a critical moment when coordinated action between government, business and investors is needed.
“As the country approaches this inflection point, platforms like the Stanbic Economic Forum are essential in fostering dialogue that supports informed decision-making, long-term investment and economic transformation,” Karanja said.
He said the forum reflects the bank’s commitment to convening thought leadership and partnerships that support Uganda’s development agenda.
“As a leading financial institution, Stanbic Bank plays a key role in mobilising capital, supporting trade and infrastructure, and enabling businesses to scale competitively within the region and beyond,” he said.
For the past five years, Stanbic Bank has brought together public and private sector stakeholders to assess Uganda’s economic prospects and policy priorities.
This year’s forum will bring together policymakers, business leaders and economic experts to examine national planning priorities, emerging investment opportunities and the role of capital in driving business competitiveness and sustainable growth.
