ARUA, UGANDA – Equity Bank Uganda is reaffirming its commitment to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Arua through its “Tupange Business Ne Equity” nationwide series. The event, held under the theme “Financing Integrated Value Chains and SME Growth,” brought together business owners, community leaders, and partners to discuss growth opportunities and financial strategies.
Charles Orodriyo, the Branch Manager of Equity Bank Arua, welcomed participants and highlighted the bank’s vision of transforming lives and societies. “At Equity Bank, we want to transform lives and communities. I encourage entrepreneurs in Arua to embrace change and grow both in their businesses and in their personal lives,” Orodriyo said.
Robert Wanok, the bank’s Head of Retail Banking, delivered the executive address, emphasizing the institution’s Pan-African vision through its Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan. Wanok said the bank operates on a three-pillar model of commercial banking, social impact through the Equity Foundation, and sustainability. He identified agriculture, mining, manufacturing, trade, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as key sectors for Uganda’s economic growth.
Regional Manager for Business Growth and Development Peter Ssemakalu used a Northern Uganda saying—”a goat can feed a family, but only if it does not eat your crops”—to illustrate how businesses can generate value with the right guidance and financial support.
Keynote speaker Draecabo Trinity Ceasar, Chairperson of the Ayivu Development Agency, advised SMEs to build strong relationships with their bankers, stressing the importance of regular engagement. He urged business owners to pay attention to detail, cooperate with others, manage resources carefully, commit to learning and find the right partners for long-term success.
A panel discussion brought to light the challenges facing local SMEs, including a lack of value addition to raw produce, poor record-keeping, and weak market linkages. Speakers encouraged value chain integration, financial literacy, and partnerships to help address these issues.
The bank also showcased various financial solutions for SMEs, including Easy Stock Financing, Grain Trader Financing, Easy Float Financing, Asset and Vehicle Financing, and unsecured credit.
The event concluded with the SME Awards 2025, which recognized outstanding clients in the Greater North region. Madi West-Nile Diocese received the SME Business Influencer Award, Cress Africa Foundation Limited won the SME Customer Loyalty Award, and Kuluva Hospital was honored with the SME Ecosystem Customer Award.
