Equity Bank expands support for women in micro-businesses in Masaka

March 19, 2025 in Business, Companies, Finance, Investment by Editor

Work-life Balance takes centre stage at Abakyala Ku Ntikko event

The near-elusive pursuit of finding the appropriate balance between work and personal life came to life Tuesday, as Equity Bank rolled out this year’s edition of its Abakyala ku Ntikko women empowerment initiative, to the business community in Masaka, 83 kilometres south-west of Kampala.

The highlight of the event, which also doubled as a launch platform for the initiative in central Uganda, was an engaging panel discussion during which women from various sectors, including business and formal employment, shared insights on  how to best apportion time between work and family.

Participants shared personal experiences about the challenges of juggling business, career and family responsibilities. The panelists offered practical advice on self-care, home management and financial discipline. They emphasized the importance of conducting thorough background checks before hiring staff, both in business and at home to ensure trust and efficiency and by extension a degree of peace of peace of mind.

Women were also encouraged to maintain proper financial records, practice accountability and cultivate a saving culture – key elements of sustainable business growth.

“You have to know the people you hire as staff because they can either fail or lift your business. Create a mutual professional relationship with your staff, get to know what they go through or want, and this will make it easy for you to achieve your business goals,” said Dr Olive Nabirye, a business woman and also an employee of National Water and Sewerage Corporation, Masaka branch.

Mrs Kellen Nampurira, the ceo of Zebra Hotel, who was also a panelist, shared her journey of growing from being employed in a bakery to becoming the owner of one of the biggest hotels in Masaka District, imploring women to practice patience and consistency in business.

Jessica Naawe the District Police Commander Kimanya Kabonera Division in Masaka City, also a panelist, said “Get into groups and save, because if you are doing something, business or working, not begging, life is easy.

“I have a family, I keep livestock as a business and also do work with the government as Police officer. However , I ensure I get rest and set boundaries.”

The discussion resonated with many attendees, reinforcing the event’s mission to empower women with knowledge and practical tools for success in their personal and professional lives, and in business.

The Abakyala Ku Ntikko initiative aims to empower women with financial literacy, access to capital and networking opportunities to help them thrive in business.

Following the successful launch of the second edition of Abakyala Ku Ntiiko in Kampala on March 13th, Equity Bank extended the initiative to Masaka, drawing hundreds of women in small-scale and micro businesses.

Speaking at the event, Masaka Branch Manager Darius Tumwesigire emphasized Equity’s commitment to supporting women in business.

“We are here to serve women and provide the financial tools they need to grow their businesses,” he said.

During the event, the bank introduced several financing opportunities tailored for women in the micro segment and youth. The EquiMama product, which includes health insurance, was highlighted as a key offering.

“With Equi Mama, women not only get financial support but also health coverage, ensuring they stay strong and focused on their businesses,” said Florence Bukko Nakku, Micro Banking officer, Equity Bank.