Ugandan small and medium enterprises (SMEs) emphasized growth strategies and risk management during a recent engagement with dfcu Bank leaders, highlighting the need for tailored financial solutions and proactive business planning. The discussion, held at the dfcu Ndeeba branch during the Kyusa Level SME Customer Dine-Out, focused on challenges such as rising operational costs, cash-flow constraints, and the importance of asset protection. Entrepreneurs underscored the role of banking partners in understanding the complexities of their operations, from liquidity management to long-term investment decisions. The event reflected broader concerns among SMEs, which constitute a critical pillar of Uganda’s economy but face increasing pressures from shifting market dynamics and competitive pressures. William Kayongo, Head of Enterprise Banking at dfcu Bank, stressed that sustainable growth hinges on financial discipline alongside ambition. He warned against conflating personal and business finances, noting that unplanned expenses could jeopardize critical operations like supplier payments and payroll. Kayongo emphasized that business owners must prioritize cash-flow management and risk mitigation to ensure resilience. Arthur Kintu, Head of Bancassurance, echoed these sentiments, advocating for risk protection to be integrated into business planning rather than treated as an afterthought. He highlighted that SME assets often represent years of investment and should be safeguarded as part of core operational strategies. Mathias Jumba, Head of Integrated Channels, noted that direct engagement with entrepreneurs allows the bank to tailor support based on a business’s lifecycle stage. He explained that startups require different resources compared to scaling enterprises, and these conversations help identify relevant solutions. Rebecca Birungi, Chief Financial Officer, emphasized the value of customer insights in shaping dfcu’s offerings. She stated that the Kyusa Level series fosters open dialogue about SMEs’ ambitions and challenges, ensuring the bank remains a trusted partner in their growth journeys. The event also addressed specific banking needs, including financing that aligns with the pace of business operations. The Kyusa Level SME Customer Dine-Out Series underscores dfcu Bank’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s SME sector through targeted financial products and advisory services. By prioritizing direct interaction with business owners, the bank aims to address both immediate operational hurdles and long-term strategic goals. Participants left the session with renewed focus on balancing growth with prudence, while the bank reaffirmed its role in fostering a resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem. The discussions highlight the evolving relationship between financial institutions and SMEs, where collaboration is key to navigating economic uncertainties and driving sustainable development.
The Independent Uganda, September 29, 2026
Ugandan SMEs Prioritize Growth and Risk Mitigation in dfcu Dialogue
The Independent Uganda, September 29, 2026
Ugandan SMEs Prioritize Growth and Risk Mitigation in dfcu Dialogue