Pearl Bank Uganda has stepped up efforts to promote financial inclusion and strengthen household wealth across the country through its innovative mobile finance platform Wendi.
The initiative, unveiled under the campaign theme Unlocking Uganda’s Household Wealth,seeks to empower Ugandans especially those outside the formal banking system to access convenient, secure and affordable financial services directly from their mobile phones.
Speaking during a financial literacy and empowerment session in Kampala, Martin Lukyamuzi, Pearl Bank’s Regional Head for Greater Kampala, said the initiative is part of the bank’s renewed vision to transform lives through accessible digital banking.
“We wanted a fresh identity that reflects our commitment to modern, secure and accessible financial solutions for every Ugandan,” Lukyamuzi said.
“Many people simply don not know how to grow and multiply their money. Wendi bridges that gap for households without access to formal financial services. Anyone can open an account easily and make secure transactions with just a few taps on their phone.”
Wendi, licensed and regulated by the Bank of Uganda, was launched in 2023 as a digital wallet designed to reach the unbanked and underbanked population. The platform allows users to save, borrow, receive money, and pay bills without visiting a physical bank branch making financial services accessible to even the most remote communities.
The platform, developed as part of Pearl Bank’s financial inclusion strategy, is especially targeted at youth, women and small business owners who face barriers to traditional banking. Through its simplified onboarding process, users can register with just a national ID and an active SIM card.
“At Pearl Bank, we have combined convenience with security to empower families to grow their income,” Lukyamuzi added. “Our goal is to see every Ugandan use digital finance to achieve personal and household financial independence.”
Pearl Bank’s financial inclusion drive complements national efforts to expand access to affordable banking, savings, and credit services. By integrating mobile technology and financial literacy, the bank hopes to inspire a savings culture and encourage households to plan for long term prosperity.
The bank has already trained over 5,000 individuals in Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono districts to use the Wendi platform effectively, with plans to roll out similar training sessions across Uganda’s rural regions.
Through a growing agent network and community partnerships, Pearl Bank aims to reach thousands more people who have traditionally been excluded from formal banking channels.