Equity Bank Uganda, part of Equity Group, has launched a comprehensive staff audit to address unethical employee behaviour, Bbeg Media has learned.
Sources told us that the bank that has 50 branches and hundreds of employees in Uganda, intends to tackle issues such as extortion, rudeness, negligence, and collusion with customers to defraud the institution.
The ongoing audit in Uganda, which began recently, follows allegations of misconduct against several employees. On Monday, affected staff were formally notified and asked to respond to claims supported by evidence like customer feedback and CCTV footage.
Many have reportedly acknowledged their misconduct, opting not to contest the allegations.
We have been told that the process, which will cover employee conduct over the past two years, will adhere to principles of natural justice. Employees found innocent will retain their positions, while those guilty face termination.
We have been told that in a recent meeting, Equity Group’s CEO, Dr. James Mwangi, emphasized the audit’s importance.
“We are committed to cleaning up our operations to deliver better outcomes for our customers, investors, and shareholders across East Africa,” Mwangi said.
Building on Success in Kenya
The Uganda audit follows a similar successful initiative in Kenya, where Equity Bank terminated approximately 200 employees found guilty of misconduct.
That process, also designed to ensure fairness, addressed issues like extorting customers and soliciting tips for free services, which had harmed the bank’s reputation. The Kenya audit strengthened customer trust and operational integrity, serving as a model for the Uganda clean-up.
The banking industry traditionally favours secrecy to avoid disruptions, with bodies like the Uganda Bankers Association advocating discreet handling of misconduct.
But Equity Group appears to have chosen to break from this convention.
Dr. Mwangi said staff audits will become a regular practice across Equity Group, to ensure long-term customer trust and operational excellence.
He said by addressing issues like negligent loan assessments and rude customer interactions, the bank aims to create win-win outcomes for all stakeholders.
