Equity Bank empowers salon entrepreneurs with business skills
KAMPALA, February 25, 2026 — Equity Bank Uganda has trained more than 120 salon entrepreneurs in Kampala and surrounding districts, equipping them with essential business skills including leadership and record-keeping.
The participants trained are members of the Federation of Uganda Salons and Beauty Professionals Association [FUSPRO], drawn from across the country.
The association, which has more than 120,000 members, operates chapters in all districts of Uganda and is fully registered by the government as the umbrella body representing beauty industry workers.
Equity Bank said it seized the opportunity to work with salon owners to help them build sustainable businesses, strengthen their saving culture and improve their access to financial services.
Bob Paul Lusembo, Head of Micro Business at the bank, encouraged participants to embrace saving as a foundation for growth.
He emphasised that consistent saving, proper record-keeping and participation in group lending schemes can enhance business stability.
He also highlighted specialised loan products such as EquiMama, tailored specifically for women entrepreneurs.
“Through disciplined saving and proper record-keeping, you are able to track the journey of your business over time,” Lusembo said. “This makes it easier to access financial support and other facilities that can help you expand.”
Penny Kamanyire, Chairperson of the federation, called on the bank to organise more training sessions to further empower members.
“As a federation, one of the key gaps we face is financial literacy,” Kamanyire said. “We need more training in business management, strengthening our collective voice and professionalising our craft to ensure sustainability.”
Participants were also advised to formalise their businesses in order to improve their eligibility for financial support from banks and other development partners.
Juliet Nambawa, who runs a salon in Kabowa, said the training had given her renewed confidence.
“Business has been challenging, and with few customers it has sometimes been difficult to know how best to manage what we earn,” she said. “Now, after this training, I have gained practical skills, especially in keeping proper records and managing my books.”
Manjeeri Kagoya, a salon owner in Nakawa Division struggling with rent arrears and utility bills, said the training had restored her hope.
“This programme has given us knowledge and courage,” she said. “If the bank considers extending small loans to us, we can recover and grow. With the skills we’ve gained, we are better prepared to manage our businesses effectively.”
While each participant faces unique challenges, many cited low customer turnout, high cost of supplies, rent arrears and local government licensing fees as common obstacles affecting their operations.
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