MTN Mobile Money Uganda has appointed Phrase Lubega as its new Managing Director, pending approval by the Bank of Uganda.
The appointment was announced by the Board of Directors on Wednesday, marking a significant leadership transition for the mobile financial services provider as it pursues further expansion of digital financial solutions across Uganda.
Lubega brings more than three decades of experience spanning telecommunications, information technology and financial services, having served in a range of senior leadership positions within MTN Group and its fintech operations across the continent.
Prior to his appointment, Lubega served as Interim Managing Director of MoMo Payment Service Bank in Nigeria, where he oversaw the implementation of the institution’s long-term strategy and digital banking model. According to MTN, his tenure was marked by revenue growth, operational improvements and the introduction of new financial products.
He has also held key positions within MTN Group, including Group Executive for Fintech Commercial Operations and General Manager for Commercial and Go-To-Market, where he played a central role in expanding mobile financial services across multiple African markets.
Welcoming the appointment, MTN Group Fintech Chief Executive Officer Serigne Dioum said Lubega's extensive experience would help drive the company's future ambitions.
“We are delighted to appoint Phrase Lubega as Managing Director of MTN Mobile Money (U) Limited. Phrase brings deep market expertise, strong execution capability and a proven track record of scaling mobile financial services across diverse markets. His leadership will be instrumental as we strengthen our position in Uganda and continue to expand access to inclusive, secure and innovative digital financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses,” Dioum said.
Board Chairperson Sylvia Mulinge said the appointment positions the company for sustained growth and value creation.
“On behalf of the Board, we are pleased to appoint Phrase Lubega to lead MTN Mobile Money Uganda into its next phase of growth. His deep understanding of the business, strong governance experience and proven leadership across the MTN footprint position him well to drive sustainable value for all stakeholders. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Sarah Bateta Okwi for her steady leadership during the interim period,” Mulinge said.
Speaking about his appointment, Lubega said he was committed to building on the company’s achievements and expanding access to digital financial services.
“It is an honour to lead MTN Mobile Money Uganda at such an exciting time in the evolution of digital financial services. I look forward to working with the talented team and our stakeholders to expand access to financial solutions, enhance customer experience, and continue driving the growth of Uganda’s digital economy,” he said.
A Ugandan national, Lubega previously served as General Manager for Mobile Financial Services at MTN Uganda, where he led the rollout of products such as MoKash and contributed to significant growth in mobile money revenues.
He also served as Chief Information Officer at MTN Uganda and has held board positions within MTN’s mobile money operations in Benin, Congo-Brazzaville and Guinea.
Lubega holds a Master of Business Administration from York University, an Executive MBA from Quantic School of Business and Technology, and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Makerere University.
The company also paid tribute to Sarah Bateta Okwi for guiding the business through the transition period, saying her stewardship helped maintain continuity and stability over the past several months.