Housing Finance Bank deepens Hoima presence as Bunyoro economy expands

What the report says

Housing Finance Bank said it plans to expand its presence in Hoima as economic activity in Bunyoro increases demand for housing, farming credit, micro-business funding and small and medium enterprise loans. The commitment was made during a customer engagement forum in Hoima, where bank leaders met clients, local stakeholders and the Hoima branch team to discuss service needs and possible improvements. The event also included the Prime Minister of Bunyoro Kingdom, Andrew Byakutaga, as guest of honour.

According to The Independent Uganda, HFB said customer feedback has influenced its strategy since it opened the Hoima branch in 2023. The bank explained that it began with a focus on SMEs, then added a Micro Banking section after customers highlighted demand for smaller loans and support for gradual construction projects. HFB said these loans range from Shs200,000 to Shs50 million. The bank also said it is strengthening local staffing, promoting banking agents and expanding digital access such as USSD banking through *225#.

Byakutaga used the forum to call for better access to land titles, affordable housing finance and more credit for farmers, saying these are important to help residents benefit from regional growth. HFB said it offers several agricultural financing options, including a large-scale farmer facility and the Agricultural Credit Facility at a subsidised rate. The bank said it will review the issues raised by customers, while a customer testimonial highlighted how HFB financing helped speed up one construction project. The broader significance is that banks are adjusting products as Hoima and the wider Bunyoro region see more investment in agriculture, housing and enterprise.