Fabian Kasi bids farewell to Centenary Bank after 16 years at the helm

KAMPALA — Outgoing Centenary Bank Managing Director Fabian Kasi has formally concluded his 16-year tenure, thanking the bank’s employees, board, customers and industry partners for supporting what he described as the “honour of my life.”

In a farewell message issued after leaving office on Tuesday, Kasi said he was handing over the country’s second-largest commercial bank with confidence in its future leadership.

“Yesterday, I concluded my tenure as Managing Director of Centenary Bank, and it was a moment met with emotion and, above all, gratitude,” he said.

Kasi paid tribute to the bank’s staff across its branch network, describing them as the driving force behind the institution’s success.

“Your dedication, your warmth, and your willingness to go the extra mile for our customers are what made everything possible,” he said.

He also thanked the bank’s board for its trust and guidance throughout his tenure, saying it had provided him with the platform to lead the institution.

Addressing customers, Kasi said they remained central to the bank’s mission and urged them to continue banking with Centenary.

“You are the reason we exist. Thank you for letting us be part of your journey, your businesses, your families, and your future. A lot more is coming your way. Keep banking with us,” he said.

Kasi also acknowledged the contribution of the bank’s development partners and peers in the banking industry, saying collaboration had helped strengthen Uganda’s financial sector.

“I received this responsibility with care, and I handed it over with the same care, fully confident in those who will carry the institution forward. Centenary Bank is in great hands,” he said.

His departure marks the end of a leadership era that saw Centenary Bank expand significantly in assets, customers and digital banking services. During his tenure, the bank’s balance sheet grew from just over Shs1 trillion to nearly Shs9 trillion, while its customer base increased from about 850,000 to roughly three million.

Kasi is expected to remain within the Centenary Group, where he will transition to the role of Group Chief Executive Officer as the financial institution restructures under a holding company model. He will oversee the wider group, including operations in Uganda and Malawi and other subsidiaries, while Godfrey Byekwaso takes over as Managing Director of Centenary Bank.

The leadership transition is part of the group’s preparations for a broader regional strategy and compliance with new regulatory requirements governing financial holding companies.