Kampala City, Uganda: Equity Bank Uganda has appointed Henry Rugamba as the new Chairperson of its Board of Directors, effective June 15, 2026, succeeding Mark Ocitti, who has retired after serving on the board for nine years.
The leadership transition marks a new chapter for one of Uganda’s leading commercial banks as it seeks to deepen financial inclusion, expand support for businesses and strengthen its role in Uganda’s economic transformation.
In a statement announcing the appointment, Equity Bank Uganda described Rugamba as a seasoned leader with more than three decades of experience in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, corporate affairs and governance across both the public and private sectors.
“Mr. Rugamba brings over three decades of distinguished leadership in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, corporate affairs and governance. His extensive experience across the public and private sectors, coupled with his commitment to excellence and sustainable impact, will be instrumental as Equity Bank Uganda continues to deepen financial inclusion, support enterprise growth and create shared prosperity for communities across Uganda,” the bank said.
The veteran communications and corporate affairs strategist is a graduate of Politics and International Law from Makerere University and currently serves as Chairman of BAT Uganda and Harris International Uganda. Over the years, Rugamba has built a reputation as one of Uganda’s leading communications and corporate affairs professionals, serving on various boards and supporting community initiatives, including HIV/AIDS care programmes in the Karamoja sub-region.
Equity Group Holdings Chairman Prof. Isaac Macharia welcomed the appointment, saying Rugamba’s experience will strengthen the bank’s strategic direction as it navigates a rapidly evolving financial services landscape.
“We are delighted with the appointment of Mr. Henry Rugamba as the Chairperson of the Board of Equity Bank Uganda. His diverse background in Public Relations, Communications, stakeholder engagement and strategic advisory services brings a wealth of experience that will support the Bank’s strategic direction,” Macharia said.
The bank also paid tribute to outgoing Board Chairperson Mark Ocitti for his contribution to Equity Uganda’s growth and institutional development during his tenure.
“During his tenure, the company recorded significant milestones including consolidated market position, institutional capacity growth and sustainable growth as evidenced by its strong performance thereby delivering sustainable long-term value creation for its shareholders,” the bank said.
Macharia added: “We extend our deep gratitude to Mr. Mark Ocitti for his distinguished service, dedication, professionalism and invaluable contribution to the Board over the past nine years.”
Ocitti’s tenure coincided with a period of significant growth for Equity Bank Uganda, including expansion in digital banking, SME financing, agricultural lending and financial inclusion programmes aimed at underserved communities.
The leadership change comes at a time when the banking sector is increasingly focused on digital transformation, enterprise financing and expanding access to financial services for individuals and businesses across Uganda.
According to the bank, Rugamba’s appointment reflects Equity’s long-term commitment to sustainable growth and economic empowerment.
“The transition reaffirms our commitment to fostering inclusive growth and leveraging Uganda’s economic potential within the regional and continental landscape,” the bank said.
Industry observers say Rugamba’s extensive experience in corporate leadership, governance and stakeholder engagement positions him well to guide the bank through its next phase of growth while strengthening its contribution to Uganda’s financial sector and broader economy.
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