Africa-Press – Uganda. Over 430 business leaders from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Mauritius, the UAE, Taiwan, and India gathered at Speke Resort Munyonyo for the fourth BNI Convention in Uganda.
Held under the theme “Beyond Borders: A Legacy of Collaboration, Growth, and Impact,” the event showcased the transformative power of strategic networking in driving economic expansion.
Marking its 10th anniversary, BNI highlighted Uganda’s growing role in regional and global trade, fueled by a 26% surge in merchandise exports to US$9.3 billion in the 12 months leading to March 2025.
With exports on the rise, the convention served as a platform to deepen regional integration through cross-border trade partnerships, providing SMEs with valuable insights into market trends, digital tools, and financing options.
As a key partner, Absa Uganda used the convention to reaffirm its commitment to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through its revamped Absa Business Club. Moses Rutahigwa, Retail and Business Banking Director at Absa, emphasized the bank’s dedication to supporting SMEs, which contribute 90% to Uganda’s private sector and over 80% to the country’s GDP.
“At Absa, we believe every journey is unique and every story matters,” Rutahigwa said.
“Our Business Club is a driving force in growing these stories by offering SMEs the tools, networks, and resources needed to thrive in Uganda’s fast-evolving economy and beyond.”
The strong turnout at the convention underscores the significant potential of collaborative initiatives to foster a thriving business environment, particularly for Uganda’s vital SME sector and the broader East African region.
Built on the pillars of strategic networking, expert advisory and training, tailored financial and non-financial services, and access to regional and global markets, the Absa Business Club operates on a partnership-driven model. Partners include Uganda Airlines, Grant Thornton Uganda, Prudential Uganda, DHL, and Enterprise Uganda.
Diana Ninsiima Kibuuka, National Director of BNI Uganda, highlighted the organization’s growth from just four members to a network of over 600 businesses.
“Our journey proves that when we work together, we go further. This convention reflects not only our growth but also our commitment to expanding opportunities across borders.”
Platforms like the BNI Convention play a crucial role in unlocking the region’s entrepreneurial potential by strengthening collaboration, sharing tools, and broadening networks for sustainable economic development.
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