Overview:
Part of a pan-African event engaging 700 women, the Absa GirlCode Hackathon in Kampala showcased talent and resulted in new apps for credit and literacy. Absa affirms its commitment to women's empowerment and digital innovation.
KAMPALA, Uganda— Absa Bank Uganda and GirlCode have partnered to empower 50 women in technology, successfully hosting the 2025 GirlCode Hackathon aimed at developing innovative fintech solutions to address women’s financial inclusion gaps.
The event was part of a pan-African, 30-hour hackathon that engaged 700 women across eight African cities, promoting digital skills and collaboration in the tech sector.
Teams of developers and designers, guided by 15 experienced mentors, tackled real-world challenges. They developed digital tools such as mobile applications for financial literacy, innovative payment solutions specifically for women, and fintech products to improve access to credit in underserved rural communities.
Helen Basuuta Nangonzi, Director of Marketing and Customer Experience at Absa Bank Uganda, highlighted the potential of the participants. “These young women have demonstrated that when women innovate, communities thrive and economies grow,” Nangonzi said. The overall continental winner will receive support to attend the Women in Tech Global Summit.
The hackathon is timely given Uganda’s financial disparities. While national financial inclusion has grown to 81%, an International Monetary Fund (IMF) report indicated that in 2021, only 32% of rural adults held formal financial accounts, compared to 42% in urban areas. Women in rural areas often face the greatest barriers to accessing formal financial services.
Patricia Nshemereirwe, Chief Operating Officer at Absa Bank Uganda, emphasized the need for such initiatives in the youthful nation. “By equipping women with the skills, mentorship, and networks to design these solutions, the hackathon not only empowers participants but also contributes to broader financial inclusion and economic growth across the country,” Nshemereirwe said.
The winning team, Code Forces, led by Treasure Karagwa, received digital equipment. Karagwa called the hackathon an “incredible professional opportunity” to gain knowledge and network.
Absa noted the hackathon aligns with its commitment to women’s empowerment, including initiatives like the KH3-7 Hills Run, which has raised over 900 million shillings for girl-child education.