Stanbic Bank Uganda has donated 35 solar-powered street lights valued at approximately Shs 100 million to Kabale University as part of activities marking the bank’s 35 years of operations in Uganda under the Standard Bank Group.
The donation will improve safety, security and visibility across the university campus while promoting the use of clean and renewable energy.
The initiative reflects Stanbic Bank’s purpose, “Uganda is our home, we drive her growth,” and its commitment to investing in education, sustainability and community development.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Stanbic Bank Uganda Chief Executive Mumba Kalifungwa said the donation demonstrates the bank’s belief that investing in people is the most sustainable way to drive national development.
“As we celebrate 35 years of operating in Uganda, we are reminded that our success is closely linked to the progress of the communities we serve. While anniversaries allow us to reflect on milestones achieved, they also challenge us to ask how we can create even greater impact over the next 35 years. Our answer is simple: invest in people,” Kalifungwa said.
He noted that the 35 solar-powered street lights represent more than a commemorative gift.
“Beyond improving visibility, these lights will enhance safety and security for students, lecturers and visitors while promoting the use of clean energy. Every student who walks safely across campus in the evening and every lecturer who leaves work with greater confidence will remind us that meaningful partnerships create lasting impact.”
Kalifungwa commended Kabale University for expanding access to higher education since becoming a public university in 2015 and for its contribution to research, community outreach and regional development.
“Education remains one of the most important investments any country can make because universities nurture the leaders, entrepreneurs, scientists and innovators who will solve tomorrow’s challenges. As Stanbic Bank, we believe investing in education is investing directly in Uganda’s future.”
He added that Stanbic’s investment in education extends beyond infrastructure through initiatives such as the Stanbic National Schools Championship, which nurtures innovation among young people.
Kalifungwa also highlighted the bank’s Positive Impact Agenda, under which Stanbic aims to mobilise Shs 1 trillion by 2028 to empower women, youth and farmers through financial inclusion, enterprise development and sustainable growth.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Associate Professor Helen Musanabera Byamugisha, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration hailed Stanbic Bank for having community transformation initiatives at heart, describing it as a timely investment in campus safety and infrastructure.
“We are grateful to Stanbic Bank for this valuable contribution. The solar-powered street lights will improve visibility and create a safer environment for students and staff. This partnership demonstrates the important role the private sector can play in supporting institutions of higher learning while advancing quality education.”
She added that the project supports the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability by promoting renewable energy while reducing dependence on conventional electricity. She also expressed optimism that the partnership with Stanbic would expand to include financial literacy, research and student empowerment initiatives.
Kabale Resident District Commissioner Major (Rtd) Godfrey Katamba welcomed the initiative, saying security is fundamental to creating a conducive learning environment.
“A university is a home, a centre for research and a place where students should feel entirely safe. This contribution addresses one of our highest priorities security.”
He encouraged the university to maintain the solar-powered street lights to ensure they continue benefiting students and staff for years to come.
Justus Drake Kyarikunda the Kabale University Guild President, said the installation of the lights responds to a long-standing concern among students, particularly those attending evening lectures and late-night study sessions.
“We appreciate Stanbic Bank for partnering with the university to improve safety and the overall student experience.”
Established in 2002 by the people of Kigezi, Kabale University has grown from 42 students into a public university serving learners from across Uganda and neighbouring countries. It offers programmes in medicine, agriculture, engineering, computing, law, education, tourism and other disciplines, with a mission to provide quality education, research and innovation for societal transformation.
The solar street-light project adds to Stanbic Bank Uganda’s broader sustainability and corporate social investment initiatives, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to delivering practical solutions that improve communities while supporting Uganda’s long-term social and economic development.
