BNI Uganda Marks 10 Years of Transforming Business Through Networking

This year marks a significant milestone for Business Network International (BNI) in Uganda; a decade of fostering trust-based business relationships, empowering small and medium

enterprises (SMEs), and redefining the power of referral-based marketing. Over the last 10 years, BNI Uganda has steadily grown from a single chapter into a vibrant network of 14 active chapters with over 600 entrepreneurs, professionals, and business owners committed to helping each other grow. 

From its modest beginnings in 2015, BNI Uganda has become a critical driver of business referrals, professional development, and local enterprise expansion. This structured networking platform has empowered members to build relationships, close deals, and access markets beyond their own industries and borders.

The Visionary Behind the Movement

At the helm of BNI Uganda is Diana Ninsiima Kibuuka, National Director and a passionate advocate for collaborative business growth. With a background in law and a flair for business, Diana took up the BNI Uganda franchise with a clear vision: to create a vibrant, values-driven network that transforms how Ugandans do business.

“When we first introduced BNI to Uganda, most people thought it was another rotary-style club or social group. It took time to show them that BNI is a serious, results-oriented business platform. Today, our results speak for themselves,” Diana explains. “BNI is not just about networking, it’s about creating a culture of intentional business relationships—relationships that lead to growth, learning, and long-term success. We train members to become better at giving and receiving referrals, while helping them become more confident leaders and entrepreneurs.”

Under her leadership, the organization has seen exponential growth, especially in the last five years. Chapters have opened in Kampala and Entebbe, with plans to expand to Mukono, Jinja, Mbarara and other parts of the country.

“Ten years ago, we started with a few visionary business owners in a hotel conference room,” Diana recalls. “Today, we are a strong community of over 600 members who generated billions of shillings in closed business last year alone. It’s been an incredible journey.”

Business by Referral – The BNI Model

BNI operates on a unique philosophy: Givers Gain®. If you help others grow their business, they will help you grow yours. Every week, members meet in their respective chapters to exchange qualified business referrals, learn through training moments, and strengthen professional bonds.

The format is structured but engaging – each member gets 30-40 seconds to pitch their business and request specific referrals. Weekly presentations, testimonials, and performance tracking add a layer of accountability that many say makes the difference.

“BNI is not a chit-chat session,” explains Ranjith Kumar, of Elite Digital Solutions, the largest Apple authorized reseller in East Africa, and member number 001 in BNI. “It is focused networking. It keeps you sharp, consistent, and visible. Basically, be intentional! I’ve received referrals I would never have accessed on my own.”

BNI Uganda members have generated billions of shillings in business over the years. In 2024 alone, members across the 14 chapters passed over UGX 95 billion worth of closed business, a figure that showcases the power of referrals. Real Businesses. Real Growth.

The impact of BNI on local businesses is undeniable. For many members, BNI has provided not just leads, but game-changing business partnerships, supplier relationships, and market access across East Africa.

Sharon Musiime, founder of Freshly Kleen Cleaning Services, joined BNI 5 years ago while still a start up in business. Since then her business has grown and her services cover both residential and commercial spaces. “Before BNI I relied on word of mouth from a limited circle. But now 70% of the business I get is generated through BNI because I have a team of 75 professionals in my Chapter who genuinely refer me with confidence”, she says

“Build Relationships, Not Just Contacts”Ken Muyunga a tax consultant and the first founding member of the BNI Sunrise Chapter Kampala, talks about connecting with like-minded professionals that have expanded his circle of influence. “The meaningful relationships I’ve built have increased my client base, yes. But I’ve also grown personally—my business presentation skills, accountability, and ability to serve clients better have all been boosted,” he shares.

Brenda Nakibuuka, who runs a catering company, says that BNI gave her access to a consistent stream of high-value clients. “I started small, with home-cooked meals for office lunch orders. One introduction led to another, and now I cater for large events of up to 2,000 guests without breaking a sweat!” 

Another standout story is from Jennifer Tumukunde, a project management specialist turned nutritionist. “When I joined BNI, I was a market vendor selling fruits and vegetables to my clients, but with time, people started asking me to deliver groceries to their homes. As the business grew, we also realized a niche for fresh and nutritious fruit juices, which were on high demand, especially after COVID19 hit. I eventually left the market stall, and now I have a fullyfledged nutrition garage, working with nutritionists to curate healthy meals for my clients,” she narrates.

Building Leaders, Not Just Businesses

Beyond financial gains, BNI Uganda invests in leadership and personal growth. Each chapter is member-led, with rotating leadership roles that allow members to build governance skills and visibility. Members take on roles like President, Vice President, Education Coordinator, and Visitor Host, among others.

“I joined BNI to grow my business,” says Solomon Tumwesigye, who runs Apt Media, a livestreaming company. “But I stayed because it grew me. I’ve learnt how to lead, mentor others and manage teams, – all skills that have translated into my business success.”

BNI also offers regular regional training sessions, leadership summits, and conventions that bring members together to learn, network and celebrate wins. The upcoming BNI East African Convention, scheduled for 8th August at Speke Resort Munyonyo, is expected to attract over 500 delegates from across the region and beyond, and will be a celebration of the organization’s 10-year legacy in Uganda.

The Ripple Effect

BNI Uganda’s impact also stretches beyond its own members. The steady stream of referrals and business generated through the chapters means that thousands of jobs have been created, new partnerships forged, and industries supported—ranging from construction and finance to health care and creative services.

According to Diana Kibuuka, the future is even more promising. “Our vision is to empower 5,000 members across Uganda in the next 5 years. We believe that structured, supportive business networking is one of the fastest ways to scale local enterprise and uplift communities.”