Stanbic Bank Uganda has been honored once again for its leadership in environmental sustainability, clinching the coveted National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Sustainability Award for the second consecutive year. The bank topped the financial institutions category, reinforcing its position as a trailblazer in green finance and environmental stewardship within the East African region.
Held under the theme “Fostering Cleaner Production to Advance Sustainable Development in Uganda,” the award ceremony took place at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala, where sustainability champions from across sectors were recognized for advancing Uganda’s climate and environmental goals.
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Receiving the award were Stanbic’s Head of Sustainability, Cathy Adengo, and Head of Corporate Social Investment (CSI), Diana Ondoga. “Environmental sustainability is not just an add-on; it is central to our purpose, Uganda is our home, we drive her growth,” Adengo remarked, reaffirming the bank’s commitment to embedding ESG principles across operations and financing decisions.
Stanbic’s green credentials are backed by action. In 2024 alone, the bank disbursed over UGX 62 billion to green businesses, ranging from clean energy startups to sustainable agriculture ventures and low-carbon technologies. This financing aligns with Uganda’s national climate priorities while opening up scalable, impact-driven business models.
Among its standout initiatives is a robust waste management programme. In partnership with Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda, Stanbic has recycled nearly 98% of plastic waste generated through its operations—amounting to over 9,200 kilograms—demonstrating what can be achieved through cross-sector collaboration.
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Digitization is also playing a key role. Stanbic has significantly reduced paper usage by shifting client services to digital platforms. For the minimal paper it still uses, the bank has partnered with Africa Paper Limited to recycle it into stationery and other products, closing the loop on waste.
Speaking at the ceremony, NEMA Executive Director Dr. Barirega Akankwasa applauded industry leaders for embracing ESG standards, noting that environmentally responsible investments are now central to attracting capital and safeguarding development gains. He also announced the launch of NEMA’s Compliance Assistance Unit, aimed at supporting institutions and developers in navigating environmental regulations more effectively.
The annual National Environment Sustainability Awards are Uganda’s top honor for sustainable excellence, recognizing public and private sector players who are helping to redefine development through climate-aware, responsible practices.
Stanbic Bank’s continued recognition reflects a broader shift within Africa’s financial services sector, as banks increasingly move from passive support to proactive leadership in the continent’s green transition. The challenge ahead lies in scaling this momentum across more institutions and markets, ensuring that sustainability is not only a badge of honor but a baseline for business in Africa.
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