Centenary Bank to Expand Digital Banking, Open More Branches
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Centenary Bank plans to expand its digital banking services while simultaneously opening new physical branches across Uganda.
- Managing Director Godfrey Byekwaso stated the bank aims to meet growing demand for convenient financial services without abandoning traditional in-person banking.
- The bank will also strengthen its agency banking network to reach more customers, including those without accounts.
Centenary Bank will pursue a dual strategy of expanding digital banking services while continuing to open new branches throughout Uganda, according to Managing Director Godfrey Byekwaso. This approach aims to meet the increasing demand for convenient financial services without alienating customers who prefer face-to-face interactions.
We know that our customers want convenience. They want a bank where they are, not a bank where they go.
Byekwaso emphasized that digital banking remains a strategic priority as customer expectations evolve. "We know that our customers want convenience. They want a bank where they are, not a bank where they go," he said. The bank is investing in digital platforms to provide 24/7 access, ensuring customers can conduct transactions even when branches are closed. "When you need convenience over the weekend or at night, we have the technology to ensure that we support you," he added.
When you need convenience over the weekend or at night, we have the technology to ensure that we support you.
Despite the digital push, Byekwaso affirmed that physical branches are central to the bank's growth. "We have not left those who still want to come and see us because we know that behind the technology there are people," he stated. The bank recently opened a branch in Kalongo and plans another in Katakwi, extending its reach into underserved areas. Centenary Bank is also enhancing its agency banking network to bring financial services closer to more people, including those who do not yet have bank accounts.
We have not left those who still want to come and see us because we know that behind the technology there are people.
Byekwaso reassured stakeholders that the bank's strategic direction remains consistent following a recent leadership transition. "My priority is not to change what has made Centenary Bank what it is today," he said. "My priority is to preserve the values that have earned the confidence of our customers while preparing the bank to thrive in the future." He described Centenary Bank as Uganda's largest indigenous commercial bank, serving over three million customers nationwide.
My priority is not to change what has made Centenary Bank what it is today. My priority is to preserve the values that have earned the confidence of our customers while preparing the bank to thrive in the future.
Originally published by AllAfrica Uganda. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.