“For more than six decades, dfcu has been part of Uganda’s economic transformation, supporting businesses, expanding financial inclusion and creating opportunities for individuals and communities. We recognise that our responsibility extends beyond financial performance to the contribution we make to the society that sustains our business. Our inaugural Report to Society brings that responsibility into focus. It documents the impact of our work while reinforcing the importance of sound governance, transparent reporting and responsible decision-making. We are sharing these results not simply to celebrate our progress, but to give our stakeholders a basis on which to assess our contribution and challenge us to do more,” she said.
Dr. Kiryabwire noted that the report provided a foundation for progressively strengthening dfcu’s sustainability reporting and accountability practices, while remaining focused on the practical outcomes of its work. The publication also highlighted dfcu Bank’s Women in Business programme, which has supported more than 80,000 women entrepreneurs. The initiative reflects the Bank’s longstanding efforts to widen women’s participation in economic activity by supporting enterprise development and access to financial services.
Mr. Charles M. Mudiwa MD & CEO, dfcu Bank emphasized that banking relies on public trust and resource stewardship. He noted that sustainability aligns with traditional Ugandan principles of preserving resources for future generations, and this report marks dfcu’s first comprehensive public accounting of that responsibility.
“Uganda’s understanding of sustainability did not begin with the introduction of environmental, social and governance frameworks. Our communities have long understood the importance of protecting the natural world, preserving what matters and ensuring that future generations can benefit from what has been entrusted to them. That same principle applies to banking. Our customers and stakeholders entrust us with their money, their businesses and their confidence. We therefore have a responsibility to account for how we use those resources and what they help us achieve. This report is our first comprehensive step in bringing that account to the public and demonstrating how dfcu has contributed to the livelihoods, enterprises and communities that make up Uganda,” he said.
Dr. James Ssemwanga Chairperson, dfcu Foundation highlighted the Foundation’s 2024 evolution from a Business Development Centre. The strategy focuses on bolstering the “missing middle”—promising enterprises that require skills, market connections, and capital to scale. The Foundation aims to support 100,000 additional beneficiaries between 2025 and 2030.
Mr. Jimmy D. Mugerwa (Chairman, dfcu Limited): Affirmed that the holding company provides strategic oversight to ensure the entire Group balances strong financial performance with responsible corporate citizenship and enduring social impact.
