Bank of Africa-Uganda strengthens SME commitment at CEO Business Conference 2026

Bank of Africa-Uganda has reaffirmed its strategic focus on the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector as a primary driver of economic growth in Uganda. The commitment was highlighted during the bank’s participation in the 3rd Edition of the CEO Business Conference 2026, which was held under the theme Adapt and Advance.

The conference, referenced in a statement on May 4, 2026, served as a gathering for chief executives, business owners and senior decision-makers. Participants represented a variety of industries, including education, trade, and construction.

The event provided a platform for dialogue on how businesses can maintain competitiveness and resilience amid a rapidly changing economic environment. For Bank of Africa-Uganda, the conference allowed the institution to deepen its engagement with the SME sector.

SMEs maintain a critical role in the Ugandan economy, accounting for more than 90 percent of private sector businesses. These enterprises support millions of livelihoods and contribute an estimated 20 to 25 percent to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).

During the event, Andrew Obara, the chief executive of Friends Consult Ltd, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the necessity for businesses to remain adaptable. Obara pointed to the increasing influence of artificial intelligence in shaping productivity, decision-making, and competitiveness in the current economy.

Phillip Otim, the Head of Marketing and Product Development at Bank of Africa-Uganda, represented the bank at the conference and echoed the importance of embracing technological change. Otim noted that the bank is integrating artificial intelligence into its operations as part of a broader transformation agenda intended to align the institution with the future of business and banking.

Through its participation in the conference, Bank of Africa-Uganda reaffirmed its commitment to delivering practical and sector-specific financial solutions. These offerings are tailored to the specific needs of institutions in education, as well as traders and contractors.

Aligned with the Adapt and Advance theme, the bank continues to position itself as a reliable financial partner to SMEs. The institution’s focus remains on supporting sustainable growth, business continuity, and resilience across the evolving enterprise landscape in Uganda.