Postbank Uganda has marked a historic milestone after becoming the first commercialbank in the country to secure a European sustainability certification. The award was presented by end of September in Germany by the European Organisation for Sustainable Development (EOSD), under its prestigious Sustainability Standards and Certification Initiative (SSCI).
The certification confirms Postbank’s alignment with international benchmarks on environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and ethical governance, placing it at the forefront of sustainable banking in East Africa.
Managing Director Julius Kakeeto said the recognition reflects the bank’s deliberate transition into a purpose-driven financial institution.
“Sustainability is now embedded in our bank’s strategy, products, services, and operations. This recognition affirms that we are not only pursuing profitability, but also making a lasting impact on society, the economy, and the environment,” Kakeeto remarked.
As part of its ongoing transformation, PostBank is rebranding to Pearl Bank Uganda and has rolled out innovations such as the Wendi digital wallet, which enables users to save, invest, and transact across borders. The bank also recently invested in training staff on green finance and climate-sensitive banking products, in partnership with international development agencies.
From the EOSD side, Arshad Rab, CEO and Chairman of SSCI, hailed the achievement as a sign that Uganda’s financial sector is keeping pace with global sustainability expectations.
“Postbank’s certification shows that banks can deliver economic value while safeguarding natural assets and advancing social good,” Rab noted.
Industry analysts believe the milestone could give Postbank a competitive edge in attracting sustainability-minded investors and development partners, while strengthening public trust in the bank’s role as a driver of inclusive growth.
As it transitions into Pearl Bank Uganda, the institution faces the challenge of turning certification into tangible results from supporting green enterprises to embedding climate resilience into lending portfolios.
This achievement, however, already sets a precedent, Ugandan banks are now being called upon not only to finance growth, but also to safeguard the country’s future.