News Category: News

The I&M Bank Serena 63 Golf Series is back for the 2026 season, promising an extended and competitive calendar for amateur golfers. The 2026 season of the series was officially launched yesterday- Wednesday, April 22, at an interactive press briefing, held on the greens of the Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa- Kigo, the host course for the series. The launch was preceded by a series of fun golf challenges, that included longest drive and nearest-to-the-pin competitions. The fun challenges had teams from the hosts- Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa, the series title sponsors- I&M Bank, and members of the press. The season-long competition will run over a period of twenty-eight (28) weeks, and shall be played under a full handicap Stableford format. Participants will accumulate points from each round, with only their best 18 scores counting towards the final result. Speaking at the launch, Lake Victoria Serena Golf Director- Theo Van Rooyen, stated that the format is designed to keep players engaged throughout the season. He said that participants will need to complete a minimum of six rounds per quarter to qualify for quarterly prizes, and at least 18 rounds overall to compete for the grand prizes. Players can play their rounds at any time to stand a chance to win at the main quarterly events. The series will feature three major events- the first event slated for June 20, the second one on September 12, and the grand finale on November 14. Each of these events will reward top performers in both main and subsidiary categories, as well as side bets. “We have structured this series to encourage regular play while maintaining a high level of competition. With weekly leaderboard updates and an Order of Merit system, players will be able to track their progress consistently. The key events, including the quarterly tournaments and the grand finale in November, will highlight the best performers across different categories,” Van Rooyen said. The prize pool for the quarterly rewards will be based on Order of Merit standings and grand prizes for overall winners. These include complimentary golf membership for a year, Serena accommodation experiences across East Africa, at destinations such as Mombasa, Nairobi, Kigali, and Zanzibar, as well as golf merchandise: gear, and sponsor prizes. Lake Victoria Serena Vice Captain- John Muchiri described the series as one of the key fixtures on the club’s calendar. “As a club, this series is an opportunity to open our doors and showcase the quality, unique experience, and the standards of our course. We are happy to host golfers and guests to share in the excellent experience,” he said. I&M Bank Chief Executive Officer- Robin Bairstow, said the bank is proud to continue its partnership with Lake Victoria Serena to deliver a competition that blends sport, lifestyle, and customer engagement. “I&M Bank is pleased to be back in partnership with Serena Hotels to deliver this series and continue supporting the growth of golf. We believe golfers will enjoy their rounds throughout the competition,” he said. “With Serena Golf Resort’s growing membership, and its positioning as a premier and exclusive golfing destination in East Africa, this collaboration aligns closely with the kind of clientele we jointly serve; discerning individuals who value quality experiences, consistency, and engagement beyond the ordinary,” Bairstow added. Participation in the series is open to both club members and non-members at a one-time registration fee of UGX 63,000 (USD $35). Annette Nakiyaga, the bank’s head of marketing and corporate communications, said the tournament reflects the bank’s commitment to creating platforms for engagement built around golf. “This partnership is about more than just golf. It is about building a community and providing a platform where both our customers and a wider golfing community can participate and enjoy the game. As a brand, we always show up big, especially when it comes to golf,” Nakiyaga said. Beyond competition, the series will also offer a social and entertainment experience, with themed 19th hole experiences. Why 63? 63 Is the current course record set by Dizmas Ndizaduring the third round of the 2019 Uganda Golf Open.

Over 120 Ugandan golfers took part in the second cross-border leg of the I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series, held on Saturday, November 8th, at the picturesque Kigali Golf Resort and Villas, in Rwanda. The tournament attracted more than 220 golfers, mainly from Rwanda and Uganda. The Ugandan team was dominated by members of Entebbe Club’s Katogo fraternity, but had other clubs equally well represented by both members and club leaders. Dubbed the “Virunga Challenge,” the one-day tournament, played under the Stableford format, saw the host club make the most of their local knowledge to win the team event with 759 points, against Katogo’s 701. The top 20 individual results were used to determine the final team scores. Some of Katogo team’s outstanding performers included Michael Kijjambu with 39 points, Serwano Walusimbi with 39, Captain Elly Mukasa with 38, Harry Hakiza with 36, and David Obua with 36. Team Kigali’s top performers included Habumuremyi Theogene- 42 points, Darlington Kabatende- 42, Pearl Kirungi- 40 points, Innocent Rutamu- 40, and Januario Mucyo- 40 points. With the Ugandan contingent outnumbering the home players, Kigali Golf Resort Captain Eugene Murenjekha, who was flanked by the Lady Captain- Jenny Linda, took time off to applaud the Ugandan team for the energy, and most importantly the deliberate effort to uplift the game of golf across the region. “We are proud to host our Ugandan brothers and sisters in Kigali. The energy, sportsmanship, and laughter we have shared today truly reflect what golf is all about. We look forward to meeting again at Entebbe Club for the grand finale,” he said. Katogo Captain, Elly Mukasa, who took golfers through the humble beginnings of the series, stated that the cross-border legs have been a game changer, bringing new energy, diversity, and excitement to the competition. “The Kigali leg has been an inspiring experience, and we have picked many lessons that will guide us to execution future legs of the series even better. Moments like these remind us that Katogo is not just about winning trophies; it’s about enjoying the game, connecting with golfers and friends across borders, as well as creating memories, that stay with us long after the final putt,” he said. Mukasa extended an invitation to the Kigali team for the upcoming 2025 I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series grand finale, slated for November 29, at Entebbe Club. I&M Bank Uganda, the tournament’s lead sponsors, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the growth of golf and strengthening regional ties through sport. Annette Nakiyaga, the I&M Bank Uganda Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications commended the Ugandan team for participating in big numbers, and commended the Kigali team for the warm welcome, that provided a perfect background for new friendships. “As a bank with a presence across the region, we are proud to be at the heart of this tournament, while gaining insights that will allow us to elevate future events outside Uganda,” she said. “I thank Katogo members for coming out in such a big number, and I thank our hosts- the leadership of Kigali Golf Resort and Villas, the I&M Bank team Rwanda, and golfers, for welcoming us and ensuring this leg is a success.” Iddy Rugamba, the Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at I&M Bank Rwnada, who represented the CEO- Benjamin Mutimura, noted that they have drawn inspiration from their Ugandan counterparts, and shall introduce a similar golf series next year. Other winners of the day included Timothy Musiime, the I&M Bank Uganda Chief Finance Officer, who emerged the Bank Champion, with 38 points, January Mucyo- 40 points, and Josephine Lee, claimed the overall honors in the men and ladies’ categories respectively. In the side bets, Maxi Byenkya, who had a hole-in-one, on her practice round on Friday, won the nearest-to-the-pin- ladies, while Benjamin Mukisa took it for men. Sylvie Irakoze and Benjamin Manzi claimed the longest drive, for women and men, respectively. The event climaxed in true ‘Katogo style,’ with a lively ‘All white’ themed 19th hole experience, that was characterized with a sumptuous three course dinner, an open bar, and a DJ session that saw golfers and guests dance the night away till the wee hours of Sunday morning.

I&M Bank Uganda has announced a loan repayment holiday campaign for retail loans, that will run from December 1, 2024, till February 28, 2025. The announcement was made on Monday, December 2, at the bank’s Headquarters at Kingdom Kampala. The launch event was graced by the bank's top executives, including CEO Robin Bairstow, Executive Director and Chief Operations Officer Sam Ntulume, Chief Business Officer Gibson Nangono, Head of Human Resources Lucy Akech, Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications Annette Nakiyaga, bank staff from different branches, and customers.   During that period, customers will enjoy a repayment holiday of up to 60 days on loans before their first instalment is recovered. This initiative aims to offer relief to customers during the festive Christmas season and the financially challenging back-to-school period. I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow says that the bank is aware of the challenges clients face during the festive season and the back-to-school period, noting that these times often bring added financial pressure. “I&M Bank is committed to supporting its customers during these challenging times by offering a loan repayment holiday, providing much-needed relief and flexibility, and helping them navigate the financial pressures of the festive season and the back-to-school period with greater ease,” Bairstow said.   During the campaign period, customers will be able to take out loans within the debt service ratio, with the existing interest rates applied to both new and existing customers. I&M Bank Chief Business Officer Gibson Nangono noted that the offer is available for clients who may need top ups, client who need new loans and even those with already existing loans. "At the heart of everything we do, our customers are always top priority, and I want to reiterate our commitment to being the bank that supports you, helps you grow, and always on your side. Looking ahead, we’re excited about what’s to come. We are working to improve and come up with new ways to make banking easier, more convenient, and more secure," Nangono said. Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at I&M Bank, noted that with this initiative, clients are able to stay afloat with some liquidity to cater to the demands of the festive season, as well as pay school fees and meet various other obligations they may have.   “We believe this campaign will enable our clients to achieve their objectives in a relaxed, stress-free, and planned manner, as the loan repayment holiday offers financial relief and allows them to better manage their finances during the festive season and beyond,” Nakiyaga stated. To take advantage of the initiative, customers can visit any of the I&M Bank branches. The launch event was spiced up by popular Afro Soul and R&B recording artist and performer Kenneth Mugabi, who performed many of his best tunes.

On Thursday November 7th, I&M Bank Uganda unveiled its latest innovation in digital banking; the I&M digital account, named Express Go. The Express Go Digital Account was announced at a press conference held at the bank’s headquarters at Kingdom Kampala. The Express Go account that is exclusively available on the I&M On-The-Go App, is designed to redefine affordable, convenient, customer-focused banking, with free bank-to-wallet transfers. Speaking at the launch, I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow, highlighted the bank’s commitment to enhancing customers’ banking experience by offering easier, more secure, and affordable banking solutions. “We understand that today’s customer expects seamless, convenient, on-the-go solutions, that don’t burden them with unnecessary fees. Express Go Digital Account offers exactly that. This account will offer free bank-to-wallet transfers, making it easy to transfer funds to your mobile wallet at no cost,” Bairstow stated. Alvin Musinguzi, the I&M Bank Head of e-Banking, took the media through a live demonstration of the convenience and ease of accessing the Express Go account. He explained that to open the account, one needs to visit the Play Store or Google Play option on their mobile phone, and download the I&M On-The-Go app, then select the 'Open Account' option, and follow the prompts. “All someone needs to open the account is their National Identity card details, a photo (in this case, a selfie), and a minimum opening deposit of Shs 10,000. The Express Go account is incredibly easy to open, with no complicated procedures. There are no fees for bank-to-wallet transfers, making it even more convenient for our customers,” said Musinguzi. Musinguzi took the media through the steps of opening the Express Go account, and the first journalist to successfully complete the process was rewarded Shs 500,000. Sam Ntulume, the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of I&M Bank, emphasized that while the Express Go account is designed to prioritize customer convenience and affordable banking, it also plays a crucial role in the bank's environmental sustainability efforts. “We are committed to reducing our environmental impact," Ntulume explained. "By promoting digital banking, through products like the Express Go, we aim to minimize the use of paper, hence reducing the need for physical documents and paperwork. This not only makes banking more efficient and accessible, but also supports our organization’s broader efforts to contribute to environmental conservation,” he added. Joseph Biryahwaho, I&M Bank's Head of Risk, assured the bank’s customers and the public about the security and reliability of the I&M On-The-Go app, home of Express Go. “At I&M Bank, we take security of our customer’s funds very seriously, and we are confident in the robust security measures embedded within the I&M On-The-Go app, which is the mother platform of the Express Go account,” said Biryahwaho. Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications I&M Bank noted that the bank is committed to providing innovative, customer-centric solutions that make banking easier and more accessible for everyone. “The launch of Express Go is part of I&M Bank’s broader strategy to lead in digital banking. We are continuously investing in technology to ensure our customers receive cutting-edge solutions that make banking easier, affordale and more secure,” Nakiyaga stated. The Express Go Digital Account is operational and can be accessed on the I&M On-The-Go app.

On Friday, October 11th, the Enjovu Family, in partnership with I&M Bank Uganda, held yet another successful Enjovu Family Business Conference at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel. The now bi-annual gathering brought together family business leaders, advisors, and like-minded peers. Organised under the theme- “Family Governance - Managing Conflict and Building Family Businesses to Last,” the conference focused on sharing perspectives on sustaining family businesses across generations. A panel of seasoned family business leaders and financial experts, led the discussions, sharing transformative insights and experiences. The Keynote speaker at the event was Mr. Jayesh Shah, the Group Managing Director of Sumaria Group, from Tanzania. He addressed the challenges facing family businesses today, highlighting lack of formal structures, inadequate succession planning, difficulties in balancing family and business interests, as well as the struggle to sustain enterprises across generations, as the major challenges facing family businesses in Africa. “Conflicts will always be part of families, but they tend to deepen when it comes to family businesses. However, family businesses should set up a formal board of directors, which may include both family and non-family members, for better decision-making, especially during conflicts,” Shah advised, adding, “Roles must be clearly defined to ensure that family members in leadership positions are qualified and accountable.” Mr. Emmanuel Katongole, the co-founder and Chairman of Quality Chemicals Limited, a co-founder and Executive Chairman of Cipla Quality Chemicals Limited, and founder of Vero Food Industries, was also part of the panel. In his presentation, Katongole urged family businesses to uphold integrity, to lay a proper foundation for all generations. “Family businesses need to maintain accurate financial records for stakeholders and the government. It’s crucial to differentiate between personal funds and obligations like taxes. Once you meet these obligations, managing your finances becomes much easier,” Katongole said. Katongole added that choosing a bank that understands your business needs is crucial for long-term success; “a supportive banking relationship can provide resources and guidance necessary to navigate financial challenges effectively.” I&M Bank Uganda Executive Director & Chief Operations Officer- Mr. Sam Ntulume, emphasized the rewards that come with a business partnering with a supportive financial service provider from its early days. He highlighted the importance for business owners understanding the stage when their business is fit to take financial risks, and the magnitude of the risk. “I&M Bank started as a family business, so we understand the unique dynamics of running family enterprises, and we have made it part of our business module to provide tailored financial solutions and guidance to family businesses. Our goal is to empower families to navigate challenges and seize opportunities,” Ntulume said. During the Fireside Chat themed "Health - The Greatest Wealth: Prioritizing Wellbeing in Family Business," Dr. Nandawula Kanyerezi Mutema, the Managing Director of The Clinic at The Mall, emphasized that family wellness should be both physical and mental health. “It’s about creating a positive environment, free from stress, that enables you to engage fully in all areas of life. Implementing measures that support overall well-being is essential for employees to thrive both at work and at home,” Dr. Nandawula stated. She also tackled the issue of mental health in the places of work, stating that; “it’s a universal issue that impacts employees’ well-being across the globe.” CSL Sim Katende, a Partner at Katende, Ssempebwa and Company Advocates (KATS), highlighted the importance of having constitutions in family businesses. “Many times, I receive calls from business owners requesting templates for existing constitutions, but I always urge them to take the time to create customised constitutions, that will reflect their unique values and goals. A well-crafted constitution not only provides clarity and structure, but also helps to prevent conflicts and ensures that everyone respects set rules and objectives for the business to grow,” he noted. Mr. Patrick Muta, Director of Advisory Services at PwC Uganda, emphasized the critical role of maintaining high-quality governance in family businesses. “Effective governance is essential for the long-term success of family businesses. It creates a solid foundation that fosters trust, accountability, and transparency among family members and stakeholders, enabling them to navigate challenges more effectively,” Muta stated. Annette Nakiyaga, the Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at I&M Bank, highlighted the importance of the partnership with Enjovu Family Business Conference in supporting family businesses. “It’s getting harder for family businesses to stay resilient due to the complexities of succession planning, shifting market dynamics, and managing generational transitions. By partnering with Enjovu Family Business Conference, we are offering financial guidance to help them grow and succeed. Through working together and sharing knowledge, we believe we can help family businesses overcome challenges and build lasting legacies,” Nakiyaga stated. The event attracted diverse generations and was attended by key figures including Owekitiibwa Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa, the Second Deputy Katikkiro and Minister of Finance of Buganda Kingdom, former Finance Minister Maria Kiwanuka, as well as former Uganda Investment Authority boss cum businesswoman/consultant Dr. Maggie Kigozi, among others.

A day after celebrating the golden jubilee in June this year, I&M Bank Uganda announced a Shs20m donation, towards supporting the caddies and course maintenance staff of Entebbe Club. This announcement was made during second edition of the I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series, and the donation was to support the school-going caddies, to help them stay in school, as well as the children of the caretakers of the course, who are mostly women. During the third edition of the series held on Saturday, September 28, 2024, the Series custodians revealed that the money had been received in the Entebbe Club account. "I can confirm the Shs20m is in the Entebbe Club account. Please join me to thank I&M Bank, for honoring their pledge to support our caddies and their families," said Katogo Captain- Elly Mukasa. I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow noted that the institution and Katogo are now one family, for, like Katogo, I&M Bank values partnerships that create an impact in societies. "As you all remember, in June, we pledged to donate Shs 20m, to support school going caddies, as well as the course maintenance staff and their children. I'm happy to announce that we have honored our pledge," Bairstow said, adding that he was happy that their relationship with the series stretching beyond the golf course and the 19th hole fun experiences, and impacting the community. The donation is one of a series of other critical CSR initiatives that have seen I&M Bank extend financial support towards different causes. “Yesterday (Friday September 27), we donated Shs20m towards the completion of the Nkozi Hospital accident and emergency center. The other week, we visited Masheruka Girls Secondary School in Sheema, and we handed over 16 full sets of computers, to improve and enhance the learning experience for the girls. As I&M Bank were happy to engage in initiatives that impact the communities where we operate, Bairstow added. Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications at I&M Bank, noted that giving back to the communities around them is a core part of the bank's identity. "It's not just about business for us; it's about creating meaningful change in the communities we serve. As a responsible institution, we believe in using our resources and influence to support education, health, and other areas that improve the quality of life. This commitment is at the heart of what we do and how we operate," Nakiyaga said. Meanwhile, earlier in the day, over 180 golfers took to the greens to showcase golfing skills, as they competed for bragging rights in the Russian Chicago Stableford' format. The tournament was blessed with a downpour, which greatly improved the playing conditions of the Entebbe Golf course, but affected the playing time, with several players failing to finish the 18 holes. It’s against that background that the management of series decided to consider only announce results from the front nine, to select and award winners. The evening saw Callaway Girls and Catapult emerge as the winning teams in the ladies' and men's categories, respectively. The former, comprising Dinah Ongol and Gloria Ihunde, beat the Serendipity team of Connie Nsemereirwe and Cathy Natukunda on countback after both teams returned 55 points, five points ahead of their followers, Fairway Zokka, comprising Edith Namalwa and Susan Acheng. The men's leaders, Denis Tela and Arthur Arinaitwe, posted 82 points. Team I&C, comprising Isiah Tugumenawe and Christopher Magezi, finished second with 57 points, Team AA, comprising of Allan Akira and Peter Atwiine, came third with 50 points, while Team Banca, comprising of Emmanuel Mwaka and David Wandera, beat Paul Kaheru and Peter Magona on countback (49 points), to finish fourth. The winners of the daily online trivia questions leading up to the main event, were also rewarded with bottles of Johnnie Walker Gold Reserve, with some participants triumphing more than once, hence winning more. The event was capped with old-school mixes from DJ Global, DJ Mark R, and DJ Selekta Herbo. Some golfers also challenged themselves on the decks, causing quite a stir as they showcased their hidden disc spinning talents, much to the crowd’s delight. The series’ grand finale is slated for December 7 and will be played under the ‘Double Bogey Danger’ format. The I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series is co-sponsored by Victoria Motors, Johnnie Walker, GA Insurance, Fenon Events, Goldman Furniture, and NBS Sport.

I&M Bank Uganda has donated 16 full sets of computers to Masheruka Girls’ Secondary School, in a bid to boost students' access to technology and ease learning. The official handover took place on Friday, September 20th, at the school, located in Masheruka Town Council, along the Kabwohe–Buhweju Road, in Sheema District. The I&M Bank delegation led by CEO Robin Bairstow, and the bank’s Chief Business Officer- Edward Gibson Nangono and Head of marketing and corporate affairs- Annette Nakiyaga, handed over the computers to the school administration, highlighting the bank's commitment towards bettering education in Uganda. The donation was received by Dr. Catherine Nuwagira Kangume, the Masheruka Girls’ Secondary School Headteacher, and witnessed by by Dr. Medard Twinamatsiko Katonera- the Chairperson of the board of governors, as well as school administrators, teachers, and student representatives. Dr Kangume welcomed the donation,and applauded I&M Bank for the critical step they undertook to improve the students' learning experience, as well as boost educational growth in the country. Dr. Twinamatsiko revealed that the school recently held a fundraising drive to build a modern science laboratory. He highlighted that the computer donation will significantly contribute towards the functionality of the lab. The day was capped with a tree planting exercise, that symbolized growth and renewal, as well as I&M Bank's commitment to environmental conservation that aims to create a stronger legacy for future generations.

The echoes of celebration still resonate as I&M Bank Uganda commemorated fifty years of banking excellence. The Golden Jubilee celebrations, held on Friday, June 28, 2024, at the Victoria Hall at the Kampala Serena Hotel, was a testament to the bank's enduring legacy and its profound impact on the Ugandan banking landscape. The event, which brought together a diverse array of stakeholders including customers, employees, regulators, partners, and dignitaries, was a resounding success. Guests were treated to an evening filled with festivities, heartfelt tributes, captivating entertainment, and networking opportunities. The grand celebrations will be followed by a golf tournament, the second leg of the Katogo Golf Series, slated for tomorrow on Saturday, June 29^th, at the Entebbe Golf Club. The celebrations will also see the banking institution participate in a series of CSR activities across the country, as well as engage customers and the business community in financial symposiums aimed at improving financial literacy. I&M Bank also has a mega music concert lined up as part of the golden jubilee celebrations. Reflecting on the 50-year journey, I&M Bank CEO, Robin Bairstow, expressed gratitude for the dedication of bank’s staff, the loyal customers, the support from partners, and the visionary leadership and the resilience by the institution’s founders, as some of the key aspects that have propelled the organisation forward, across the region over the past five decades. "We owe this milestone first to the resilience and a cross-generational vision of the founders of the I&M Group. The unwavering dedication of our employees, the loyal customers that have stood and grown with us, the invaluable support of our different partners, and the visionary leadership that has guided the business along the way," remarked Bairstow noted. Throughout the celebration, there was a palpable sense of pride in the bank's achievements and a shared excitement for the future. Guests had the opportunity to get first-hand knowledge about I&M Bank's latest initiatives, products, and services, aimed at enhancing customer experience and drive financial inclusion. The bank's commitment to innovation and digital transformation was spotlighted, underscoring its strategic focus on meeting the evolving needs of its customers in today's rapidly changing banking landscape. “Over time, I&M Bank has become the market leader in digitalization of products and services, enhancing customer convenience through introduction of innovative services like I&M Bank Mastercards, offshore banking, and our digital pod at Kingdom Kampala, that has significantly changed ATM banking,” Bairstow added. Bairstow took a moment to reflect on the bank's commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. He highlighted the bank's CSR activities, which aim to support the community and individuals in need. Bairstow reiterated the importance of these initiatives in fostering a stronger bond with clients and contributing to the welfare of society as a whole. "The golden jubilee is a testament not only to our longevity, but also to the lasting impact we've had on the communities we serve and the individuals whose lives we've touched,” Bairstow stated. Bairstow highlighted that the bank has a series of community outreach programs and business symposiums lined up in different parts of the country, as a continuation of the golden jubilee celebrations. As I&M Bank embarks on its next chapter, it does so with renewed vigor, guided by a deep sense of gratitude for the past and a steadfast commitment to excellence, innovation, and community service. The Golden Jubilee celebrations, which are spread across all East African countries where the bank has presence, served as a poignant reminder of the institution’s enduring legacy and its unwavering dedication to shaping the future of banking in Uganda and beyond.

Heralded as the most sought-after sporting event on the bankers’ calendar, the annual Bankers Gala was held on Sunday, October 16 at Kyambogo Sports Grounds. Running under the theme “Fitness, Wellness, Networking and Teamwork”, the gala attracted participation from various finance and banking institutions. The participation was a clear indicator that the Bankers Gala is still true to her founding principles of networking, interacting, and sharing knowledge. Goretti Masadde, the Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services, the gala organisers, commended all the participants for the successful event. “We take pride in the impact the gala has made within the banking industry. And to all the participants, your patronage is vital to the gala’s overall success. It was amazing to see bankers leaving the business world and coming to the fitness world to compete in a healthy way,” Goretti said. The I&M Bank Uganda team put up a stellar performance by overrunning most of their opponents in the day-long games. The team beat UGAFODE 1-0, had a goalless draw against ABSA Bank, then bounced back with a win over Equity Bank 1-0, and another win over Opportunity Bank (1-0), before falling to Stanbic Bank in the Quarterfinals. The team also put up a stellar performance in basketball, athletics, and outdoor games. The I&M Bank Uganda team manager Godfrey Odoch said that their unwavering drive to win enabled them to reach extraordinary heights. “The gala is more than a competition, it is a chance for us to reconnect, to come together as a team in a different environment. We have had a tough, but good day, and I believe it’s our consistent drive to give nothing less than our best, that enabled us to end the day with shining results,” Odoch said. He also noted that through participation in the different sporting activities at the gala, the I&M Bank team was able to discover, review, and re-strategize their strengths and garner a sense of responsibility through teamwork. The 2022 Bankers Gala was indeed a huge success, as it achieved its goal of networking and celebrating the movers and shakers in the banking industry. All winning institutions will be rewarded at the next Bankers Gala tournament scheduled to take place on Sunday 23^rd October 2022 at Lugogo Indoor Stadium.

I&M Bank Uganda has today joined the rest of the world to celebrate this year’s Customer Service Week, with a commitment to offering an unmatched customer experience. Customer Service Week (CS Week) is an international week-long event celebrated annually during the first week of October when customer-oriented organizations and institutions around the world recognize the importance of customer service excellence. The bank took the launch of their celebrations a notch higher by having their staff across their different branches dress down in replica school uniforms. I&M Bank Uganda’s Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications, Annette Nakiyaga said that Customer Service Week is an opportunity to celebrate their customers and re-emphasize their commitment to offering consummate customer service. Annette also revealed that the bank is using this period to introduce new Customer Service Standards across all their branches. “At I&M Bank, the Customer Service Week not only gives us an opportunity to exhibit our unrivalled customer service but also helps us extend our appreciation to our customer care team for the outstanding role they play in improving our customer relations. This time helps us to get closer to our customers, understand what is working and reflect on areas where we need to improve. It’s against that background that I&M Group decided to use this period to introduce new Customer Service Standards that shall be adopted across all our branches and service points,” said Annette. She added that the bank recognizes the power of customers and expressed her gratitude to the clients for their patronage and loyalty over the past year. “We do not take lightly the opportunity we have to serve our customers. Their patronage is of great importance to us, and we can never take that for granted. We commit to continue focusing on delivering the very best products and services to meet their current and future financial needs,” Annette added Ronnie Zalwango, the I&M Bank Manager, Corporate Communications & Marketing stressed that every day is a customer service day at I&M Bank. She also highlighted the importance of the bank trying to engage in activities that bring them closer to their customers during the customer service week celebrations. “This year is particularly important because as we celebrate our customers, we will also celebrate the efficient, friendly, and helpful colleagues, who are our service champions across our branches. It’s always a pleasure to share our quality services with our customers, we can’t wait to do more,” Ronnie added. The bank staff at different levels looked younger as they turned out in different school uniforms and cut cakes to launch the celebrations. According to Ronnie, I&M Bank Uganda has lined up a series of exciting activities to celebrate and reward customers and employees during the course of this week. The activities shall include customer gifting, blood donation drives at selected branches, mini service surveys, staff recognition and rewards. The 2022 Customer Service Week runs from today (3rd October) until 7th October 2022.

The Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services (UIBFS) is set to host the 22nd Annual Bankers’ Gala slated to run from September 30th to October 31st. The Bankers Gala 2022 was launched with a symbolic run by several Chief Executive Officers of leading financial institutions, at the Kampala Sheraton Hotel on Thursday, September 29th, 2022. International Olympic Committee (IOC) member William Blick presided over the event as Chief Guest. Blick thanked UIBFS for taking sports seriously and appealed to the financial institutions involved in the gala to constructively engage their customers to follow and participate. “I want to thank UIBFS for taking sports seriously, but I also wish that all players involved can appeal to their customers to actively get involved in the gala, that’s the only way it can get bigger every other year.  Eight million people bank both formally and informally, if we could have only 30% of those participating in this gala, then we will not only have a bigger event, but a healthier population as well,” Blick said. Blick also urged banks to start up programs to help sensitize athletes on financial literacy, so that they are able to make well informed long term, and profitable financial decisions. I&M Bank, which joined the market in November 2021, after acquiring Orient Bank, will be joining the rest of the commercial banks in Uganda to compete in the Bankers Gala 2022. Addressing the media at the launch ceremony, I&M Bank representative Godfrey Odoch, who also serves as the Sports Team Manager at I&M Bank applauded the founders and organisers of the gala, for laying a strong foundation that has enabled the initiative to stand the test of time. “I&M Bank is excited to be part of the Bankers Gala 2022; this is our first debut since our rebrand to I&M Bank and the plan is to make it a memorable one for us. The gala is a testament to how far we continue to push boundaries for our clients as the banking sector,” said Odoch. “In a special way, I applaud the founders and organisers of this gala, whose courage, determination, and ability birthed a sector unifying initiative,” he added. The one-month-long gala will see the country’s leading finance and banking players compete in virtual games like the 21 days fitness challenge, online quiz, and Outdoor games like football, netball, volleyball, and basketball among others. The gala will also include indoor games like table tennis, badminton, and chess. The Bankers Sports Gala will be climaxed with a run that will be held on ‘the World Savings Day slated for October 31st. The run will comprise of categories ranging from 3km, 5km to 10km. Since its inception in the early 2000s, the gala has provided a platform for the bankers to network, interact and share knowledge.

Financial advisory giants I&M Burbidge Capital in partnership with BDO East Africa held the BDO-I&M Burbidge Capital Symposium at UAP Business Park Nakawa on Tuesday, September 27 to provide clients with innovative and practical solutions to their financial challenges. The symposium enriched the invited guests comprised of high-net-worth individuals and I&M Bank corporate customers with the intricacies of a successful capital raising process and the major pitfalls to avoid in the changing tax environment. Speaking during the symposium, I&M Bank Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kumaran Pather noted that the bank has made significant strides in the past one year and highlighted the importance of ensuring that their clients make similar progress with enough financial knowledge and a wide range of well-researched options. “I&M Capital Burbidge has rich experience and a good track record in corporate finance. The combination with BDO East Africa is meant to focus on equipping our clients with innovative and practical solutions to their challenges. This is one way to offer our loyal customers the full spectrum of financial recommendations for the growth of their businesses,” said Mr Pather. Edward Burbidge, the founder of I&M Burbidge Capital took the business owners through a wide range of well-researched financial solutions and the different services they provide. Burbidge engaged business owners on carefully making capital choices for their investments, based on case studies of companies he has offered advisory services to in Uganda. “I moved to East Africa in 2010 and I started my business from scratch. I have been through the process myself; I have managed to bring investors into my business. Before you go out to the Capital Markets, the first question to ask yourself is whether you need the money,” Burbidge noted. Edward also added that I&M Burbidge’s partnership with BDO Uganda is aimed at joining forces to be able to offer clients a wide range of services like financial accounting, working capital and availing a collection of experts at their clients’ disposal. Kenneth Makanga, a Managing Partner at BDO Uganda, explained that their choice to partner with financial muscles I&M Bank and I&M Burbidge Capital is to strengthen their customer base and be able to offer a wider range of services. “Our partnership with I&M Bank and I&M Burbidge Capital is intended to help our clients navigate the space of sourcing for finances. We believe by the end of this symposium, the clients will have more solutions than problems,” he said. I&M Burbidge Capital specialises in advising businesses on significant capital raising through IPOs, private equity, mergers & acquisition and debt transactions. The firm mainly focuses on mid and large-sized companies with typical transaction sizes of $2 million to $250 million. BDO East Africa delivers a range of audit, tax, accounting and advisory services to clients across small, medium-sized enterprises, large businesses and cross-border corporations operating in all the major sectors of the economy. I&M Group Plc is a leader in the financial services industry in East Africa with a significant presence in the banking, insurance, manufacturing and real estate sectors. They have operations in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Mauritius. It is listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange.