In a bold move to strengthen its presence beyond East Africa, Equity Bank Uganda has announced its participation in the upcoming 3rd Annual Convention of the Confederation of Ugandans in Southern Africa (COUSA), set to take place from August 1 to 3, 2025, in Johannesburg, South Africa. This strategic expansion underscores the bank’s commitment to serving the growing Ugandan diaspora and fostering economic growth through innovative financial services. With the event just days away, excitement is building among Ugandans abroad and financial enthusiasts alike.
A Strategic Move to Connect with the Diaspora
Equity Bank’ will be offering a platform for Ugandans to connect, network, and explore financial opportunities.
This move follows Equity Bank Uganda’s successful outreach to the Ugandan diaspora in the United Arab Emirates in 2024, where it introduced specialized services such as diaspora accounts, investment advice, and remittance solutions tailored to expatriates. The Johannesburg convention represents a natural progression, targeting a region where the Ugandan diaspora plays a significant economic role. According to the Bank of Uganda, remittance inflows to Uganda reached an impressive $1.43 billion in 2023, accounting for nearly 3% of the country’s GDP—a clear indicator of the diaspora’s financial influence.
The COUSA Convention: A Hub for Unity and Growth
The COUSA Convention, now in its third year, serves as a vital gathering for Ugandans in Southern Africa, uniting professionals, business leaders, and policymakers. Founded in 2018 as a non-profit organization, COUSA aims to foster dialogue, collaboration, and cultural celebration among the diaspora. The 2025 edition, themed around economic empowerment and strategic networking, promises to build on the success of previous conventions, offering three days of dynamic discussions and opportunities.
Equity Bank’s participation aligns seamlessly with COUSA’s mission. The bank will leverage the event to introduce its financial products and services, including tailored banking solutions for expatriates and support for diaspora investments. Attendees can expect interactive sessions, one-on-one consultations, and insights into how Equity Bank can facilitate wealth creation and financial inclusion for Ugandans living abroad.
Supporting Uganda’s Diaspora Policy
Equity Bank’s focus on the diaspora comes at a time when the Ugandan government is intensifying efforts to harness the economic potential of its expatriates. In 2023, the government launched a comprehensive diaspora policy aimed at strengthening ties with Ugandans abroad, encouraging remittances, and promoting investment opportunities back home. This policy aligns with initiatives by the Bank of Uganda to ease remittance bottlenecks and expand avenues for diaspora contributions to national development.
For individuals like Edriss Kironde, a Ugandan living in the United States for 28 years, such efforts are transformative. As highlighted in a recent IOM Uganda report, remittances are the “lifeblood” of millions of families and a powerful engine for sustainable development. Equity Bank’s presence in Johannesburg is poised to empower the diaspora further, offering accessible financial tools to bridge the gap between Uganda and its global community.
What to Expect at the Convention
The COUSA Convention will feature a packed agenda, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, and cultural celebrations. Equity Bank will have a prominent role, showcasing its commitment to financial inclusion and diaspora support. Attendees are encouraged to visit the bank’s booth to learn about account openings, investment options, and remittance services designed for Ugandans in Southern Africa.
The event’s timing—from August 1 to 3, 2025—coincides with a period of heightened diaspora activity, making it an ideal opportunity for networking and collaboration. Whether you’re a business owner, professional, or student, the convention offers a chance to engage with Equity Bank and explore how its services can support your goals.
Looking Ahead
As Equity Bank Uganda plants its flag in Johannesburg, this move signals a broader vision of regional expansion and diaspora engagement. With the bank’s proven track record in East Africa and its innovative approach to serving expatriates, the Johannesburg convention could mark the beginning of a new chapter. For Ugandans abroad, this is more than a banking event—it’s a chance to reconnect with their roots while building a prosperous future.
