dfcu Bank has launched the dfcu Foundation, a new initiative aimed at expanding financial empowerment, business development, and agricultural support across Uganda. The foundation replaces the Agribusiness Development Centre (ADC) under the theme “A New Name, A Renewed Commitment.”The launch, held in Mbarara District, marks a new chapter in dfcu Bank’s efforts to support farmers, agribusiness owners, and small businesses by improving access to finance, markets, skills development, and business mentorship.dfcu officials said the transition from ADC to dfcu Foundation is part of the bank’s broader vision of transforming lives and businesses in Uganda through a more inclusive approach that supports not only agriculture but also enterprise growth, financial literacy, and sustainable development.
Speaking at the launch, dfcu Bank Executive Director Kate K. Kiiza said the foundation will provide farmers and rural entrepreneurs with the knowledge, resources, and financial tools needed to succeed, adding that strengthening agriculture will contribute to economic growth and improved livelihoods.She explained that while agribusiness remains central to the foundation’s work, the expanded mandate will include enterprise development, financial education, environmental sustainability, and initiatives designed to create long-term economic opportunities for communities.dfcu Foundation Executive Director Mabel Ndawula said the initiative is aimed at doubling the impact created under ADC, which had reached 59,000 beneficiaries.
Over the next five years, the foundation plans to support an additional 100,000 people, with 60% expected to be women and 40% youth.Ndawula noted that agriculture remains a key driver of Uganda’s economy, employing more than 70% of the population and contributing significantly to national development. However, she said challenges such as limited access to credit, market barriers, and inadequate business skills continue to affect farmers’ productivity.
Through the dfcu Foundation, farmers and agribusinesses will receive support through financing opportunities, market connections, training, capacity building, and technology-based solutions. By the end of 2024, ADC had supported 1,281 enterprises through financing and capacity-building programs, helped 490 businesses access acceleration programs, achieved 52% women participation, facilitated $22 million in business linkages, and connected more than 5,000 enterprises to financial services.
