Equity Bank Uganda held its Tupange Business Ne Equity series in Arua under the theme “Financing Integrated Value Chains and SME Growth.” The event brought together small and medium business owners, community leaders and partners to discuss opportunities and challenges for enterprise development in the region.
Discussions highlighted the importance of value chain financing in supporting SMEs. Speakers noted persistent challenges such as limited value addition, informality, poor record-keeping, and weak market linkages that restrict access to finance and reduce returns for producers. Participants also pointed out that many local businesses fail to tap into opportunities presented by the region’s sizeable market, including the refugee population.
Presentations encouraged entrepreneurs to improve financial literacy, strengthen partnerships, and adopt practices that enhance value creation and competitiveness.
The event also featured a panel on sectoral growth, with agriculture, trade, and small-scale manufacturing identified as critical areas for investment.
The forum concluded with the SME Awards 2025, recognising organisations from the Greater North. Madi West-Nile Diocese received the SME Business Influencer Award, Cress Africa Foundation Limited won the SME Customer Loyalty Award, and Kuluva Hospital was honoured with the SME Ecosystem Customer Award.