Screenshot
On a bright October 18, as the slopes of Mount Elgon catch the first light, a new symbol of economic ambition rises over Mbale city.
It is not another glass tower in Kampala, but something far more intentional — a statement of belief that Uganda’s future will be built in every region, not just its capital. This Saturday, October 18, Centenary Group will unveil Centenary Group House – Mbale, a tall new commercial complex designed to anchor the group’s regional operations and strengthen Eastern Uganda’s business ecosystem.
The launch, to be officiated by His Grace Dr. Emmanuel Obbo, Metropolitan Archbishop of Tororo, marks a major milestone in Centenary’s four- decade journey from a Catholic- founded microfinance initiative to one of the country’s largest financial and technology groups. T
he five-story building, situated at the heart of Mbale city, will serve as the regional headquarters for Centenary bank, while offering premium office space to government agencies, private enterprises and development organizations.
Behind its modern façade lies a deeper purpose, expanding access to finance, infrastructure and opportunity beyond the economic gravity of Kampala.
“Centenary Group House, Mbale, is a powerful statement of faith in regional Uganda,” said Prof John Ddumba-Ssentamu, chairman of Centenary Group.
“It demonstrates our belief that growth must not be centralized. By extending modern financial infrastructure into Mbale, we are opening doors for enterprise, employment and collaboration across sectors.”
For decades, Mbale has been a hub of trade and education, but like many regional cities, it has struggled to attract large-scale investment. Centenary Group’s decision to locate a major commercial property here, complete with digital infrastructure, smart energy systems, and sustainable design, is a signal that regional cities are ready to compete for business and innovation.
The project, company executives say, also reflects Centenary’s evolution beyond traditional banking. The Centenary Group now encompasses financial services, technology (through Centenary Technology Services), and development partnerships, aligning with Uganda’s Digital Transformation Roadmap.
The new facility will be digitally enabled, with high-speed connectivity and integrated financial services to support tenants and local entrepreneurs.
“This building brings our brand promise to life,” said Illona Ndagire, Group Corporate Affairs Manager.
“Beyond housing Centenary bank, it will offer high-quality commercial space for both public and private sector players who wish to establish operations in Eastern Uganda. It’s about convenience, connection and creating shared value.”
Centenary bank, Uganda’s largest indigenous commercial bank, has long distinguished itself by combining modern finance with a social mission, serving farmers, small traders and teachers as readily as corporate clients.
The Mbale expansion continues that legacy. In recent years, Centenary has accelerated its push into digital banking, agency networks and mobile services, enabling millions of customers in rural and peri-urban areas to transact securely without traveling long distances.
The new regional office is expected to strengthen these efforts, providing a physical and digital hub for financial inclusion initiatives in Eastern Uganda. The Centenary Group House – Mbale will officially open its doors to tenants after the inauguration. Businesses, NGOs and government departments will be able to lease modern office space equipped with reliable power, secure internet and proximity to the bank’s financial ecosystem, a key attraction for organizations seeking to decentralize operations.
For the people of Mbale, the building represents more than just infrastructure. It’s a signal of confidence in a region often overlooked by large-scale investors.
“When such a major institution builds here, it tells young people that opportunity doesn’t only live in Kampala,” said Sarah Wanyama, a local entrepreneur who operates a small tech firm in Mbale.
“It means jobs, visibility, and hope for the business community.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
From its beginnings in 1983 as a Catholic Church initiative to promote social economic development, Centenary’s growth mirrors Uganda’s own economic transformation. The group now serves more than 2.5 million customers, employs thousands, and is expanding into technology and digital finance across East Africa.
By choosing Mbale for its newest regional landmark, the company signals that Uganda’s next phase of growth will depend not just on GDP numbers, but on equitable access to finance, infrastructure, and technology.
About the Author
