ADJUMANI — VisionFund Uganda (VFU) has opened a branch in Adjumani District to expand access to affordable loans and financial services for refugees and host communities struggling to access formal financing.
Adjumani hosts more than 230,000 refugees alongside thousands of Ugandan nationals, but many residents continue to face challenges accessing credit to expand businesses, invest in agriculture and improve household incomes.
The new branch is expected to bring financial services closer to refugees, farmers, women, youth and small-scale entrepreneurs seeking opportunities to build sustainable livelihoods.
The branch was commissioned by Adjumani Resident District Commissioner Swaib Toko, who represented the government, in the presence of district leaders, development partners, religious leaders and representatives from refugee and host communities.
Speaking on behalf of VisionFund Uganda Chief Executive Officer Mercy Sande Ainomugisha, officials said the opening of the branch demonstrates the institution’s commitment to promoting financial inclusion.
"The opening of the Adjumani Branch demonstrates our commitment to serving both refugee and host communities. We shall continue partnering with government and development stakeholders to promote financial inclusion and sustainable livelihoods," the message read.
VisionFund Uganda Board Chairperson Dr Fred Muhumuza said the initiative supports Uganda’s Vision 2040 agenda by empowering households through responsible lending and encouraging entrepreneurship.
"Financial empowerment contributes directly to Uganda's development. We are committed to supporting entrepreneurs, unlocking agricultural potential and ensuring businesses grow sustainably," he said.
World Vision Uganda National Director Jeremiah Nyaga said the organisation’s work over the past four decades has focused on improving children's welfare by strengthening families economically.
"Our work is centred on improving the lives of children by strengthening families economically. VisionFund will become an important pillar in achieving that vision," Nyaga said.
World Vision Uganda Board Chairperson Jane Kiggundu said increased financial inclusion complements the organisation’s efforts in child protection, livelihoods and community development.
Representing the Office of the Prime Minister, Polyne Abina said declining humanitarian funding has made economic self-reliance increasingly important among refugee and host communities.
"Humanitarian assistance alone is no longer sustainable. Refugees and host communities must become self-reliant through access to financial services," she said.
Representing the Chief Administrative Officer, Richard Draciri Edema said the new branch would strengthen livelihoods and improve resilience among communities in Adjumani.
Adjumani District Chairperson John Anyanzo Ambayo encouraged residents to use borrowed funds for productive investments.
"Loans should be invested productively to improve household incomes. Borrowers should prepare business plans, keep proper records and embrace a culture of saving," he said.
In his keynote address, RDC Swaib Toko described financial inclusion as an important component of the government’s socio-economic transformation agenda.
"Access to finance enables families to invest in agriculture, educate their children, establish businesses and create employment," he said.
The Adjumani branch was established with support from the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation and Proparco, which provided about Shs897 million to expand financial inclusion.
VisionFund Uganda became the first institution in Uganda to offer dedicated refugee microfinance services in 2019, targeting refugees and host communities with financial products aimed at improving livelihoods and economic independence.
