Absa Bank Uganda has launched a three-month campaign offering prizes worth Shs66 million to encourage small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to use business debit cards for payments and improve how they manage business transactions.
The campaign, which runs from October 15, 2026, to January 15, 2027, is designed to encourage more businesses to adopt card payments as part of efforts to expand digital financial services and reduce reliance on cash.
Moses Rutahigwa, Personal, Private and Business Banking Director at Absa Bank Uganda, said the initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to helping businesses adopt convenient payment solutions while improving their day-to-day financial management.
Business debit cards allow enterprises to make payments for goods and services without relying entirely on cash. They can also help business owners track expenditure, manage working capital and maintain clearer records of transactions.
For SMEs, which often operate with limited administrative resources, improved transaction visibility can support budgeting, financial planning and accountability.
The campaign comes as businesses increasingly explore digital payment options to improve efficiency and respond to changing customer and supplier expectations.
Cash remains an important means of payment for many Ugandan businesses, but digital alternatives can reduce the risks associated with carrying large amounts of money and make it easier to monitor spending.
Absa’s initiative seeks to encourage businesses to integrate card payments into routine operations, including purchases and other eligible business expenses.
The Shs66 million prize pool is intended to incentivise participation during the three-month campaign. The initiative also provides an opportunity for the bank to strengthen engagement with SMEs, a segment that plays an important role in Uganda’s economic activity and employment.
However, the wider adoption of digital payments among small businesses depends on factors such as access to appropriate financial products, transaction costs, awareness and confidence in digital financial services.
Banks have increasingly sought to develop solutions that respond to the needs of businesses at different stages of growth, including payment tools that help entrepreneurs separate business expenses from personal spending.
For SMEs, using dedicated business banking products can also improve financial record-keeping, potentially making it easier to assess cash flows and demonstrate business activity when seeking financing.
Absa Bank Uganda’s campaign adds to efforts by financial institutions to promote digital transactions and encourage businesses to use formal banking services more consistently.
The campaign will run until January 15, 2027, with prizes valued at a total of Shs66 million available to participating businesses under the promotion.
