Standard Chartered marks 114 years of banking in Uganda

Standard Chartered Bank Uganda has marked 114 years of operations in the country, celebrating its longstanding contribution to Uganda’s financial sector and its role in connecting local businesses and institutions to international capital and markets.

The bank, which opened its Kampala branch on August 12, 1912, marked the anniversary under the theme “Celebrating 114 Years: Honouring Our Heritage, Culture & Shaping Tomorrow.”

The milestone makes Standard Chartered Uganda the country’s longest-established international commercial bank, with the institution having supported businesses, government and other clients through different phases of Uganda’s economic development.

Over the years, the bank has introduced several banking innovations, including Uganda’s first ATM, Visa connectivity through its ATM network, Visa Electron and Visa Infinite cards.

It also became the first bank to offer government securities trading as a primary dealer in Africa, as well as interest and foreign exchange derivative products.

New focus

The anniversary comes as the bank strengthens its focus on Corporate and Investment Banking following the transition and sale of its Wealth and Retail Banking business.

The shift is part of Standard Chartered’s global strategy of positioning itself as a “super-connector” linking clients and economies to international capital, trade and investment opportunities.

In Uganda, the bank said it intends to use its local presence, international network and financial expertise to support businesses, institutions and public-sector priorities in sectors where it can provide specialised solutions.

Charles Katongole, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank Uganda, said the bank’s commitment to Uganda remains unchanged despite the shift in its business focus.

“For 114 years, Standard Chartered has stood with Uganda through seasons of change, opportunity and progress. Our story is deeply woven into the country’s story, from enabling trade and enterprise to supporting infrastructure, innovation, inclusive growth and community resilience,” Katongole said.

He said the bank would continue connecting Uganda to global capital and markets while supporting investments that contribute to the country’s future growth.

“As we enter this next chapter as a Corporate and Investment Bank, our commitment remains unchanged: to be here for good, to connect Uganda to global capital and markets, and to support the ambitions that will shape the country’s future,” he said.

Impact beyond banking

The bank said its contribution to Uganda’s economy extends beyond its financial services.

According to a Steward Redqueen assessment cited by the bank, its operations in Uganda supported an estimated $896 million in value-added economic impact, equivalent to 3.5 per cent of GDP, and 491,000 jobs, directly and indirectly.

The bank has also invested in community programmes focusing on health, education, youth empowerment, women’s entrepreneurship, disability inclusion, environmental restoration, access to safe drinking water and emergency response.

Through initiatives including Seeing is Believing, Futuremakers, Women in Tech, RISE-E and Nets for Life, the bank said it has supported vulnerable communities and expanded access to opportunities.

The anniversary celebrations also included cultural activities, with staff wearing traditional and cultural attire representing Uganda’s diversity.

The bank recognised long-serving employees for their contribution to its 114-year history, including John Mwesigye, who has served for more than 30 years; Moses Semugabi and Lydia Mukasa, each with more than 25 years; and Katongole, who has completed 20 years.

Banking recognition

Standard Chartered Uganda has also received recognition from various industry bodies, including Euromoney’s Best Bank in Uganda, emeafinance’s Best Bank in Uganda and The Banker’s Bank of the Year.

More recently, the bank was recognised as Banking Brand of the Year Uganda 2026 and Best Corporate Bank Uganda 2026 in the Global Banking & Finance Awards.

As it enters its next chapter, Standard Chartered said its Uganda operations will continue to focus on trusted client relationships, its international network and local expertise to connect capital, trade and partnerships across markets.

The bank said this approach will position it to support Uganda’s ambitions for sustainable economic growth while maintaining its longstanding presence in the country.

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