The Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services (UIBFS), in partnership with the Uganda Bankers Association (UBA), launched the 2025 Annual Bankers’ Sports Gala on the evening of September 5th at the UBA offices in Muyenga.
The event kicked off with the highly anticipated Bankers’ Run/Walk, which also marked the start of the 30-Day Fitness Challenge—a new health-driven initiative where participants commit to walking 5,000 steps daily for 30 days to earn medals and points for their institutions.
This year’s Sports Gala carries the theme: “Beyond the Finish Line,” symbolizing endurance, collaboration, and holistic well-being among professionals in Uganda’s financial services sector.
The evening began with the arrival and registration of participants, who were then briefed and signed up on the UIBFS Fitness App—a newly launched platform designed to track daily steps, monitor team progress, and provide updates on upcoming games. Participants were then treated to energizing Zumba sessions, setting an upbeat tone for the evening.
The Chief Walker/Runner officially flagged off the 3KM, 5KM, and 7KM routes. Bankers from across the sector took to the course with enthusiasm, showcasing teamwork, endurance, and a shared commitment to wellness.
Speaking at the event, Goretti Masadde, CEO of UIBFS, emphasized the importance of wellness beyond the workplace.
“This gala is not just about competition. It is a platform where we, as bankers and financial professionals, step away from our desks to connect, to celebrate teamwork, and to promote wellness. While we work hard to keep our sector strong, we must also take care of ourselves,” she said.
Wilbrod Owor, Executive Director of UBA, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of health and wellness in the banking profession.
“This event is essential for the well-being of staff across the industry. UBA remains committed to partnering with UIBFS to create even more sustainable and engaging ways to organize the gala,” he said.
Michael K. Mugabi, Board Chair of UIBFS, praised the innovation behind this year’s event and reflected on the deeper meaning of the theme.
“This year’s theme, ‘Beyond the Finish Line,’ could not be more relevant. It speaks to endurance and the determination to go further than expected. Just like in our sector, where challenges demand innovation and persistence, today’s run is not only about crossing the line—it is about pushing ourselves, supporting one another, and embracing wellness as a lifestyle,” Mugabi stated.
Running from September 5th to October 19th, 2025, the Annual Bankers’ Sports Gala will feature a dynamic lineup of games and activities, including: Indoor & outdoor sports, Swimming competitions, Quizzes, CEO/ExCo Golf Tournament and more team-building games
The newly launched UIBFS Sports Gala App will allow institutions and their staff to track their progress in the 30-Day Fitness Challenge and stay updated on scheduled events and competitions throughout the season.
This year’s sports gala brings together staff from across the banking and financial services ecosystem, including: Bank of Uganda, ABSA Bank, Bank of Baroda, Cairo Bankm, Centenary Bank, Diamond Trust Bank, DFCU Bank, Equity Bank, Ecobank, Exim Bank, Finance Trust Bank, Financial Intelligence Authority, FINCA MDI and GT Bank.
Other banks include; Housing Finance Bank, I&M Bank, KCB Bank, NCBA, PostBank, Tropical Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Stanbic Bank, United Bank for Africa, Uganda Development Bank, UGAFODE MDI and ABD Capital Bank.
The 2025 Annual Bankers’ Sports Gala is more than a competition—it’s a collective statement that health, unity, and well-being matter in building a resilient, high-performing financial sector.
With momentum already building after the successful launch, the next six weeks promise excitement, engagement, and a renewed focus on wellness “beyond the finish line.”
