DFCU Bank has expanded its presence in Western Uganda with the launch of its 55th branch in Fort Portal, aiming to enhance financial inclusion and support local businesses in the region.
The new branch, situated along Babiiha Road, was officially opened on 24 September 2025. The bank said it is designed to serve communities across the Tooro Sub-region, including Kabarole, Kyenjojo, Kamwenge, Bunyangabu, and Kasese districts.
Customers will have access to a comprehensive range of services, such as credit facilities, savings accounts, and tailored support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a particular emphasis on agriculture, tourism, and trade.
Kate Kiiza, executive director of DFCU Bank, highlighted the strategic importance of the expansion during the opening ceremony.
“For more than 60 years, dfcu Bank has been a partner in transforming lives and businesses across Uganda,” she said.
“The launch of our Fort Portal branch is a bold step in accelerating growth in this region, which is rich with opportunities in agriculture, tourism, oil, and trade. Beyond financial solutions, we are creating employment opportunities, supporting SMEs, and enabling families and communities to thrive. This investment reaffirms our belief in the immense potential of Western Uganda.”
Richard Rwabuhinga, LC V chairman for Kabarole, praised the development as a key milestone. “This branch positions Fort Portal as a rising economic hub,” he stated.
“With services ranging from savings and SME loans to agent banking, dfcu Bank is empowering traders, farmers, tourism operators, and families. This will accelerate the development of thriving businesses, enhance livelihoods, and strengthen our region’s role in Uganda’s growth story.”
Annette Kiconco, chief retail banking officer at DFCU Bank, emphasised the bank’s focus on key sectors.
“Our strategy centres on agriculture, trade, and business,” she explained. “Fort Portal is an agricultural powerhouse, and DFCU Bank is committed to supporting farmers, cooperatives, and agribusiness ventures with specialised solutions. We believe in channel optimisation – blending physical branches, digital platforms, and our extensive agent banking network to ensure no one is left behind.”
In addition to traditional banking, the branch has advanced digital services, including internet and mobile banking, alongside a nationwide network of over 20,000 agent banking outlets.
Established in 1964 as the Development Finance Company of Uganda, DFCU Bank has grown into one of the country’s leading financial institutions. It has supported major development projects and fostered entrepreneurship, maintaining a mission to transform lives and businesses through innovation and customer-focused services.
SMEs, which account for more than 80% of private-sector employment in Uganda, are a cornerstone of the Fort Portal economy, particularly in agribusiness, hospitality, and retail.
The bank’s expansion aims to provide these enterprises with affordable credit and advisory support to promote sustainable growth.
