Opportunity Bank Uganda at 30: Celebrating Inclusive Banking, Community Impact, and the Opening of 25th Branch at Rwamwanja

Opportunity Bank Uganda proudly marks a transformative milestone this evening with a celebratory dinner, commemorating 30 years of empowering underserved communities through inclusive finance, digital innovation, and a steadfast commitment to dignity and opportunity for all. 

Established in 1995 as a small microcredit initiative, the Bank has since evolved into a fully licensed Tier II Credit Institution, now serving over 520,000 customers across Uganda. Over the past three decades, Opportunity Bank has built a reputation as a trusted financial partner—delivering accessible, customer-centric solutions to individuals, families, and businesses traditionally excluded from mainstream banking, while championing financial inclusion as a catalyst for long-term social and economic transformation.

At the commemorative 30th Anniversary Dinner held at Mestil Hotel in Kampala, Opportunity Bank Uganda was honored to host an esteemed group of guests: Professor Augustus Nuwagaba, Deputy Governor of the Bank of Uganda; Mr. Atul Tandon, CEO of Opportunity International U.S.; Mr. Dan Murray, President & CEO of Opportunity International Canada; Anke Luckja, CEO of Opportunity International Germany; Mrs. Mary Oakes, CEO of Opportunity International UK; and Ms. ABi Nana François, CEO of Opportunity Microfinance Investments Ltd. Hosting alongside these global leaders were Mrs. Jacqueline Kobusingye Opondo, Chairperson of the Bank’s Board of Directors. They were joined by development partners, loyal clients, long-serving staff, and board members—each of whom has played an instrumental role in building the Bank’s enduring legacy of transformative impact.

From its very first location at Namirembe Branch—now known as City Branch—Opportunity Bank has expanded to a network of 25 branches across all four regions of Uganda. These branches are more than service points; they are centers of possibility, resilience, and renewal for the communities they serve.

Guided by a powerful mission and vision, the Bank exists to provide innovative, inclusive, and technology-led financial solutions that transform lives—particularly for smallholder farmers, refugees, women, youth, schools, and persons with disabilities. Its vision is clear: a Uganda where everyone can live a life free from poverty, with dignity and purpose.

In line with its mission to serve the underserved, the Bank yesterday Thursday 14/08/2025 opened its 25th branch in Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement, Kamwenge District. Home to over 110,000 refugees, Rwamwanja becomes the second refugee-hosting location to benefit from tailored Opportunity Bank services—following the landmark Nakivale branch. The Rwamwanja branch, launched on August 14, offers specialized credit, digital banking, and financial literacy for both refugees and host communities, with a focus on agriculture, the region’s primary livelihood.

Over the years, Opportunity Bank has built a legacy of impact. It currently supports more than 19,000 refugees, 21,000 smallholder farmers, 40,000 persons with disabilities, and finances 1,510 schools—all while maintaining over UGX 175 billion in savings and a loan portfolio of UGX 165 billion. Through its bancassurance partnerships with 10 leading insurance providers, the Bank helps secure brighter futures for families and small businesses with affordable, reliable insurance products.

Digital transformation has also played a critical role in expanding access. With 520 agent bankers, the Opportunity Mobile App, and internet banking launched in 2022, customers now enjoy fast, secure, and convenient tools—such as instant interbank transfers—bringing modern financial services closer to rural communities than ever before.

Leadership

“We’re not just commemorating 30 years of banking—we’re celebrating 30 years of changing stories,” said Owen Amanya, CEO of Opportunity Bank Uganda. “From refugees rebuilding their lives to women leading small businesses, from rural schools to persons with disabilities—we exist for the people who have been told ‘no’ too many times. We are proud to be their ‘yes’.”

Customer’s remarks 

One of those stories belongs to Evans Senabulya, Founder and Director of Ridgeway Schools, who turned to Opportunity Bank during a defining moment.

“Opportunity Bank gave us a loan when no bank could offer us one. They believed in our dream before anyone else did,” said Senabulya. “Today, we have over four Ridgeway Schools, strong, high-level infrastructure, and thousands of students. Their support was more than financial—it was the reason we’re here today.”

Opportunity Bank’s leadership in inclusive banking is also reflected in its pioneering work with refugees. In 2021, it became the first commercial bank to open a branch in Nakivale Refugee Settlement, and in 2025, it expanded to the Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement—delivering dignified, accessible financial services to thousands of forcibly displaced people and host communities.

“Our story is one of people, not profits,” added Owen Amanya. “As we look to the future, we remain committed to being a force for good in Uganda’s financial sector—offering not just services, but partnership, respect, and hope.”

As the Bank celebrates this 30-year journey, it also takes this moment to extend its deepest appreciation to the partners, NGOs, donors, and stakeholders who have stood alongside it in service of a more inclusive financial future.

About Opportunity Bank Uganda

Opportunity Bank Uganda is a licensed and regulated Tier II Credit Institution that has been transforming lives since 1995 by delivering inclusive financial services to some of the country’s most underserved communities. With a growing network of 25 branches, over 520 agent bankers, and a suite of digital platforms, the Bank provides accessible and dignified banking solutions that promote sustainable livelihoods, enterprise growth, and educational advancement. To date, the Bank has served more than 520,000 customers, disbursed over UGX 165 billion in loans. Its targeted outreach includes more than 21,000 smallholder farmers, 40,000 persons with disabilities, 1,510 schools, and over 19,000 refugees. Driven by its mission to serve the underserved and a bold vision of a Uganda free from poverty, Opportunity Bank continues to equip individuals and communities with the tools to thrive—transforming hope into opportunity, and opportunity into lasting impact.