Uganda Manufacturers Association and Equity Bank Forge Landmark Partnership to Boost Manufacturing Sector

Kampala, Uganda – May 8, 2025 – The Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), representing over 1,800 manufacturers, has entered into a transformative strategic partnership with Equity Bank Uganda (

@UgEquityBank) to drive innovation, trade, and financial inclusion in the country’s manufacturing sector. This collaboration, announced today, marks a significant milestone in empowering local manufacturers and strengthening Uganda’s economy.

The partnership brings together UMA’s extensive network of industry leaders with Equity Bank’s financial expertise, represented by Barbara Aseerra, Head of Manufacturing and Logistics Sector, and Christine Mukasa-Mugerwa, Senior Sector Head for Energy, Mining, and Extractives, and Acting Head of Corporate Banking. Together, they aim to unlock new opportunities for growth and competitiveness in the manufacturing landscape.

Key Highlights of the Partnership

The collaboration focuses on delivering tailored solutions to address the unique needs of UMA members and propel the sector forward. Key initiatives include:

1. Exclusive Financial Solutions for UMA Members
   Equity Bank will provide @newsUMA members with access to affordable loans, trade finance, and customized financial products designed to support business expansion, technology adoption, and operational efficiency. These solutions aim to alleviate the financial constraints often faced by manufacturers, enabling them to scale and compete globally.
2. Co-Branded Initiatives for Efficiency and Growth
   The partnership will roll out joint programs to enhance productivity and innovation in Uganda’s manufacturing sector. These include capacity-building workshops, market access initiatives, and technology-driven solutions to streamline operations. By leveraging Equity Bank’s digital banking prowess, manufacturers can optimize processes and access new markets with ease.

A Game-Changer for Uganda’s Economy

This strategic alliance is poised to reshape the manufacturing sector by fostering financial inclusion and empowering businesses with the tools they need to thrive. Equity Bank’s robust digital platforms and extensive financial services will provide UMA members with unmatched access to resources, while UMA’s industry expertise will ensure that solutions are tailored to the sector’s specific challenges.

“This partnership is a game-changer for Uganda’s manufacturing sector,” said a UMA spokesperson. “By combining our industry knowledge with Equity Bank’s financial and digital capabilities, we are creating a powerful ecosystem that supports innovation, trade, and sustainable growth.”

Barbara Aseerra emphasized the bank’s commitment to the sector, stating, “Our goal is to empower manufacturers with the financial tools they need to succeed in a competitive market. This collaboration with UMA is a step toward building a stronger, more resilient economy.”

Christine Mukasa-Mugerwa added, “We are excited to work with UMA to drive financial inclusion and unlock the potential of Uganda’s manufacturers. Together, we can create lasting impact and position the sector as a cornerstone of economic development.”

Unlocking Opportunities for Manufacturers

The partnership aligns with Uganda’s broader vision of industrialization and economic empowerment. By addressing critical barriers such as access to finance and market inefficiencies, UMA and Equity Bank are paving the way for manufacturers to innovate, expand, and contribute significantly to job creation and GDP growth.

The collaboration also sets the stage for future initiatives, including potential trade fairs, digital transformation programs, and advocacy for policies that support local manufacturing. Industry leaders are optimistic that this partnership will serve as a catalyst for transformative change.

A Bright Future for Manufacturing

As Uganda strives to become a regional industrial hub, the UMA-Equity Bank partnership represents a bold step toward realizing this ambition. With a shared commitment to growth and innovation, both organizations are well-positioned to drive meaningful progress and empower manufacturers to compete on a global stage.

This landmark collaboration is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships in unlocking economic potential and fostering sustainable development.