KCB Bank unveils new platform to bridge growth gap for female-led businesses

KAMPALA, Uganda — KCB Bank Uganda has launched a new platform designed to bridge the growth gap for female-led businesses by providing a combination of financial products and strategic mentorship.

The initiative, dubbed FLME, was unveiled Thursday during a breakfast engagement at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel. The program aims to address the specific hurdles women entrepreneurs face, particularly limited access to credit and the lack of structured business support.

KCB Bank Uganda Managing Director Edgar Byamah said the platform is a deliberate response to a progression gap in the market. Byamah noted that FLME aligns finance, capacity building and market access into one coordinated system to help women scale their operations.

The Guest of Honor, Technical and Vocational Education and Training Council Chairperson Allen Kagina, commended the bank for taking a structured approach. Kagina said such initiatives are essential for unlocking the full potential of women in business and accelerating inclusive economic growth.

FLME integrates tailored financial solutions with non-financial support through the bank’s foundation. The bank has also partnered with organizations including Mkazipreneur, African Women in Processing and Nation Media Group’s Empower Her to connect women to wider markets and increased visibility.

Lillian Namuli Akiki, an agribusiness entrepreneur from Tororo District, told attendees that the biggest challenge for women is not starting a business, but growing it. She said the new platform stands out because it connects business owners to the networks and knowledge required to scale sustainably.