Africa-Press – Uganda. Absa Bank Uganda, through its Business Club, has rolled out a nationwide series of Regional SME Forums, beginning in Masaka, Mbarara, and Fort Portal.
The initiative, delivered in partnership with Uganda Airlines, DHL, Grant Thornton, and Enterprise Uganda, is designed to equip entrepreneurs with practical skills, networks, and opportunities to strengthen their enterprises and position them for long-term growth.
SMEs are the backbone of Uganda’s economy, accounting for 90% of private sector employment and contributing over 80% of GDP (Uganda Investment Authority). UBOS data further shows SMEs generate 80% of manufactured output and employ over 2.5 million Ugandans.
“SMEs are innovative and resilient, but face persistent challenges from compliance to market access,” said Moses Rutahigwa, Retail and Business Banking Director at Absa Bank Uganda. “These forums connect business owners to partners who can help them expand, professionalize operations, and unlock new opportunities.”
Each partner brings a specialized theme to the forums. Grant Thornton is focusing on bookkeeping and tax compliance, guiding entrepreneurs to strengthen financial records and ensure sustainable growth.
DHL is addressing cross-border operations and supply chains, helping SMEs access international markets and build efficiency.
Uganda Airlines is enabling affordable business travel and trade linkages to bridge market gaps. Enterprise Uganda is focusing on succession planning, helping entrepreneurs build enterprises that outlive their founders.
By taking the forums beyond Kampala, Absa aims to ensure regional entrepreneurs benefit from expert engagement, tailored financial solutions, and direct networking opportunities.
The Absa Business Club, relaunched earlier this year, is anchored on four pillars: access to markets, knowledge and capacity building, networking and growth, and financial and non-financial services. Members access expert-led training, strategic partnerships, and global business opportunities.
Despite their contribution, SMEs in Uganda continue to struggle with access to finance, limited technical skills, and a complex regulatory environment (World Bank, 2024). Youth entrepreneurs are especially constrained by lack of capital, mentorship, and markets.
Through the Regional SME Forums, Absa and its partners are bridging these gaps—helping Ugandan entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses today and build enterprises capable of competing regionally and globally.
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