Yearly Archives: 2025

Kampala, Uganda — Opportunity Bank Uganda proudly marks a transformative milestone this evening with a celebratory dinner, commemorating 30 years of empowering underserved communities through inclusive finance, digital innovation, and a steadfast commitment to dignity and opportunity for all. Established in 1995 as a small microcredit initiative, the Bank has since evolved into a fully licensed Tier II Credit Institution, now serving over 520,000 customers across Uganda. Over the past three decades, Opportunity Bank has built a reputation as a trusted financial partner—delivering accessible, customer-centric solutions to individuals, families, and businesses traditionally excluded from mainstream banking, while championing financial inclusion as a catalyst for long-term social and economic transformation.

At the commemorative 30th Anniversary Dinner held at Mestil Hotel in Kampala, Opportunity Bank Uganda was honored to host an esteemed group of guests: Professor Augustus Nuwagaba, Deputy Governor of the Bank of Uganda; Mr. Atul Tandon, CEO of Opportunity International U.S.; Mr. Dan Murray, President & CEO of Opportunity International Canada; Anke Luckja, CEO of Opportunity International Germany; Mrs. Mary Oakes, CEO of Opportunity International UK; and Ms. ABi Nana François, CEO of Opportunity Microfinance Investments Ltd. Hosting alongside these global leaders were Mrs. Jacqueline Kobusingye Opondo, Chairperson of the Bank’s Board of Directors. They were joined by development partners, loyal clients, long-serving staff, and board members—each of whom has played an instrumental role in building the Bank’s enduring legacy of transformative impact.

From its very first location at Namirembe Branch—now known as City Branch—Opportunity Bank has expanded to a network of 25 branches across all four regions of Uganda. These branches are more than service points; they are centers of possibility, resilience, and renewal for the communities they serve.

Guided by a powerful mission and vision, the Bank exists to provide innovative, inclusive, and technology-led financial solutions that transform lives—particularly for smallholder farmers, refugees, women, youth, schools, and persons with disabilities. Its vision is clear: a Uganda where everyone can live a life free from poverty, with dignity and purpose.

In line with its mission to serve the underserved, the Bank yesterday Thursday 14/08/2025 opened its 25th branch in Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement, Kamwenge District. Home to over 110,000 refugees, Rwamwanja becomes the second refugee-hosting location to benefit from tailored Opportunity Bank services—following the landmark Nakivale branch. The Rwamwanja branch, launched on August 14, offers specialized credit, digital banking, and financial literacy for both refugees and host communities, with a focus on agriculture, the region’s primary livelihood.

Over the years, Opportunity Bank has built a legacy of impact. It currently supports more than 19,000 refugees, 21,000 smallholder farmers, 40,000 persons with disabilities, and finances 1,510 schools—all while maintaining over UGX 175 billion in savings and a loan portfolio of UGX 165 billion. Through its bancassurance partnerships with 10 leading insurance providers, the Bank helps secure brighter futures for families and small businesses with affordable, reliable insurance products.

Digital transformation has also played a critical role in expanding access. With 520 agent bankers, the Opportunity Mobile App, and internet banking launched in 2022, customers now enjoy fast, secure, and convenient tools—such as instant interbank transfers—bringing modern financial services closer to rural communities than ever before.

Leadership

“We’re not just commemorating 30 years of banking—we’re celebrating 30 years of changing stories,” said Owen Amanya, CEO of Opportunity Bank Uganda. “From refugees rebuilding their lives to women leading small businesses, from rural schools to persons with disabilities—we exist for the people who have been told ‘no’ too many times. We are proud to be their ‘yes’.”

Customer’s remarks

One of those stories belongs to Evans Senabulya, Founder and Director of Ridgeway Schools, who turned to Opportunity Bank during a defining moment.

“Opportunity Bank gave us a loan when no bank could offer us one. They believed in our dream before anyone else did,” said Senabulya. “Today, we have over four Ridgeway Schools, strong, high-level infrastructure, and thousands of students. Their support was more than financial—it was the reason we’re here today.”

Opportunity Bank’s leadership in inclusive banking is also reflected in its pioneering work with refugees. In 2021, it became the first commercial bank to open a branch in Nakivale Refugee Settlement, and in 2025, it expanded to the Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement—delivering dignified, accessible financial services to thousands of forcibly displaced people and host communities.

 “Our story is one of people, not profits,” added Owen Amanya. “As we look to the future, we remain committed to being a force for good in Uganda’s financial sector—offering not just services, but partnership, respect, and hope.”

As the Bank celebrates this 30-year journey, it also takes this moment to extend its deepest appreciation to the partners, NGOs, donors, and stakeholders who have stood alongside it in service of a more inclusive financial future.

Rwamwanja, Kamwenge District, Western Uganda – Opportunity Bank Uganda Limited, in partnership with Opportunity International UK, has today opened its 25th branch in Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement, reinforcing its commitment to expanding financial inclusion for both refugee and host communities in Kamwenge District. The new branch was officially launched by Mrs. Mary Oakes, CEO of Opportunity International UK, alongside Mr. Owen Amanya, CEO of Opportunity Bank Uganda, and Ms. Jacqueline Kobusingye Opondo, Chairperson of the Bank’s Board of Directors.

With Rwamwanja Settlement now home to over 110,000 refugees as of June 2025, this strategic expansion underscores the Bank’s dedication to scaling refugee
financing—delivering relevant, dignified, and empowering financial services that promote resilience and long-term economic independence.

Opportunity Bank Uganda currently serves over 19,000 refugees across Uganda, having disbursed more than UGX 4 billion in refugee-focused loans. The new branch builds on the Bank’s pioneering work in Nakivale, where it became the first commercial bank to open a branch inside a refugee settlement. The Rwamwanja branch affirms the Bank’s role as a purpose-driven institution bridging the gap between humanitarian response and sustainable development.

“The opening of our Rwamwanja branch is more than a business milestone—it’s a reaffirmationof our commitment to walk alongside this community as they rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose,” said Mr. Owen Amanya, CEO of Opportunity Bank Uganda. “Our experience in Nakivale has shown us that when refugees are equipped with the right financial tools, they become powerful contributors to economic growth. We’re proud to extend that opportunity here in Rwamwanja.”

The primary economic activity in the Rwamwanja settlement is agriculture. The new branch will provide specialized access to credit for agricultural inputs and small-scale agribusinesses, while also supporting women-led groups, youth enterprises, and financial literacy for both refugees and the host community.

“Opportunity International UK is incredibly proud to support this vital initiative,” said Mrs. Mary Oakes, CEO of Opportunity International UK. “Our partnership with Opportunity Bank Uganda continues to demonstrate how community-rooted financial solutions can drive long-term change. Together, we are enabling both refugees and host communities to build secure, dignified, and prosperous futures.”

“As Chairperson of the Board, I am proud to witness Opportunity Bank living out its mission withpurpose,” said Ms. Jacqueline Kobusingye Opondo, Board Chairperson of Opportunity Bank Uganda. “Rwamwanja represents more than a branch—it is a place where dignity meets determination, and where resilience is met with opportunity. We are deeply grateful to all our partners for walking this journey with us.

”The Rwamwanja branch will offer a full suite of services, including credit facilities, mobile and digital banking, financial literacy training, and community-focused support programs. These services will empower both refugees and host community members to start and grow businesses, invest in education, and build sustainable livelihoods. Opportunity Bank Uganda extends its sincere appreciation to its valued partners—the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), which generously provided land and infrastructure for the branch, UNHCR, and all other stakeholders—whose trust, collaboration, and support have made this milestone possible.

Kampala, Uganda – Sunday, August 10, 2025 – As Opportunity Bank Uganda marks 30 years of service, it celebrates this milestone with its annual charity run held this morning at the Bank’s Head Office in Kamwokya, with participants conquering both 10km and 5km routes. Held under the inspiring theme, “Planting Hope, Growing Change, Greening the Future,” the event reaffirmed the Bank’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and social impact—core pillars of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. The Opportunity Bank Run is more than just a fitness event—it’s a nationwide movement uniting the community to raise awareness about climate change, promote environmental conservation, and support reforestation efforts across Uganda.

Greening Uganda’s Future: A Growing Legacy

Since May 2024, Opportunity Bank has been at the forefront of environmental action. In partnership with the Lukango Tree Conservancy (LuTreeCo), the Bank launched a ground-breaking national school greening initiative to plant indigenous trees and cultivate environmental stewardship among Uganda’s youth. This has enhanced environmental awareness among students and improved school landscapes through the planting of indigenous trees.

Key Achievements to Date:

• Over 3,000trees planted across 66 targeted schools
• 3,000+ students directly involved in tree-planting activities
• Schools reached all over the 4 regions of Uganda

From flood-prone Soroti to drought-affected Kikuube, the initiative has successfully tackled diverse ecological challenges while promoting biodiversity and climate resilience in school environments.

Empowering Uganda’s Future Environmental Stewards;

Owen Amanya – Chief Executive Officer, Opportunity Bank Uganda

“The trees we’re planting today are more than just saplings—they are seeds of hope, symbols of resilience, and commitments to lasting change. They embody this year’s powerful theme: Planting Hope, Growing Change, Greening the Future.

At Opportunity Bank Uganda, we believe that sustainability begins at the roots—in our schools, where we also proudly support access to quality education through our School Improvement Financing Program, in our youth who will inherit this planet, and in the choices, we make every day as individuals and as institutions.

The Opportunity Bank Run is more than a fitness event. It is a national movement—a call to action for every Ugandan to take part in protecting our environment while building healthier, more resilient communities.

The urgency is clear: Uganda loses an estimated 90,000 hectares of forest every year, and our national forest cover has declined from 24% in 1990 to just 9.5% today. This is not just a loss of trees—it’s a threat to our biodiversity, water security, and climate stability.

But we are not powerless. Each tree we plant can absorb up to 22 kilograms of CO₂ per year, restore degraded landscapes, and support hundreds of species. Through our reforestation efforts—driven in partnership with the Lukango Tree Conservancy—we are working to reverse this trend: one tree, one school, one community at a time.

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to every student who planted a seedling, every teacher who led by example, every runner who showed up, and our sponsors & partners who believed in this cause—thank you. You are all part of this growing movement.

Together, let us continue to run with purpose, plant with intention, and grow a future we can be proud of.

One tree. One child. One future. That’s the promise of Opportunity Bank Uganda.”

Proceeds and awareness raised through the Opportunity Bank Run directly support ongoing initiatives, including the expansion of the school greening program and broader community-led conservation efforts.

Opportunity Bank Uganda extends heartfelt appreciation to all runners, families, schools, and corporate partners who participated in this transformative event. Whether you ran, walked, or cheered, your involvement helps plant hope, grow change, and green the future of Uganda.

Opportunity Bank and Turaco Partner to Embed Health Insurance into Savings Accounts with ‘Opportunity Sanyu’

Affordable microinsurance now available to Ugandan saversprotecting families from medical and burial expenses.

KAMPALA, 5th June 2025 – Opportunity Bank Uganda, in partnership with Turaco Microinsurance, has launched Opportunity Sanyu an affordable health and life insurance product now embedded directly into Opportunity Bank’s savings accounts. The product is designed to protect Ugandan families from the financial stress of hospital visits and bereavement without the hassle of traditional insurance sign-ups.

The product name ‘Sanyu’, which means “joy” in Luganda, represents the peace of mind that comes when a family’s savings are protected even during life’s hardest moments.

A New Chapter for Financial Protection in Uganda

Over 60% of Ugandans rely on savings or borrowing to pay for healthcare, often derailing long-term plans like school fees or business investments. Opportunity Sanyu tackles this head-on by making microinsurance accessible, automatic, and truly affordable, starting at just UGX 2,000 per month.

What Customers Get:

• Hospital Cash Benefit: UGX 200,000 to UGX 1 million per year
• Funeral Cover: UGX 500,000 to UGX 2 million
• Effortless Access: Embedded into savings accounts, just give consent & the cover activates
• Hassle-Free: Premiums deducted automatically, no paperwork or separate sign-ups

“Our customers’ savings are their future,” said Owen Amanya, CEO of Opportunity Bank Uganda. “But one health emergency can take it all away. With Opportunity Sanyu, we’re helping our customers stay on track and build resilience through banking that truly protects.”

Fast Claims. Real Relief.

Turaco’s tech-driven systems ensure fast, paper-light claims, making insurance truly work when it’s needed most. Similawo Resty, a Turaco customer, shared: “When I was admitted to the hospital, I feared for my health and how I’d pay. Turaco came through for me. I could settle my bill and repay those who helped. I’m so grateful.”

“Opportunity Sanyu is what inclusive insurance should look like embedded, simple, and ready when emergencies arise,” said Cedrick Todwell, Director of Business Development at Turaco. “Together with Opportunity Bank, we’re bringing dignity and financial stability to households across Uganda.”

Since 2019, Turaco has partnered with banks, fintechs, and mobile operators to insure over 4 million people across Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana with more than 1 million lives covered in Uganda alone.

Opportunity Sanyu is now available to Opportunity Bank customers nationwide. Anyone with a deposit account can visit their nearest branch to activate coverage and join the movement towards secure, protected savings.

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A Night of Triumph! Opportunity Bank Shines at Bank of Uganda’s ACF Awards, Taking Home 9 Prestigious Honours

It was a night to remember! With immense pride and excitement, Opportunity Bank Uganda is thrilled to celebrate an extraordinary milestone—scooping 9 out of 16 major awards at the highly anticipated Bank of Uganda Agricultural Credit Facility (ACF) Awards, held last evening at the Sheraton Hotel, Kampala.

The event marked 15 years of the transformative ACF loan scheme, which has powered Uganda’s agricultural finance landscape. The awards recognized financial institutions that have gone above and beyond in accelerating economic development through innovative and inclusive agricultural lending.

And the big winner? Opportunity Bank.

From the start, Opportunity Bank stood out—proving once again that commitment to underserved communities and bold leadership in financial innovation can drive real, lasting impact. This victory isn’t just a celebration of past efforts; it’s a powerful declaration of what’s possible when purpose meets performance.

A CLEAN SWEEP OF AWARDS – HERE IS WHAT WE WON: