Equity Bank Uganda promotes cross-border investments between Ugandan and Kenyan business communities

Ugandans living and working in Nairobi are being encouraged to look beyond remittances and invest in structured investments that enable them to build wealth back home while growing their businesses across borders. The call was made during a Diaspora Investment Forum hosted by Equity Bank Uganda in partnership with the Uganda Network (UGNET) in Nairobi. The forum brought together Ugandan professionals, entrepreneurs and investors based in Kenya to explore investment opportunities in Uganda.

The forum featured several speakers who emphasized the importance of moving beyond remittances and building sustainable assets. UGNET Chair Dr Phionah Atuhebwe said the diaspora community has the potential to be a powerhouse of investment capital, professional expertise, innovation and global networks building wealth across borders. Equity Bank Uganda Executive Director Claver Serumaga said the bank's diaspora proposition was designed to support customers throughout their investment journey.

Richard Byarugaba, Equity Group Managing Director, Asset Management, delivered a keynote address urging participants to adopt disciplined wealth creation habits. He recommended saving consistently, diversifying investments, matching investments to future goals and working with regulated institutions. Byarugaba's remarks highlighted the importance of financial discipline in building sustainable wealth.

Equity Bank Uganda showcased a range of financial solutions tailored to the needs of Ugandans living and working abroad. These include diaspora savings and current accounts, investment and construction financing, insurance products, investment club accounts and foreign exchange services. The bank also highlighted its inter-country banking capability, which allows customers to access funds, make transfers and bank across Equity's regional footprint.

Senior Manager, International Banking and Cross-Border Payments, Winfred Warui, said customers could access accounts across markets where Equity operates while benefiting from competitive foreign exchange and international payment services. Warui emphasized that the bank's services are designed to make cross-border banking easier and more convenient for its customers.

The forum also highlighted the importance of trusted institutions and strong bilateral relationships in enabling diaspora investments and regional economic integration. Uganda's High Commissioner to Kenya, Eunice Kigenyi, underscored the importance of secure investment pathways for Ugandans living abroad. Kenya's Ambassador to Uganda, Ababu Namwamba, commended Equity for serving as a bridge between Ugandan and Kenyan business communities.

The diaspora investment forum is part of a larger effort to strengthen regional integration by connecting people, businesses, and opportunities across borders. The initiative aims to encourage diaspora members to channel their earnings into productive investments both back home and in their host countries. Equity Bank Uganda's efforts have been recognized as a key step towards promoting economic growth and development in the region.

Key points

• Equity Bank Uganda promotes cross-border investments between Ugandan and Kenyan business communities through its diaspora banking services.
• The bank's services are designed to support customers throughout their investment journey, from saving and investing to accessing funds and making transfers.
• The initiative aims to encourage diaspora members to channel their earnings into productive investments both back home and in their host countries.