equity bank signals greener future with new board chair
By Felix Oketcho
As sustainability increasingly shapes the future of banking, Equity Bank Uganda has signaled its intention to remain at the forefront of responsible growth with the appointment of Henry Rugamba as the new Non-Executive Chairman of its Board of Directors.
The appointment, which took effect on June 15, 2026, marks a significant leadership transition for one of Uganda’s leading financial institutions. Rugamba succeeds Mark Ocitti, whose tenure was characterized by strategic growth, institutional strengthening, and enhanced shareholder value.
More than a routine boardroom change, the transition comes at a time when financial institutions across Africa are being called upon to play a greater role in addressing climate change, advancing financial inclusion, supporting entrepreneurship, and driving sustainable economic development.
Rugamba brings over 30 years of experience in strategic communications, corporate affairs, governance, stakeholder engagement, and leadership. His career has seen him advise both public and private sector institutions on reputation management, crisis response, corporate strategy, and public affairs.
Currently serving as Chairman of BAT Uganda and Harris International Uganda, Rugamba is widely recognized for his ability to build strong institutions, navigate complex stakeholder environments, and champion long-term strategic thinking.
Speaking on the appointment, Equity Group Chairman Prof. Isaac Macharia expressed confidence in Rugamba’s ability to guide the bank into its next phase of growth.
“His diverse background in public relations, communications, stakeholder engagement and strategic advisory services brings a wealth of experience that will support the Bank’s strategic direction,” Macharia noted.
The appointment aligns with Equity Bank’s broader vision of creating shared prosperity through inclusive and sustainable finance.
Over the years, Equity Bank and the Equity Group Foundation have invested heavily in programmes that extend beyond traditional banking. These initiatives focus on empowering entrepreneurs, supporting education, improving livelihoods, strengthening agricultural value chains, and promoting environmental stewardship.
Among the Group’s most notable sustainability interventions is its Green Initiatives Programme, which supports renewable energy adoption, climate-smart agriculture, environmental conservation, water resource management, and green enterprise development.
The programme reflects a growing recognition that economic progress and environmental sustainability are interconnected. By supporting businesses and communities to adopt greener practices, Equity continues to position itself as a financial institution committed not only to profitability but also to long-term social and environmental impact.
This philosophy has become increasingly important as Uganda and the wider African continent confront the realities of climate change, environmental degradation, and growing pressure on natural resources.
Financial institutions are now expected to finance solutions that strengthen resilience while creating economic opportunities. Equity Bank has responded by integrating sustainability into its development agenda and supporting initiatives that contribute to both economic transformation and environmental protection.
Rugamba’s leadership is expected to strengthen this trajectory. His experience in governance, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement is seen as a valuable asset as the bank expands its role in supporting sustainable businesses, green investments, and inclusive economic growth.
Meanwhile, the Board paid tribute to outgoing Chairman Mark Ocitti for his distinguished service and contribution to the institution’s success.
Under Ocitti’s leadership, Equity Bank Uganda consolidated its market position, expanded its institutional capacity, and recorded steady growth that reinforced its standing within Uganda’s competitive banking sector.
As the bank enters a new chapter, the leadership transition reflects continuity in governance while opening fresh opportunities to deepen its sustainability agenda.
For Equity Bank Uganda, the future is increasingly defined not only by financial performance, but by the ability to create lasting value for people, communities, and the environment. With Henry Rugamba assuming the chairmanship, the institution appears determined to strengthen that commitment and continue building a model of banking that delivers both economic and sustainable impact.
