As Uganda joins the world in celebrating International Women’s Day, dfcu Bank has called for targeted reforms in financial systems to support the growth and sustainability of women-led enterprises, especially those spearheaded by young entrepreneurs.
The call was made at the Women in Business Symposium hosted by Gudiee Leisure Farm under the theme “Leading with Power: Knowledge. Voice. Action.” The event brought together policymakers, development partners, private sector leaders, and entrepreneurs to discuss leadership development, mental resilience in business, asset protection, alliance-building, and the role of financial institutions in advancing women’s economic empowerment.
Simon Peter Kiwanuka, dfcu’s Chief Compliance Officer, highlighted that women own nearly 40 percent of businesses in Uganda, making the country one of the highest globally for female entrepreneurial activity.
He urged that this participation must translate into scale, productivity, and competitiveness, particularly in agriculture, which employs the majority of women, girls, and youth. Kiwanuka also encouraged men to act as allies in promoting gender equity at home, in communities, and in workplaces.
Dr. Gudula Basaza, Founder of Gudiee Leisure Farm, emphasized the farm’s long-standing partnership with dfcu Bank in equipping young women with practical business and investment skills. Over 35 days, participants from the Teso region gained training in business management, ICT, and technical agricultural practices, including poultry, piggery, fish farming, and value addition through herbs and spices.
Former Agriculture Minister Dr. Victoria Sekitoleko stressed the importance of women supporting women in leadership and policy spaces, urging strong networks to enhance consultation, representation, and community impact.
The symposium highlighted that empowering women-led businesses remains central to Uganda’s economic growth and sustainable development.