Centenary Bank backs women’s economic growth at 2025 forum
Uganda’s largest microfinance lender has reaffirmed support for female business owners during a gathering examining barriers to commercial success. Centenary Bank participated in the 2025 Women’s Enterprise Conference, which assembled entrepreneurs, government officials and development organizations to address obstacles facing women in trade.
Managing Director Fabian Kasi told attendees that the institution serves more than three million clients, with many accounts held by women seeking to establish financial independence. The bank operates specialized programs like the SupaWoman Account, offering a monthly interest at 2 percent along with business connections and training in money management. GROW Loans provide flexible terms at reduced rates while agriculture financing helps female farmers improve production across various sectors.
Government research from 2024 found that women-owned small and medium enterprises score below national benchmarks on entrepreneurship measures due to limited property ownership, restricted credit availability and cultural constraints. Centenary Bank addresses these challenges through partnerships such as its collaboration with the Africa Guarantee Fund to increase capital access. The lender maintains over 8,000 agents across the country to reach rural areas and provides instruction on budgeting, digital banking and investment strategy.
