The Executive Director Equity Bank Uganda, Claver Serumaga addresses participants during the Diaspora Investment Forum in Nairobi.
By Ruth Nanyonga
The chairperson of Uganda Network (UGNET) in Nairobi Dr Phionah Atuhebwe has urged Ugandans living and working in Kenya to move beyond sending remittances home and embrace structured investments that build sustainable wealth.
This ,according to Dr Atuhebwe can be achieved by taking advantage of business opportunities across borders.
She was made during a Diaspora Investment Forum hosted by Equity Bank Uganda in partnership with the Uganda Network (UGNET) in Nairobi. The engagement brought together Ugandan professionals, entrepreneurs and investors based in Kenya to explore investment opportunities in Uganda and financial solutions to support their ambitions.
She said the diaspora should be recognised not only as a source of remittances but also as an important pool of investment capital, professional expertise, innovation and international networks.
“The diaspora is far more than just remittances; we are a powerhouse of investment capital, professional expertise, innovation and global networks building wealth across borders. Moving beyond simply sending money home to deliberately building sustainable assets is how we create long-term prosperity,” Atuhebwe said.
Equity Bank Uganda Executive Director Claver Serumaga said the bank’s diaspora proposition was designed to support customers throughout their investment journey, rather than limit its role to facilitating money transfers.
He encouraged Ugandans abroad to use their earnings to acquire assets and pursue investments that secure their financial future back home.
“True diaspora banking goes beyond simple transactions; it is about building a solid financial partnership that supports your long-term goals and secures your future back home. Instead of only sending money home, let us focus on meaningful investments that build lasting assets. We are committed to building continuous partnerships with our diaspora communities through ongoing engagement and dedicated support,” Serumaga said.
Delivering the keynote address, Equity Group Managing Director, Asset Management, Richard Byarugaba, urged participants to adopt disciplined wealth creation practices, including consistent saving, investment diversification and aligning investment decisions with long-term financial goals.
He also emphasised the importance of working with regulated financial institutions to protect investments and make informed financial decisions.
During the forum, Equity Bank Uganda showcased financial solutions tailored to Ugandans living and working abroad. These include diaspora savings and current accounts, investment and construction financing, insurance products, investment club accounts and foreign exchange services.
The bank also highlighted its inter-country banking capabilities, which allow customers to access funds, make transfers and conduct banking transactions across the markets where Equity operates.