Equity bank recently joined the rest of the world to celebrate the Global Energy Independence day, reaffirming its commitment to advancing sustainable energy access through innovative financing solutions.
Through the bank’s Equi-Green credit facility initiative, Equity bank has become a cornerstone in the country’s transition to cleaner, renewable energy sources, empowering thousands of households, small businesses and institutions.
Since its launch in 2022, Equity bank has disbursed more than Shs 22 billion through the Equi-Green program, enabling over 51,000 clean energy products to reach Ugandans. These include solar energy systems, clean cookstoves, water storage tanks, and solar-powered irrigation schemes.
James Mwangi, the managing director of Equity Bank Uganda, stated that the bank’s mission is to make sustainable energy accessible and affordable, particularly for low-income communities in rural areas.
“By providing flexible loans starting from Shs 200, 000 we are helping households shift away from polluting energy sources like charcoal and firewood toward cleaner alternatives,” he said in a statement.
The impact extends beyond individual households. Solar systems funded through Equi-Green have improved safety and productivity in schools and health centers. Clean cookstoves have reduced harmful smoke inhalation risks, while water tanks support better hygiene and health outcomes.
This commitment is reflected in Uganda’s Energy Transition Plan, which was unveiled in 2023 and the National Development Plan IV of 2025 to 2030, which prioritizes energy access, affordability and sustainability, alongside leveraging its oil and gas potential and significant renewable energy resources.
By doing this, Equity bank is supporting the efforts of the Uganda government, which has demonstrated a strong and ongoing commitment to achieving energy independence through a multi-faceted approach that balances oil and gas development with the advancement of renewable energy resources and infrastructure.
The theme for this year’s celebration “Empower Local, Power the Planet,” resonates with the bank’s approach. Equity bank’s partnerships with over 18 clean energy providers demonstrate how financial institutions can accelerate green transformations.