Patrick Mweheire, Standard Bank Group’s Regional Chief Executive for East Africa said the bank is delighted to welcome Mumba to the Standard Bank Group—in particular, to the Stanbic Bank Uganda team. “His extensive experience in the banking sector and understanding of this market, coupled with his leadership expertise, makes him ideal to lead our business in Uganda,” he said. “The Board is confident that his strategic thinking, business acumen, and passion for excellence will continue to drive growth, innovation, and customer satisfaction.”

Mumba brings to the team nearly 30 years of post-qualification experience, 20 of which have been in the banking sector, mostly in senior leadership roles covering business development, risk management, strategy formulation, and finance strategy in three African markets including Botswana, Zambia, and for the last five years—Uganda.

“I am pleased with the opportunity to embark on this new challenge,” said Mumba. “Together with the other leaders across the organization, I am looking forward to building on the bank’s solid foundation and contributing to the purpose of driving Uganda’s growth, creating even more shared value for all stakeholders.”

Damoni Kitabire, Board Chairman, Stanbic Bank Uganda said the bank has enjoyed a strong growth journey in recent years and they are confident that under Mumba’s leadership, the bank will continue to experience even more success as they execute their commitment to drive Uganda’s growth.

Mumba holds a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) from Herriot Watt University (Scotland) and is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (United Kingdom) and the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA, UK).

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“At Double Q, we understand that our customers’ needs are unique and diverse. That’s why we have curated these three models to cater to different industries and applications —from construction to logistics, agriculture to mining, we have a Sinotruk model that is tailored to meet your specific needs,” Richard Musani; Head of Marketing at Double Q told the press during the launch that was held at Double Q head offices in Busega.

Tang Wenjum, Country Manager of Sino Truck International Group in Uganda, highlighted the growing demand for construction and logistics equipment. Uganda’s ambitious construction projects have created a robust need for reliable, high-performance vehicles to support the transportation of materials and equipment. Sino Truck’s new offerings aim to bridge this gap and position itself as a key enabler in the construction and logistics sectors for the country’s evolving infrastructure needs.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Gen. Katumba Wamala, Kajuna, the Director of Transport in the Ministry of Works and Transport, highlighted this development’s significance for Uganda’s economy and infrastructure. “This occasion reflects the progress the government is making, including partnerships that support the development of Uganda’s transport and construction sectors, which are key drivers of our national agenda,” he said. “The introduction of new models of Sino trucks in Uganda is poised to transform the transport and logistics landscape, creating jobs, boosting local capacity, and contributing to the national economy.”

The new Sino truck models; Howo Max Tractor, Howo NX Cargo, and Howo M7 Light Cargo have been designed with Uganda’s unique terrain and requirements in mind —and they feature reduced emissions and advanced safety features, which align with the country’s national sustainability goals.

Kajuna urged Double Q to place a strong emphasis on vehicle safety and driver training. The emphasis on sustainability and safety aligns with Uganda’s broader goals of modernizing its infrastructure and ensuring the welfare of its citizens. “Vehicle safety is of paramount importance to the government,” he told the press on the sidelines of the launch event, encouraging the company to integrate advanced safety features and provide training clinics for drivers and operators. These efforts, he said, would not only enhance road safety but also help reduce costs for vehicle operators.

The training clinic programs aim to equip drivers and operators with the skills needed to navigate advanced Sino trucks, integrate new technologies, and ensure optimal vehicle use. By fostering education and innovation, Double Q contributes to a safer, more efficient transportation ecosystem in Uganda, heralding a promising future for the sector.

The new Sino trucks, unlike secondhand alternatives, represent a step toward modernization and sustainability. With this venture, Double Q is set to enhance accessibility to quality goods and services while promoting the use of advanced technology in Uganda’s transport sector. The Ministry has encouraged Ugandans to support this initiative by purchasing these products.

• The Howo Max Tractor Truck is a New Generation all-rounder offering Maximum reliability, Efficiency, Safety, and Comfort. It has been designed for heavy-duty applications and boasts a golden powertrain with a powerful MC engine equipped with 430 horsepower, an advanced transmission system, and enhanced safety features. This truck is perfect for long-haul transportation, construction, and mining industries.
• The Howo NX Cargo Truck with Germany Technology is a first choice for cross-border goods transportation is built for versatility and reliability, offering a range of engine options, improved fuel efficiency, and increased payload capacity. This truck features cutting-edge technology from Germany, ensuring unparalleled performance and efficiency.
• The Howo M7 Light Cargo Truck is engineered for comfort and performance, featuring a modern design, advanced safety features, and improved fuel efficiency. This truck is ideal for urban transportation, logistics, and small-scale businesses.

Meanwhile, the event also marked a significant milestone, showcasing Uganda’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts investors and supports economic growth. According to Kajuna, the government has active policies and infrastructure to encourage investments aligning with the country’s broader development objectives. By celebrating such advancements, Uganda underscores its readiness to embrace modern solutions that drive progress.

A key highlight of Double Q’s initiative is the establishment of an assembly plant in Masaka. This development aligns with the government’s emphasis on standard compliance and directly contributes to local job creation and economic empowerment.

Concluding the ceremony, Kajuna reflected on the broader implications of the launch. “The launch of new Sino trucks in Uganda is not just a celebration—it is a celebration of Uganda’s potential for growth and development. Let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for all Ugandans,” he said.

Double Q is the leading and authorized distributor of Sino trucks and XCMG road equipment, as well as spare parts and accessories for heavy machines and trucks in Uganda.

See also: Eng. Dr. Timothy Tibesigwa launches GWM showroom and flagship Tank 500 SUV in Uganda

The post Double Q Launches New Models of Sino Trucks in the Ugandan Market appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

In 2020, 60% of Africa’s population was under 25 and its tech-savvy youth population is set to double by 2030, making up 42% of the world’s youth. This represents a significant opportunity to expand Africa’s tech talent pool, create broad-based jobs within the AI industry, and drive economic growth.

Africa’s AI ecosystem is home to more than 127 hubs with South Africa hosting the largest concentration (22%), followed by Nigeria (12%), Egypt (12%), and Kenya (10%) all of which play instrumental roles in overcoming barriers and accelerating economic and talent development.

The report highlights six components of a cluster driving AI innovations in Africa: grassroots AI communities, academia, human capital, policymakers, Big Tech, and investors. Among them, grassroots AI communities comprising data scientists and AI professionals have emerged as a strong nucleus for Africa’s AI landscape. Groups like Data Science Africa, Deep Learning Indaba, and Data Science Nigeria are shaping the future by building skills, showcasing African AI research globally, attracting investments, and creating jobs. The communities bring people and ideas together, connecting local talent with global opportunities, from international events to everyday WhatsApp chats, sparking growth and innovation across the continent.

Using qualitative and quantitative methods to uncover key insights, it is assessed that while the grassroots initiatives remain critical in bridging the continent’s AI skills gap, offering upskilling opportunities and job placements, limited resources constrain their potential. This highlights a collective drive by all components of innovation clusters is essential to advance a thriving ecosystem.

To achieve this, the report offers the following recommendations:

• Academia should expand AI programs, train more professors, and align university curricula with industry needs.
• Policymakers and African governments should develop comprehensive national AI strategies that balance innovation with ethical safeguards.
• The government should also prioritize infrastructure development such as reliable electricity, affordable internet, and better data access to support AI growth.
• Big Tech should foster fair partnerships that empower local ecosystems, prioritize knowledge transfer, and protect data sovereignty.
• Investors should diversify funding beyond health and agriculture to unlock AI’s potential in other critical sectors including education and financial inclusion.
• Donors should invest heavily in human capital development initiatives, particularly those focused on youth employment. They fund training programs, scholarships, and fellowships that aim to build a pipeline of skilled AI professionals.

Commenting on the report, Abbie Phatty-Jobe, Research and Engagement Manager at Caribou Digital, said AI harnessed collaboratively has the power to positively shape the African employment landscape and boost the economy.

“In collaboration with our research partners, we have explored emerging clusters within the distinct context of Africa to address critical challenges and accelerate development; their success depends on a collective strategic approach that tackles inclusivity and targeted investment in local talent and infrastructure,” Phatty-Jobe explained in a press statement. “By empowering grassroots communities, strengthening academia-industry ties, and fostering equitable partnerships, we can build an AI ecosystem that truly reflects Africa’s unique strengths and aspirations.”

Speaking about the key role of grassroots communities in driving innovations, Wadzi Comfort a researcher and digital economy expert, noted that the emergent AI innovation clusters across Africa showcase remarkable ingenuity and potential in the face of scarce resources.

“Tech-savvy, motivated young people; —our greatest asset emerging from Africa’s youth population boom; are spearheading local AI-powered solutions to address local challenges, demonstrating exceptional agency and creativity,” said Wadzi. “These innovations span a wide spectrum, including AI-powered diagnostic tools, Informal educational academies, Large Language Models (LLMs) in local languages, community-driven knowledge-sharing platforms, and collaborative tech convenings.”

Wadzi further says youth-driven initiatives and their innovators merit substantial support and resources to accompany their agency and foster their growth and impact.

Private investors, African governments, and donors not only provide crucial financial resources but also shape the direction of innovation by prioritizing specific areas of investment. Venture capital for DeepTech startups has soared from USD$86 million (approx. UGX315.33 billion) in 2015 to USD$1.2 billion in 2023, with over 300 investors—65% based in Africa—and 127 innovation hubs driving growth.

Key government initiatives, like Nigeria’s AI Research Scheme and South Africa’s AI Institute, alongside philanthropic support from the Mastercard Foundation and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, will keep creating an environment that addresses local challenges, drives innovation, and positions Africa at the forefront of AI technology.

The report employs the snowball research method to conduct in-depth interviews with 25 African AI experts, including policymakers, educators, and industry leaders, uncovering the state, challenges, and opportunities for AI innovation clusters. It also highlights insights from 18 young tech professionals involved in AI or tech fields from Zindi, Africa’s largest data science community, on their skills, job prospects, challenges, and AI’s impact on employment. Additionally, the report includes a comprehensive review of academic studies, policy documents, and reports on AI, innovation clusters, and youth employment across Africa.

Editor’s Note: To download the full report (HERE).

The post Report: AI Insights For Addressing Youth Unemployment and Empowering Africa’s Workforce appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Here are five essential tips to help you make a more well-informed decision when purchasing a used vehicle in Dubai.

1. Identify your budget and financial limit: Dubai boasts a wide range of vehicles for all budgets and that is exactly why specifying your budget is necessary. It won’t be very smart if you end up in a financial crisis after purchasing a vehicle. Moreover, while defining your budget, you should also consider other things like insurance, registration fees, and maintenance as they all add up as the long-term cost of ownership.
2. Research reliable car models: The UAE has extremely harsh temperatures especially during the day and not all vehicles can withstand the heat. Before buying a car in the UAE, it is important to research reliable car models that are already tested and trusted for their durability. Besides there are Used BMW Dubai cars that are known to have a higher resale value than others such as Toyota, Nissan, and Honda. You should also consider how easy it is to maintain the vehicle here and go with models with easily available spare parts.
3. Inspect it thoroughly: Whether you are buying the car from a marketplace or private dealership, making the payment before inspection is simply out of the question. Check the outside and look for dents, scratches, and signs of repainting which may show that there has been a major accident by the previous owner. Also, check the interior for any tears in the seats and stains. Observe the general condition of the dashboard, as well as the infotainment features. You may hire a professional mechanic to help you during the inspection to uncover hidden problems that might be oblivious to you.
4. Verify the vehicle’s history: The reason for checking the vehicle’s history is to look out for potential red flags such as major accidents, outstanding loans, or odometer tampering. To verify the vehicle’s background. You can either request this from the seller or check the service records and review maintenance logs. Lastly, don’t forget to confirm the ownership details and make sure that the seller has a valid ownership certificate and hence is free from any outstanding payment.
5. Negotiate smartly: Price negotiation is also a standard part involved in the buying process so don’t allow yourself to be intimidated when trying to negotiate. Make sure you understand the current market value and start your negotiation around that price. Also, keep in mind if there are any minor issues with the vehicle, you can use that as an advantage to bring down the price even further.

Therefore, buying a car involves careful planning and thorough considerations otherwise you could end up running at a loss. If you are planning to use the vehicle in the UAE, go for cars with high resale value because there is a good chance that you will eventually sell off the vehicle either for an upgrade or when leaving the city. Follow these five tips explained above to enjoy all the benefits of a used car and avoid potential pitfalls

The post 5 Tips For Buying A Used Car In The UAE appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Beta Technologies is a Vermont-based organization gaining practical experience in electric flying. The organization centers around making advanced eVTOL airplanes for traveler and freight transportation. Beta expects to address the natural difficulties presented by ordinary flight while satisfying the developing need for proficient and eco-accommodating transportation arrangements by utilizing state-of-the-art innovation and feasible energy rehearsals.

Center developments

1. eVTOL Airplane

Beta Technologies’ lead item is the Alia-250, an eVTOL airplane intended for various applications, including freight conveyance, clinical vehicles, and traveler travel.

Key features:

• Electric Impetus: Controlled completely by power, the Alia-250 offers a calmer, more energy-proficient option in contrast to conventional airplanes.
• Vertical Departure and Handling: Its eVTOL ability kills the requirement for long runways, making it appropriate for metropolitan and distant regions.
• Manageability: With no emanations during activity, the carbon impression of avionics is fundamentally decreased.

2. Charging infrastructure

Beta Innovations isn’t simply making airplanes; it is likewise constructing the foundation to help them. The organization has fostered an organization of quick charging stations to empower consistent activity of its eVTOL airplane by Immediate X2 ProAir. These charging center points are decisively positioned to improve reach and proficiency.

3. Battery technology

The organization is at the forefront of growing high-limit batteries that can drive electric airplanes effectively. These batteries guarantee long-range flights and speedy re-energizing abilities, making them ideal for business use.

Applications of Beta Technologies’ Innovations

• Freight Conveyance: The eVTOL airplane is great for time-touchy freight conveyances, particularly in regions with restricted street access.
• Clinical Transportation: With its speed and openness, the Alia-250 can ship organs, clinical supplies, and patients in crises.
• Traveler Travel: The future emphasis of Beta’s airplane intends to reform metropolitan portability by offering quick, eco-accommodation options in contrast to conventional drives.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Beta Innovations is a forerunner in the push for a more manageable flight industry. By lessening dependence on non-renewable energy sources and cutting discharges, the organization tends to the squeezing need for environment-cognizant transportation. Its creative airplane and framework intend to lessen commotion contamination and ecological corruption, making urban communities more reasonable.

As for its future prospects, Beta Innovations has earned huge consideration and speculation from worldwide flight and innovation pioneers. The organization’s obligation to develop and maintainability positions it as a vital participant in store for transportation. As administrative systems for the eVTOL airplane develop, Beta is ready to lead the charge in reclassifying flight.

Beta Advancements isn’t simply a flight organization; it is an image of development and supportability. With its spearheading eVTOL airplane, powerful charging framework, and devotion to decreasing outflows, the organization is setting new guidelines for the fate of transportation. As the world hugs electric versatility, Beta Innovations remains at the front of this change, preparing for a cleaner, greener planet.

The post Beta Technologies: Revolutionizing the Future of Aviation appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

“We’re excited to bring Audi drivers the incredible convenience of Samsung Digital Key, powered by advanced UWB technology and easily accessible through Samsung Wallet,” said Woncheol Chai, EVP and Head of the Digital Wallet Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics.

With the key users can lock and unlock their vehicles, open the trunk using Remote Keyless Entry (RKE), and then start their vehicles without a physical key. They can also share the Digital Key over the air or with an interface that lets them grant or disable access as needed, the release detailed.

If users lose their device that contains the Digital Key, they can use the Samsung Find service to remotely lock or delete the key, further safeguarding their vehicles.

With biometric or PIN-based user authentication requirements, Samsung Wallet protects the vehicle, ensuring privacy and security with every interaction.

“This collaboration with Audi is helping to advance our vision of effortless, tech-enabled experiences within the Galaxy ecosystem,” Chai said.

Digital Keys are securely embedded within the device, meeting rigorous EAL6+4 security standards to protect against unauthorized access. Using ultra-wideband (UWB) technologies, a standardized communication protocol set by the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC), the key ensures precise functionality and significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized vehicle access.

Samsung Wallet is a versatile platform that allows Galaxy users to organize Digital Keys, payment methods, identification cards, and more in one secure application.

Launched in June 2022, Samsung Wallet features a seamless interface protected by defense-grade security from Samsung Knox. It integrates with the Galaxy ecosystem, providing powerful connectivity and fortified security for users in their everyday lives.

Availability and Accessibility 

1. Audi vehicles supporting the Digital Key include: the Audi A6 e-tron series, Q6 e-tron series, and Audi A5 series—with more to be included.

2. Samsung Wallet Digital Key support is available on select devices, including Galaxy S20 Ultra/S20+/S20, S21 Ultra/S21+/S21/S21 FE, S22 Ultra/S22+/S22, S23 Ultra/S23+/S23/S23 FE, S24 Ultra/S24+/S24/S24 FE, Note20 Ultra/Note20, Z Fold2, Z Fold3, Z Fold4, Z Fold5, Z Fold6, Z Flip 5G, Z Flip3, Z Flip4, Z Flip5, Z Flip6.

3. Eligible Galaxy smartphones operating on Android 13 and above, qualify to run this digital key.

The post Galaxy Smartphones to Replace Physical Keys for Audi Owners appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

The agreement was executed in September 2024, with the first tranche of UGX5 billion disbursed. MOGO Loan will continue to release funds phased by phase as needed for on-lending purposes, with full utilization expected by the end of 2024. This phased approach ensures the customer can align loan disbursements with their operational needs, reinforcing flexibility and support throughout the deal lifecycle.

The structured loan will be repaid over a maximum period of 30 months, empowering hundreds of riders to own environmentally friendly electric bikes that are cheaper to maintain and operate.

Speaking at the signing of the memorandum of understanding, the Executive Director and Head of Markets for Absa Bank Uganda, David Wandera, said the deal underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy and enabling even greater financial inclusion.

“This partnership goes beyond a typical loan transaction. We are aware that a significant share of economic activity is within the informal sector, however, access to financial services remains the main obstacle to the growth of informal businesses and could be a possible incentive for them to formalize,” said Wandera. “We are pleased to enter this unique arrangement with MOGO Loans, which will drive greater financial inclusion, delivering credit to the last mile, while also contributing to a green economy.”

MOGO Uganda CEO Mikhail Vydryn said, “MOGO Uganda has demonstrated significant investment in the country, with a net loan portfolio totaling EUROs 28 million (approx. UGX110.35 billion) funded primarily through equity, shareholder loans, and offshore debt.” He added, “Absa’s involvement through local currency funding mitigates MOGO Uganda’s FX risk, creating a perfect alignment between Absa’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) values and MOGO’s efforts to tackle unemployment in Uganda’s informal sector.”

Mikhail revealed that since their launch in May, they have successfully financed nearly 870 e-boda units, enabling their clients to travel over 2.5 million kilometers using clean electricity. “This initiative has not only resulted in a significant reduction of approximately 70 tonnes of CO₂ emissions but has also created substantial economic benefits for the riders,” he added.

The electric bikes funded through this loan offer a groundbreaking solution to Uganda’s ‘boda boda’ industry. With no emissions, they are environmentally friendly, aligning with global trends toward greener transportation. The bikes also present significant cost savings for riders: for just UGX8,000, riders can charge their bikes for 80 kilometres, far more efficient than fossil fuel bikes, which cost UGX10,000 for 70 kilometres.

The lower operational and maintenance costs make this an innovative and economically viable alternative.

Speaking about the facility, the bank pointed out that this was a landmark agreement, requiring navigation of complex negotiations and multi-jurisdictional legal frameworks to protect all parties involved.

“Despite the lack of tangible security, Absa Bank Uganda confidently entered this partnership based on the strength of MOGO Loan’s corporate guarantees and the potential of the project,” said Wandera. “At Absa Bank, we believe that our clients’ stories are central to everything we do. Every transaction we engage in is a testament to our commitment to empower, uplift, and transform the communities we serve.”

He concludes by saying “This partnership with MOGO Loan reflects our ongoing investment in solutions that address local challenges while promoting sustainable growth.”

With this financing, MOGO Uganda projects that they will be able to reach 1,000 electric motorbikes issued through the hire purchase arrangement by the end of November 2024, easing the financial burden on many informal operators who are often expected to pay upfront for these assets with large sums of money they may not have.

The post Absa Uganda Seals a UGX19Bn Loan Facility With Mogo Uganda appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

GWM produces and sells vehicles under several brands, including GWM, Haval, Wey, Tank, Poer, and Ora. The company’s Sales Manager, Steven Dumba confirmed to the press that the vehicles in those brands are available to purchase. They showcased the Tank 500, Tank 300, P-series, and Haval Jolion.

The event was held at the GWM showroom along Old Portbell Road marking an important step in expanding the accessibility of advanced-technological vehicle models in Uganda and supporting national infrastructure development goals.

Eng. Dr. Tibesigwa, while addressing the press, highlighted the role of GWM in providing brand-new vehicles and advocated for organizations and individuals to consider the benefits of purchasing brand-new vehicles, such as those being offered by GWM. “With all the features we have seen on these GWM cars, they position themselves to compete favorably,” he stated, pointing out the benefits of safety, cost efficiency, and innovative technology that GWM’s new fleet offers. “I’ve seen these vehicles have enhanced safety features and emissions technology, aligning with the government’s vision for a cleaner environment and modernizing its fleet.”

Government institutions and private enterprises are inclined to purchase new cars due to their durability, enhanced safety features, and environmentally friendly advancements, according to Eng. Dr. Tibesigwa. “The choice between new and used cars remains a significant decision for many Ugandans, but the benefits of new models extend beyond initial cost savings,” he explained.

He said buyers who go for used cars miss out on a brand-new car that is almost close to that same price. “The price gap between new and used vehicles is narrowing,” he stated, urging Ugandans to consider long-term investments in quality vehicles. He also appealed to the media to raise public awareness of the safety and environmental advantages of modern cars.

Mr. Steven Dumba, GWM’s Sales Manager said Ugandans are buying used cars over brand-new ones because of affordability and financing. According to Dumba, of the 40,000 cars bought annually by Ugandans, only 3,000 are brand-new ones. He advised buyers to opt for vehicle and asset financing schemes offered by banks to afford brand-new cars.

“Affordable pricing and financing schemes are key to maximizing accessibility,” Eng. Dr. Tibesigwa expounded on Dumba’s remarks — requesting Double Q to work with financial institutions to facilitate purchases. He said by reducing the financial strain of acquiring new vehicles, Double Q can help broaden the reach of modern automotive technology across diverse sectors.

Addressing the importance of after-sales service, Eng. Dr. Tibesigwa called Double Q, to ensure buyers have access to genuine spare parts and high-quality service, which are essential for safety and vehicle longevity. He stressed, “The availability of genuine parts is critical for performance and safety.”

Specification of the Tank 500;

The Tank 500 SUV is a successor to the Tank 300. Priced at USD$72,000 (approx. UGX265 million) the SUV is powered by a direct-inejection 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol-electric engine, with a combined power output of 255kW and 648Nm of torque. It has enough performance to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.3 seconds.

It comes with a knight black exterior and the interior comes with a combination of knight black, princess white, crown gold, and majesty silver colors. In the interior, it has a heated eco-leather steering wheel, 8-way electric adjustable driver’s seat with memory assist and welcome seat function, 6-way electric adjustable passenger seat, heated seats, 12.3-inch instrument cluster, central console retro classic clock, 220V charging ports, active noise cancellation, cabin air cleaning system, air-conditioning fragrance.

The SUV has an automatic retractable side step that pulls out when you open the door and pushes in when you close the door.

The Tank 500 comes with intelligent driving assistance, a smart start and stop, and has 11 driving mode selections i.e. standard, sport, eco, snow, mud, sand, rock, auto all-terrain, expert, 4H, and 4L.

For the safest standards, the SUV has achieved a 5-star rating by ANCAP. The car comes with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety systems designed to protect you and others on the road —these include intelligent adaptive cruise control, rear collision warning, etc.

Supporting a cleaner, greener Uganda with hybrid and electric cars

In line with Uganda’s push toward sustainable development, Eng. Dr. Tibesigwa encouraged GWM to support Uganda’s clean energy agenda. Hybrid and electric cars have great potential within Uganda’s automotive market —and some of GWM’s newly showcased cars; the Haval (hybrid), and Ora (electric) might be a breakthrough in the country’s automotive market.

With global trends pointing toward greener technology, Uganda is establishing regulatory frameworks that will guide the use of environmentally friendly (eco-friendly) vehicles. Eng. Dr. Tibesigwa assured GWM and Double Q that the government is ready to support their advancements, indicating a commitment to future dialogue and regulation aimed at encouraging more sustainable vehicle options.

The GWM launch in Uganda marks a milestone for the country’s automotive industry and reaffirms the government’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and economic growth. As the nation embraces new technologies and regulatory frameworks, events like the GWM launch are a future where Uganda’s automotive sector can thrive, catering to private and public needs while supporting the nation’s larger developmental goals.

The post Eng. Dr. Timothy Tibesigwa Launches GWM Showroom and Flagship Tank 500 SUV in Uganda appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

“We have heard your call,” said Kituuka, during his departure at Entebbe International Airport on Thursday. “Equity is not just about banking, it is about understanding and supporting our customers wherever they are. I am joining the team that has already been on the ground, working closely with our customers in the UAE.”

For the past two weeks, the Equity Bank team in Dubai has been offering personalized services to Ugandan expatriates and other UAE customers. The staff has been addressing customer queries, reactivating accounts, opening accounts, and issuing ATM cards. The team also links customers to mobile and online banking as they open their accounts.

Laura Bahemuka, Equity Bank’s Head of Micro Segment currently stationed in Dubai said, “The feedback has been incredibly positive. Our customers have expressed appreciation for getting one-on-one support and resolving long-standing issues.”

Kituuka will hold a keynote address at the Smart Minds Business Conference tomorrow (Oct. 25th), at the prestigious Dubai Royal Pillar Events Auditorium. His address, eagerly anticipated by business leaders and entrepreneurs, will focus on building successful businesses back home. He will also speak on how strategic partnerships can drive growth.

“Equity Bank exists to champion the socio-economic prosperity of the people of Africa and for this reason being a keynote speaker at such an event is not just a professional duty for me, it is a personal duty,” said Kituuka. Adding, “I am looking forward to sharing insights on how we can be a catalyst for the expansion of wealth.”

Kituuka will also speak at the 3rd annual Uganda-UAE business forum on October 31st, engaging with the public and private investors, and Ugandans doing business in Dubai. Beyond the conference, Kituuka will host informal sessions with Ugandans, particularly Equity Bank’s customers living in Dubai, offering them an opportunity to interact with him directly.

The Dubai engagement comes a day after Equity Bank hosted the India-Uganda trade mission, which attracted investors from India. The two-day mission saw Ugandan businesses hold discussions with counterparts from India and has resulted in substantial undertakings.

Equity teams continued effort is an example of how financial institutions can serve customers across borders, ensuring that no one feels far from home.

The post Equity Bank MD, Anthony Kituuka Travels to Dubai to Engage and Serve Customers appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Being at the helm of regulating the operation of microfinance institutions, UMRA’s collaboration with Wendi is a key milestone in enhancing financial inclusion through streamlining the operation of Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs), Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), Self-Help Groups, and Non-Deposit Taking Microfinance Institutions (NDT-MFIs)—into the digital age, thus championing sustainable financial inclusion especially in the hard to reach places where there are no physical banking facilities.

Andrew Kabeera PostBank’s Executive Director, stated that their partnership with UMRA is timely as it will help the bank boost financial literacy skills and ensure savings groups have access to essential financial services, regardless of their banking affiliation.

“The bank is dedicated to fostering prosperity for Ugandans through innovative and tailored financial products,” he told the press during the launch at UMRA Offices. “With Wendi, we are delighted to empower individuals and groups, especially those underserved by traditional financial institutions, to access secure savings accounts, earn 10% annual interest on daily savings, and conduct various financial transactions.”

Kabeera added that “Wendi was designed to offer seamless financial services to underserved and last-mile customers, hence PostBank or non – PostBank customers can access, manage, and transact funds efficiently both on a smartphone and a feature phone.”

Executive Director of UMRA, Ms. Edith Tusuubira emphasized the transformative impact this partnership will have on Uganda’s financial landscape.

“Leveraging Wendi to digitize savings groups across the country is a great initiative and we thank PostBank for taking this innovative approach because it aligns with Uganda’s National Financial Inclusion Strategy of bridging the gap of access to financial services for millions of Ugandans,” said Tusuubira. “By embracing digital technology, we will enhance financial literacy, security, and convenience for our people while fostering economic empowerment,”

Tusuubira pointed out that UMRA commits to continuously support sector players like PostBank who have introduced services like the Wendi which addresses key challenges faced by informal savings mechanisms since the Authority is trying to streamline operations as the regulator.”

A recent study by FinScope revealed a sharp increase in the adoption of SACCOs and mobile money services in Uganda since 2018. SACCO usage rose from 5% in 2018 to 15% in 2023, while Mobile Money usage jumped from 23% to 42% over the same period. Despite this growth, many Ugandans still store money at home, signaling a lack of confidence in both formal and informal financial service providers.

Furthermore, only 2 in 10 Ugandans save electronically, emphasizing the urgent need for digital solutions like Wendi to bridge the gap in financial inclusion. Wendi promises to offer secure and convenient financial services to help address these challenges.

See also: PostBank, MTN Mobile Money (U) Limited launch a digital microlending solution

The post UMRA, PostBank to Digitize Tier IV Microfinance Institutions with Wendi Platform appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.