Housing Finance Bank Expands Footprint with New Soroti Branch, Distributes 1,500 Trees to Promote Sustainability

Housing Finance Bank has unveiled its newest branch in Soroti, a key step in its ongoing effort to bring reliable and accessible financial services closer to communities across Uganda. The branch, situated at Plot 67 Gweri Road along Soroti Main Street, is designed to serve individuals, farmers, traders, and small enterprises within the Teso sub-region.

The Soroti opening increases the bank’s national network to 22 branches, reaffirming its commitment to financial inclusion and broad-based economic empowerment. The new branch will offer a full range of services, including savings and current accounts, personal loans, and mortgage financing to support families and individuals working toward home ownership and personal development.

Farmers and agribusiness players will have access to agricultural loans, equipment financing, and tailored credit solutions to enhance production and value addition. Traders and MSMEs in the region will benefit from business accounts, working capital support, and advisory services aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and employment opportunities. Customers will also enjoy secure mobile and online banking options for convenient, round-the-clock transactions.

Vice President Jessica Alupo, who officiated at the launch, praised the initiative for advancing balanced regional development.
“Today marks an important moment in Soroti’s economic journey. This branch brings financial services closer to the people, tackles exclusion, and strengthens regional progress,” she said. Alupo also encouraged small and medium businesses to tap into the government’s Small Business Recovery Fund—administered through partner banks such as Housing Finance Bank—to help them rebuild and grow after the COVID-19 impact.

Representing the Bank of Uganda Director of Commercial Banking, Hannington Wasswa highlighted government efforts to stimulate economic growth and congratulated the bank on its expansion.
“This branch signals strong confidence in Uganda’s financial sector and Housing Finance Bank’s capacity to serve communities sustainably. Branches remain vital for SMEs, farmers, and households that benefit from personalized guidance. With Soroti growing into an agro-industrial hub, this investment will strengthen financial inclusion and regional enterprise development,” he said.

Housing Finance Bank Managing Director, Michael K. Mugabi, reaffirmed the institution’s mission to uplift communities.
“The Soroti branch demonstrates our commitment to empowering individuals, supporting businesses, and delivering solutions that create lasting impact. Our focus is to make banking accessible, affordable, and transformative for every Ugandan,” he noted.

The event was attended by Soroti City leaders, including Resident City Commissioner John Michael Okurut, Mayor Joshua Edogu, and district leaders from Kumi, Serere, and neighboring areas.

As part of its Tiny Forest Initiative, the bank distributed 1,500 tree seedlings during the launch to promote environmental conservation and climate resilience—underscoring its belief that sustainable development requires balancing economic progress with environmental protection.

The Soroti opening comes just a week after the launch of a new branch in Nansana, one of Kampala’s rapidly growing commercial centers. Together, these expansions highlight the bank’s dedication to widening financial access, supporting sustainable enterprises, and enabling home ownership for Ugandans.

Annah Akatusinguza