dfcu commits sh30m to Kitovu Centre for skills and enterprise development
The project comes amid continued efforts by institutions and communities to strengthen access to skills and enterprise opportunities, particularly through initiatives that can help individuals develop livelihoods and businesses.
dfcu Bank executives, representatives from the Diocese of Masaka, and Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, Katikkiro of Buganda Kingdom, hold a dummy cheque representing the bank’s sh30 million contribution towards the Archbishop Kiwanuka. (Courtesy)
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dfcu Bank has contributed sh30 million towards the completion of the Archbishop Kiwanuka Empowerment Centre in Kitovu, a project expected to provide skills training, entrepreneurship support and mentorship to members of the community.
The contribution was announced during a fundraising dinner held at Sheraton Kampala Hotel on Monday, as the Diocese of Masaka and its partners seek to complete the centre, which is being developed in memory of the late Archbishop Joseph Kiwanuka.
Once completed, the centre is expected to serve as a platform for skills development, enterprise development, mentorship and knowledge exchange, with a focus on equipping people with practical capabilities that can translate into economic opportunities.
The project comes amid continued efforts by institutions and communities to strengthen access to skills and enterprise opportunities, particularly through initiatives that can help individuals develop livelihoods and businesses.
Margaret Karume, Dfcu Bank’s Executive Director and Chief Credit Officer, said the bank’s contribution was informed by the centre’s focus on skills and institution-building.
“Our contribution towards the Archbishop Kiwanuka Empowerment Centre reflects our belief that sustainable progress is achieved when communities have the skills, knowledge and opportunities they need to thrive,” Karume said.
According to the project organisers, the facility will provide opportunities for individuals to acquire practical skills, build networks, pursue enterprise and engage with their communities.
Beyond financial support
The sh30 million contribution is part of a wider fundraising effort involving the Diocese of Masaka and other partners to support completion of the centre.
For Dfcu, the contribution also links to its historical role in financing development initiatives. The institution was established in 1964 as the Development Finance Company of Uganda to provide long-term financing for businesses and development projects.
Over the years, dfcu has expanded its operations into commercial banking while maintaining involvement in sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, trade, infrastructure, education and healthcare.
“The most enduring institutions are those that invest in people and continue creating value across generations,” she said.
Centre targets practical opportunities
The Archbishop Kiwanuka Empowerment Centre is expected to bring together skills development, entrepreneurship, mentorship and community engagement under one platform.
The project’s emphasis on enterprise is intended to allow beneficiaries to translate skills and knowledge into economic activity.
The centre will also provide a space for knowledge exchange and networking, which could support individuals seeking to develop enterprises or expand existing opportunities.
Dfcu said it joins the Diocese of Masaka and other partners in supporting the initiative, which is intended to preserve Archbishop Kiwanuka’s legacy while creating opportunities for future generations.
The bank's contribution brings additional support to efforts to complete the facility, although the press release does not state the total amount required to finish the project or the expected completion date.