Dfcu Bank, in partnership with Monitor Publications Limited, has officially launched the 7th edition of its flagship Rising Woman Initiative, a nationwide campaign dedicated to empowering Ugandan women entrepreneurs.
The event, held at Mestil Hotel in Kampala, marked a significant milestone in a program that has impacted over 60,000 women directly and reached more than one million virtually since its inception in 2018.
This year’s edition builds on that legacy with an ambitious rollout of regional trainings, a UGX 30 million business proposal competition, a Rising Woman Expo, an awards gala, and an all-expenses-paid mentorship trip for outstanding participants.
A Legacy of Empowerment
In her keynote address, Dr. Victoria Sekitoleko, former Minister of Agriculture and leadership mentor, emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for women. Drawing from her personal journey, she applauded the initiative for recognizing women as central to Uganda’s economic growth.
“Dfcu Bank’s Rising Woman Initiative resonates deeply with me. It offers women the tools and community they need to rise. Every step forward a woman takes is a legacy for Uganda,” Dr. Sekitoleko said as she officially launched Season 7.
Focus on Legacy and Sustainability
Winnie Awino, a partner at S&L Advocates, delivered a practical keynote on “Safeguarding Business Legacy,” guiding more than 100 attendees on legal structures, estate planning, and long-term business sustainability.
“Future-proofing your business and personal assets is a critical step in building generational success,” Awino advised, emphasizing the need for strategic planning among women-led enterprises.
Institutional Support for Women in Business
Dr. Gudula Naiga Basaza, Chairperson of the Dfcu Women Business Advisory Council, reiterated Dfcu Bank’s long-standing dedication to female entrepreneurs, tracing the roots back to its Women in Business (WiB) program launched in 2007.
“Women are the backbone of Uganda’s economy—from market stalls to boardrooms. Rising Woman exists to amplify their stories,” she said. She added that the program continues to offer a unique ecosystem of financial services, legal coaching, business mentorship, and media exposure.
What’s New in Season 7
According to Doreen Atuheire, Head of Women in Business at Dfcu Bank, this year’s initiative is more impact-driven than ever. Highlights include:
- Five Regional Trainings across Uganda
- UGX 30 million prize fund for the best business proposals
- Business Exposure at the Rising Woman Expo
- Prestigious Awards Gala to celebrate innovation
- Fully Funded Mentorship Trip for top performers
“We’re not just funding businesses; we’re investing in ambition and leadership. To every woman who dares to dream, Dfcu believes in you,” said Atuheire.
Role of the Media
Flavia Tumusiime Kabuura, Head of Broadcasting at Nation Media Group, affirmed the media house’s commitment to supporting women through visibility and storytelling.
“This initiative expands networks and markets for women entrepreneurs, boosting both their income and influence,” she said.
Participation Criteria
Participation in the Rising Woman Initiative is free. Eligible businesses must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum 50% female ownership
- At least 30% women in leadership or staff
- Founded and actively led by a woman
(Note: Previous winners are not eligible to reapply)
As Season 7 of the Rising Woman Initiative gets underway, Dfcu Bank and Monitor Publications are calling on women across Uganda to seize the opportunity and join a movement that continues to shape the future of women-led business in the country.