UN Women, Equity Bank Uganda sign deal to boost women’s financial inclusion
Under the partnership, the two institutions will jointly roll out programmes designed to improve financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and digital inclusion, while widening access to affordable financial products and services
KAMPALA, April 2, 2026 — UN Women and Equity Bank Uganda Limited have signed a partnership agreement aimed at strengthening women’s economic empowerment and expanding access to inclusive financial services across Uganda.
The collaboration, signed yesterday at the bank’s head office at Church House in Kampala, sets out a two-year strategic framework running from April 2026 to March 2028. It will focus on equipping women—particularly those in underserved and refugee-hosting communities,with financial tools, business skills, and access to sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Under the partnership, the two institutions will jointly roll out programmes designed to improve financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and digital inclusion, while widening access to affordable financial products and services.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, UN Women Deputy Country Representative Adekemi Ndieli underscored the importance of private sector partnerships in advancing gender equality.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that women, especially those in underserved and vulnerable communities, have the tools, resources, and opportunities to thrive economically. By working together, we can accelerate progress towards inclusive growth and sustainable development,” Ndieli said.
On behalf of the bank, Managing Director Gift Shoko said the initiative aligns with Equity’s broader mission of promoting inclusive finance.
“Equity Bank Uganda is proud to partner with UN Women to dismantle barriers that prevent women from achieving economic autonomy. Our commitment goes beyond financial products. We are offering training, digital literacy, and clean energy solutions to ensure women can compete and succeed in today’s economy,” Shoko said.
He added: “We believe inclusive finance is the foundation of inclusive growth. Together, we will empower women to transform their enterprises and their communities.”
The partnership will focus on expanding access to savings, credit, and digital banking solutions for women and underserved populations, alongside delivering financial literacy and entrepreneurship training. It will also support women-led agribusinesses and cooperatives, promote clean energy financing for low-income and rural households, and strengthen social protection and resilience in refugee-hosting areas.
As part of the arrangement, UN Women will provide technical expertise, policy guidance, and community mobilisation support, while Equity Bank Uganda will deliver tailored financial products, training, and advisory services. Implementation will be guided by a joint work plan with clear targets and measurable outcomes.
The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of women across Uganda by improving access to finance, expanding business opportunities, and strengthening their participation in economic development.
It will also support women entrepreneurs to tap into opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area, enabling them to access wider regional markets, scale their enterprises, and play a greater role in driving economic growth.
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