Equity offers new loan opportunities for Ugandans in the Diaspora

What the report says

Equity Bank Uganda is encouraging Ugandans living abroad to use part of their remittances for investment, rather than only sending money home for family support. The message was shared during an X Space hosted by the bank on September 30, 2026, under the theme “From Remitting to Investing: Loan Opportunities for Ugandans in the Diaspora.” The discussion centered on ways diaspora customers could build wealth through property, agribusiness, government securities and other income-generating assets.

Winfred Warui, Equity Bank’s Senior Manager for International Banking and Cross-Border Payments, said the bank is seeing more interest from diaspora clients who want to own assets in Uganda and pursue longer-term financial goals. Bob Paul Lusembo, Equity’s Segment Head of Micro Business, said the bank wants customers to balance family obligations with productive investment, and to direct some earnings toward businesses or assets that can create future income.

The bank highlighted opportunities in areas such as food processing, retail, transport, logistics, equipment hire and hospitality, as well as value-chain roles in agriculture including storage, packaging and distribution. It also pointed to property options such as land, rental units, shops and warehouses, while warning that people investing remotely should carry out careful due diligence, especially when buying land.

According to the bank, financial literacy and advisory services are central to helping diaspora earners move from consumption to investment. The broader idea is to support a shift toward long-term wealth creation, potentially in Uganda or, depending on individual circumstances, across the wider East African region.