FORT PORTAL, UGANDA — dfcu Bank, one of Uganda’s largest financial institutions, officially opened its 55th branch on Wednesday in Fort Portal, a move aimed at expanding financial services and supporting economic growth in the Western region.
The new branch, located on Babiiha Road in Fort Portal Tourism City, will serve communities across the Tooro Sub-region, including Kabarole, Kyenjojo, Kamwenge, Bunyangabu and Kasese. The bank will offer a full suite of services for individuals, entrepreneurs, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a focus on agriculture, tourism and trade.
Kate Kiiza, the executive director of dfcu Bank, said the expansion is a “bold step” in accelerating growth in a region with opportunities in agriculture, tourism and oil.
“For more than 60 years, dfcu Bank has been a partner in transforming lives and businesses across Uganda,” Kiiza said. “Beyond financial solutions, we are creating employment opportunities, supporting SMEs, and enabling families and communities to thrive.”
Richard Rwabuhinga, the LC V chairman for Fort Portal Tourism City, welcomed the investment, stating that the new branch positions the city as a “rising economic hub.”
“With services ranging from savings and SME loans to agent banking, dfcu Bank is empowering traders, farmers, tourism operators, and families,” Rwabuhinga said.
Annette Kichoncho, the chief retail banking officer at dfcu Bank, highlighted the bank’s focus on key sectors, noting that Fort Portal is an “agricultural powerhouse.” She said the bank will use a blend of physical branches, digital platforms and its network of more than 20,000 agents nationwide to ensure “no one is left behind.”
In addition to traditional banking, dfcu Bank will offer internet and mobile banking, entrepreneurial training, financial literacy programs and mentorship, with a special emphasis on its “Women in Business Program.”
dfcu Bank was founded in 1964 as the Development Finance Company of Uganda. It has since become a major institution, supporting large-scale development projects and providing financial solutions to businesses and individuals.