Standard Chartered Bank Uganda has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the country’s economic transformation, underscoring its strategic focus on Corporate and Investment Banking, governance, and support for Uganda’s development agenda.
The reaffirmation came during the announcement of the appointment of Next Media Group Chief Executive Officer, Kin Kariisa, as an Independent Non-Executive Director on the bank’s Board.
The bank says the move is part of a broader effort to strengthen governance as it transitions further towards Corporate and Investment Banking, in line with its long-term strategic direction.
Speaking during the announcement, Standard Chartered Bank Uganda Chief Executive Officer Sanjay Rughani said the current economic environment demands stronger institutional support and disciplined investment to achieve Uganda’s growth ambitions.
“We live in a period where the economy is asking more of every major institution. Uganda is pursuing an ambitious growth path through the tenfold growth agenda, which demands planning, investment, discipline, and institutions that are willing to play a supportive role in enabling that transformation,” Rughani said.
He added that the bank’s focus on Corporate and Investment Banking is intended to support productive sectors critical to Uganda’s long-term development.
“As a cross-border bank, our focus on Corporate and Investment Banking is central to supporting the productive sectors that matter to Uganda’s long-term growth,” he said.
Rughani also welcomed Kariisa’s appointment, describing it as a deliberate step to reinforce governance and strengthen oversight.
“Strong institutions attract strong leaders. This appointment is about stewardship, continuity and oversight. It signals that as a bank we are investing in governance today to protect and enable long-term value for the public and our stakeholders in the future,” he said.
Kariisa said his appointment to the Board was both an honour and a responsibility, noting that his background in media and brand building would contribute to the bank’s strategic direction.
“I grew up watching banking from a distance back in Mbarara. To now sit on the Standard Chartered Board is not something I take lightly,” he said.
He added that Uganda needs strong and reputable financial institutions to drive its economic transformation.
“At Next Media, we have spent years building brands and we know what a great brand looks and feels like. Standard Chartered is a great brand. A serious bank. Uganda needs an institution like this, and I am happy to be here to contribute to its transformational journey,” Kariisa said.
He noted that the bank is well positioned to shape the country’s financial future rather than merely respond to it.
