How Equity Bank is Champoining Refugees to Flourish through Financial Inclusion

31 October 2025: Uganda stands tall as one of Africa’s leading hosts of refugees — a country that continues to open its doors to those fleeing conflict and hardship from across the region. But beyond the open borders, it is the nation’s open heart that truly defines Uganda’s refugee story. Among the institutions helping to turn that compassion into lasting empowerment is Equity Bank Uganda, which has steadily built a presence across all refugee camps with a bold mission: to turn displacement into opportunity.

According to the Managing Director of Equity Bank Uganda, Gift Shoko, the bank’s focus goes far beyond traditional banking.

“Through our social investment initiatives, we continue to collaborate with partners to deliver impactful programs such as financial literacy training and the promotion of entrepreneurship among refugees. To date, these efforts have empowered more than 20,000 entrepreneurs within the camps,” Shoko shared.

Across settlements like Nakivale, Kiryandongo, Bidibidi, and Rhino Camp, Equity has brought modern financial services right to the doorstep of refugee communities. What once seemed impossible — opening a bank account, accessing a loan, or running a business inside a refugee settlement — is now becoming a reality for thousands of families.

Through tailored financial literacy programs, refugees are learning how to save, invest, and manage their small businesses sustainably. Many have since started thriving enterprises — from tailoring and retail shops to agribusiness ventures — creating income not just for themselves but also for members of their host communities.

This transformation has been made possible through close collaboration between Equity Bank and humanitarian partners. The bank’s agent banking model, digital platforms, and mobile money solutions have made banking accessible even in remote settlements. Refugees can now access cash transfers safely, build a savings culture, and even qualify for small loans to expand their businesses.

For many, it’s more than just access to money — it’s access to dignity and hope. A once-marginalized population is now finding its voice in the economy, with financial independence giving them the confidence to shape their own future.

Equity Bank’s efforts have also benefited local Ugandan communities living around refugee settlements, fostering peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity. As Shoko puts it, the goal is simple: to empower everyone to participate meaningfully in economic growth.

 “We believe that financial inclusion is a fundamental human right,” she said. “When people — regardless of their status — are given the tools to create, innovate, and earn, entire communities begin to thrive.”

From humble beginnings in remote camps to vibrant micro-enterprises transforming lives, Equity Bank Uganda’s work with refugees is proof that impact banking can be both compassionate and commercially sustainable. In a world where displacement is often seen as a crisis, Equity is helping Uganda turn it into a story of resilience, partnership, and hope