Bank of Uganda has recognised Pearl Bank for its outstanding partnership and responsiveness in implementing the Agricultural Credit Facility (ACF) and Small Business Recovery Fund (SBRF), key financing schemes supporting Uganda’s productive sectors.
The recognition was announced during a workshop held on April 22, 2026, at Hotel Africana, bringing together financial institutions participating in the government-backed programmes.
Jointly implemented by the central bank and commercial lenders, the ACF aims to expand access to affordable medium- and long-term financing for agriculture. Pearl Bank stood out for its strong loan portfolio growth, sound risk management practices, and extensive outreach to both commercial and smallholder farmers.
According to the bank, its agricultural portfolio has grown by approximately 180 percent since 2020, driven by innovative lending solutions including seasonal working capital loans, risk-sharing facilities, and strategic partnerships aligned with national development priorities such as the National Development Plan IV.
Speaking at the event, Pearl Bank’s Supervisor for Agriculture and Partnerships, Julius Akais, said the institution remains committed to bridging financing gaps in Uganda’s agriculture sector.
“The bank is committed to creating an enabling environment for Ugandans to access affordable financing solutions… agriculture remains a cornerstone of the national economy,” Akais noted, adding that tailored products across value chains such as coffee, dairy, grains, poultry and horticulture have enabled farmers to invest in modern equipment, irrigation and value addition.
The central bank also recognised individuals for their role in processing applications under the schemes, with Akais receiving an individual accolade for his contribution to the ACF programme.
The latest recognition adds to a growing list of industry accolades for Pearl Bank, including multiple awards under the ACF and SBRF frameworks, as well as honours at the Annual Bankers Awards for excellence in agriculture and agro-processing financing.
The bank says the awards underscore its continued focus on sustainable financial inclusion and enterprise growth, positioning it as a key player in advancing Uganda’s broader economic transformation agenda.