Equity Bank to pitch diaspora services at UNAA Convention in New Orleans

August 28, 2025 in Business, Companies, Financial Services by Editor

Equity Bank will spotlight its diaspora-focused financial services at the Uganda North America Association (UNAA) Convention, which opens tomorrow in New Orleans. The annual convention brings together Ugandans living abroad, policymakers, and business leaders to explore investment, networking, and community development opportunities.

The lender says its participation aims to deepen engagement with Ugandans in the diaspora by highlighting banking and investment products designed to address their unique needs. These include diaspora accounts, property ownership solutions, remittance services, and advisory support for those seeking to invest back home.

Equity Bank is also one of the sponsors of this year’s convention. Winfred Wanjiru, Head of International Banking at Equity Bank Uganda, said the partnership was a chance to strengthen financial linkages between Ugandans abroad and their families in the region.

“Through this sponsorship, we reaffirm our commitment to providing solutions that enable the diaspora to invest back home and remain closely connected to their families,” Wanjiru said.

She added that beyond transactional services, the bank intends to engage convention participants in discussions on economic empowerment and entrepreneurship. “Our goal is not just to provide banking solutions but to foster stronger connections between Ugandans at home and abroad. The diaspora is an important player in the country’s economic growth.”

At its booth, Equity staff will host interactive sessions on digital banking, cross-border money transfers, and investment opportunities in Uganda. The bank will also take part in a panel discussion on investing back home.

The push comes as the Equity Group strengthens its international footprint. The board recently approved the opening of a representative office in the United Arab Emirates to cater to East Africans in the Gulf region. Equity already operates a fully-fledged diaspora banking division serving clients across North America, Europe, and the Middle East.

For many Ugandans living abroad, access to reliable and affordable remittance services remains a critical concern. The Bank of Uganda estimates that remittances contribute more than US$1.4 billion annually to the economy, providing essential household support and fuelling small-scale investments. Institutions such as Equity are seeking to channel more of these funds into long-term investments, including real estate, agribusiness, and education.

UNAA conventions have traditionally provided a platform for banks and other service providers to pitch solutions that link the diaspora to Uganda’s economy. By showcasing its offerings in New Orleans, Equity Bank is positioning itself to tap into a community whose remittances and investments are increasingly vital to national development.