Uganda Rallies Finance and Policy Leaders to Close Africa.

Africa’s battle against climate change demands urgent and innovative solutions, especially as the continent faces a yawning climate finance gap estimated in the trillions of dollars. This challenge was at the heart of discussions during the 2nd Annual Climate Finance Conference, held at Mestil Hotel in Kampala, Uganda. Organized by the Climate Finance and Sustainability Centre at Makerere University Business School (MUBS) in collaboration with the Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services (UIBFS), the conference emerged as a beacon of hope, drawing diverse stakeholders committed to tackling the pressing issue of climate finance.

A Platform for Change and Collaboration

Inaugurated by Hon. Songa Lawrence Biyika, MP for Ora County and Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Climate Change, the event underscored the pivotal role of finance in addressing climate change. Hon. Biyika emphasized that while Africa must address the macro global climate finance gap, solving the microclimate finance gap at home is equally crucial. He also championed household-level sustainable practices as an integral part of national and continental climate efforts.

A series of thought-provoking presentations and dynamic panel discussions tackled issues ranging from national climate finance frameworks and carbon markets to the role of private sector funding. Experts like Mrs. Mona Mugume Ssebuliba, CEO of aBi Finance, shared insights on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies, while Dr. Denis Mugagga of Uganda’s Ministry of Finance highlighted progress in climate finance mobilization.

The conference also provided a platform to explore capacity-building opportunities, emphasizing the development of skills necessary to mobilize and deploy climate finance effectively. Mrs. Goretti Masadde, CEO of UIBFS, underscored the financial sector’s critical role, citing the institute’s efforts in advancing green finance initiatives, from the Green Finance curriculum to the pioneering Green Finance Awards.

Among the conference’s many influential voices was Mr. Colin Besigye, Head of Credit at Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) Uganda. Mr. Besigye presented a compelling case for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) as catalysts for green innovation, spotlighting their agility and grassroots connections. However, he stressed the need for targeted financial and policy support to unlock this potential.

Mr. Besigye also highlighted the importance of capacity-building programs tailored to equip SMEs with the tools and knowledge necessary for sustainable practices. Furthermore, he reiterated the need to address the microclimate finance gap to pave the way for Uganda to access broader international climate finance platforms.

Diamond Trust Bank: A Partner in Sustainability

Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) Uganda demonstrated its leadership in driving sustainable change. Under Mr. Besigye’s stewardship, DTB has actively shaped Uganda’s green economy trajectory. Beyond financing, the bank has embraced sustainability as a core tenet, participating in projects like the Kasonke Forest Reserve Restoration. DTB’s tailored credit solutions are easing access to funds for businesses transitioning to eco-friendly models, reinforcing its commitment to the country’s broader green economy goals.

A Call for Collective Action

“Climate change is a global problem that requires a global response,” one participant aptly noted. With a clear roadmap emerging from the conference, Uganda and the broader African region are better positioned to lead in climate finance innovation and mobilization.

Diamond Trust Bank’s commitment to responsible banking and green finance initiatives further cements its role as a key enabler in Uganda’s journey toward a sustainable future. By supporting SMEs and championing climate-resilient projects, DTB continues to contribute meaningfully to the collective effort against climate change.

The 2nd Annual Climate Finance Conference was made possible through the collaborative efforts of several organizations, including DTB, UNCDF, IFAD, GIZ, and others. As it concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and actionable insights. The event highlighted the importance of cross-sector partnerships and academic contributions in shaping robust climate finance strategies.