By Sandra Kahunde
The Bank of Uganda has recognised Pearl Bank for its performance under the Agricultural Credit Facility (ACF) and the Small Business Fund schemes. The recognition was announced at a workshop held on April 22, 2026 at Hotel Africana.
The ACF, implemented jointly by Bank of Uganda and participating financial institutions, is aimed at increasing access to medium and long-term financing for agriculture at affordable rates.
Under the scheme, Pearl Bank recorded growth in its agricultural loan portfolio, supported by lending to both commercial and smallholder farmers.
The bank says its agricultural portfolio has grown by about 180 percent since 2020, driven by products such as seasonal working capital loans, risk-sharing facilities and partnerships under government programmes.
Pearl Bank Supervisor for Agriculture and Partnerships, Julius Akais, said the bank is focused on expanding access to affordable financing in the agriculture sector.
“The bank is committed to creating an enabling environment for Ugandans to gain access to affordable financing solutions to bridge the financing gap in Uganda’s agriculture sector, which remains a cornerstone of the national economy,” he said.
Akais added that the bank has tailored products along value chains including coffee, dairy, grains, poultry and horticulture, supporting investment in equipment, irrigation, storage and value addition.
Bank of Uganda also recognised individuals and teams involved in processing applications under the schemes. Akais received an individual award for his role in the ACF programme.
Pearl Bank has previously received recognition under the ACF and Small Business Recovery Fund, including awards for performance under the schemes, as well as recognition at the Annual Bankers Awards in agriculture and agro-processing.
The programmes are part of efforts to expand financing to agriculture and small businesses, sectors seen as key to growth and employment.
