Themed “Bridging Knowledge and Practice: Research as a Driver of Financial Sector Transformation,” the event brought together policymakers, regulators, academics, bankers, researchers, and students to explore how research can shape innovation, stability, and growth in Uganda’s financial sector.

The conference featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and paper presentations on topics such as Digital Finance and Artificial Intelligence, Climate Change and Monetary Policy, and the broader role of research in advancing financial services.

UIBFS CEO Goretti Masadde underscored the importance of actionable research in policy and industry decision-making. “We want research that goes beyond theory—research that influences strategy, product design, and sector transformation,” she said.

Michael K. Mugabi, Chairperson of the UIBFS Board and Managing Director of Housing Finance Bank, highlighted the institute’s commitment to building a strong research culture, while Bank of Uganda Governor, Michael Atingi-Ego, called for deeper integration of research into financial stability frameworks.

The Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, who served as Guest of Honour, praised the conference as a platform that will shape Uganda’s policy direction and inspire innovative financial solutions.

Key highlights included:

• Launch of the UIBFS Research Fund to support industry-relevant studies.

• Unveiling of the UIBFS Research Agenda and Book of Abstracts featuring papers presented.

• Announcement of plans to establish a Research Centre of Excellence jointly managed by UIBFS and Makerere University to strengthen knowledge creation, capacity building, and policy advisory.

The conference was supported by leading institutions including the Bank of Uganda, Centenary Bank, Pride Microfinance, the Insurance Training College, and the Bank of Tanzania.

As the first of its kind, the UIBFS Research Conference is expected to become an annual platform for knowledge exchange, bridging academia and industry, and shaping the future of Uganda’s financial services sector.