Equity Bank Uganda has been named Corporate Business of the Year at the African Business Chamber (AfBC) African Business Awards 2026, in recognition of its contribution to financial inclusion, diaspora banking, cross-border trade, and investment facilitation across Africa.
The award was presented during a gala dinner held on May 29, 2026, at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.
The event brought together more than 300 policymakers, business leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, and members of the African diaspora to celebrate organisations and individuals contributing to Africa’s economic growth.
Organised by the African Business Chamber, a United Kingdom-based organisation that promotes trade, investment, and commercial ties between Africa, the UK, and the global African diaspora, the awards recognise institutions that are creating sustainable economic impact across the continent.
The recognition highlights Equity Bank Uganda’s growing role in connecting Ugandans living abroad with investment opportunities at home.
The bank has also expanded financial services that support businesses, entrepreneurs, and communities operating across borders.
Speaking after receiving the award, Damalie Balungi, Manager for Diaspora and International Banking at Equity Bank Uganda, said the recognition reflects the bank’s commitment to helping Ugandans abroad remain connected to opportunities in their home country.
“The diaspora community remains one of Uganda’s most important development partners. Beyond remittances, Ugandans living abroad are investing in businesses, real estate, education, agriculture, and long-term wealth creation back home. Our role is to provide the financial solutions and support they need to achieve these goals wherever they live,” Balungi said.
Over the years, the bank has developed a range of products aimed at simplifying banking and investment for diaspora customers.
These include the Diaspora Savings Account, which allows customers to bank from anywhere in the world without minimum balance requirements or monthly maintenance fees. Customers also have access to Visa debit card services.
The bank also offers mortgage and equity release products that enable customers to access financing of up to 70 per cent of the value of their property. The funds can be used for business expansion, property development, education, and other investments.
Diaspora customers can also invest in government securities, including Treasury Bills and Treasury Bonds, providing them with opportunities to participate in Uganda’s economic growth.
Winfred Warui, Senior Manager for International Banking and Cross-Border Payments, said the bank remains focused on removing barriers that prevent Ugandans abroad from investing at home.
“We continue to see growing interest from Ugandans in the diaspora who want to invest, start businesses, acquire property, and participate in opportunities back home. Our focus is to provide seamless international banking solutions and personalised support to help them make informed financial decisions,” Warui said.
Equity Bank Uganda said it will continue investing in technology-driven banking solutions that promote financial inclusion, support enterprise growth, and contribute to socio-economic transformation in Uganda and the wider region.
