The accolade recognizes the bank’s outstanding contributions to sustainable financing and environmental stewardship.
The award was presented by NEMA Executive Director, Barirega Akankwasah, who commended institutions that are pushing the boundaries of environmental compliance and championing economic initiatives that actively protect Uganda’s ecosystems.
Receiving the award on behalf of the bank, Pamela Turyatunga, Absa Uganda’s Sustainability Manager, said the recognition reinforces the bank’s commitment to embedding sustainability at the heart of its operations.
“This award validates our deliberate journey toward anchoring sustainability at the core of our business operations,” Turyatunga said. “At Absa, we believe that financial growth must never come at the expense of our planet. This milestone inspires us to expand our green lending portfolio, empower communities with climate-resilient solutions, and continue financing initiatives that support a sustainable, low-carbon future for Uganda.”
Absa Bank Uganda stood out for its investments in environmentally sustainable projects, including USD 50 million in renewable energy financing aimed at supporting smart-grid technologies that improve energy efficiency and energy-storage systems that help stabilize renewable power generation.
The bank has also extended Shs82 billion in sustainable financing, including affordable loans that enable commercial riders to acquire electric motorcycles, promoting both green mobility and income generation. In addition, the financing supports women’s economic empowerment initiatives that contribute to inclusive and sustainable growth.
Beyond financing, Absa has made significant progress in environmental conservation, planting more than 1.28 million trees since 2023—surpassing its three-year target of one million trees ahead of schedule.
The initiative is part of the bank’s broader strategy to strengthen community resilience and mitigate the effects of climate change.
The NEMA Sustainability Awards recognize individuals, organizations, and communities that demonstrate exemplary compliance with environmental regulations while advancing innovative climate adaptation and sustainability solutions.
The recognition further strengthens Absa Bank Uganda’s position as a leader in sustainable finance, underscoring the critical role financial institutions can play in driving environmental protection and climate action.