Centenary Bank Uganda has made history as the first African financial institution to host the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV) Annual Meeting.
The event, held under the theme “Building Resilient Futures: Lessons from Africa and Value-Based Banking,” brought together over 70 member banks and financial institutions from across the globe.
This four-day conference highlighted the growing importance of values-based banking in addressing global economic, environmental, and social challenges.
A key public event on March 11th, titled “Resilience in the Face of Multiple Crises – How Values-Based Banks are Leading the Way,” sparked insightful discussions on ethical banking practices.
Centenary Bank’s Commitment to Ethical Banking
Fabian Kasi, Managing Director of Centenary Bank, emphasized the bank’s dedication to financial inclusion, sustainable banking, and ethical lending.
“Centenary Bank was founded on the principle that banking should be a force for good, empowering individuals and communities towards sustainable prosperity,” Kasi stated.
As Uganda’s largest microfinance bank, Centenary Bank serves over 3.26 million customers, with 85% in rural areas, through its extensive network of branches and agents. Its value-based approach includes:
- A substantial loan portfolio supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
- Significant agricultural financing, vital to Uganda’s economy.
- Investment in digital banking solutions to expand access to underserved communities.
- Annual corporate social responsibility (CSR) contributions funding key sector projects.
Keynote Insights: Redefining Banking for a Sustainable Future
Dr. Mamphela Ramphele, Co-President of the Club of Rome and former Managing Director at the World Bank, delivered a powerful keynote address.
She stressed the need for financial institutions to prioritize social impact and long-term sustainability over profit-driven models.
“The world is facing multiple crises, from climate change to economic inequality. Banks have a responsibility to lead the way in building a financial ecosystem that serves humanity and our planet,” Dr. Ramphele asserted.
“Africa, with its deep-rooted traditions of community and sustainability, has much to teach the world about resilient banking.”
Government Support for Inclusive Growth
Bob Bonabo Munene, Assistant Commissioner at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, reiterated Uganda’s commitment to sustainable economic transformation.
He highlighted the government’s focus on inclusive growth and the critical role of values-based banking in achieving national development goals.
Collaborative Solutions for Global Challenges
The GABV Annual Meeting facilitated discussions on innovative financial solutions, cross-border collaborations, and strategies for embedding values-based banking principles into mainstream finance.
Participants shared insights and explored approaches to address pressing global challenges.
Event Sponsors
The event was supported by sponsors including:
- Platinum Sponsors: Pebbu, NBS, and the Africa Guarantee Fund (AGF).
- Gold and Silver Sponsors: Various organizations from diverse sectors.
