Business 27 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Indian-Owned Businesses Dominate EADB Portfolio in Uganda, Says Official
The East African Development Bank (EADB) has revealed that approximately 70% of the businesses it finances in Uganda are owned by individuals of Indian origin. This dominance is attributed to the generational sustainability and strong track records of these enterprises. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/markets/70-of-eadb-funded-businesses-are-owned-by-indians-5573582
Businesses owned by people of Indian origin constitute a significant majority, around 70%, of those financed by the East African Development Bank (EADB) in Uganda. This trend highlights the bank’s reliance on enterprises with a proven history of continuity and sustainability.
Francis Ogwal, the EADB country representative, explained that many of these businesses have been in operation for up to four generations. This long operational history provides lenders with a substantial record to assess performance, governance, and repayment capabilities, which is crucial for securing development finance.
In contrast, many Ugandan-owned businesses often struggle with succession planning, robust governance, and maintaining credible financial records that extend beyond the founding generation. Ogwal urged local entrepreneurs to focus on building enterprises that can endure across generations to attract long-term investment.
The Asian business community in Uganda, though a small demographic, has historically held a strong presence in key economic sectors including commerce, manufacturing, and real estate. Their established presence predates the 1972 expulsion of Asians from Uganda.
EADB, established in 1967, supports businesses contributing to East Africa’s economic development across various sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The bank is also expanding its financing to include youth- and women-led enterprises through new funds and has previously allocated significant amounts to agricultural value chains. To qualify for EADB financing, businesses must demonstrate commercial viability, contribute to development objectives, and exhibit strong financial, governance, and operational sustainability, with a longer corporate history being a significant advantage.