KAMPALA – Opportunity Bank Uganda has appointed Allen Semboze as its new Chief Executive Officer, bringing on board an experienced microfinance and banking executive to lead the institution into its next phase of growth.
Semboze succeeds Brian Collins Amanyire, who had been serving as Acting CEO following the departure of Owen Amanya. During his tenure, Amanyire guided the institution through its transition from a commercial bank to a Tier II credit institution while maintaining its focus on financial inclusion, agricultural lending and digital banking.
The appointment comes nearly two years after Opportunity Bank voluntarily changed its licence from a Tier I commercial bank to a Tier II credit institution. Under the new licence, the institution continues to accept deposits and offer loans but no longer provides current accounts or foreign exchange services.
In a statement announcing the appointment, the bank described Semboze as a seasoned financial services leader with more than 20 years of experience in banking, digital financial services and microfinance.
“Allen brings a wealth of expertise, a passion for innovation, and a shared commitment to expanding opportunity for the communities we serve,” the bank said. It added that his leadership will support its mission of providing accessible and innovative financial solutions to individuals, businesses and communities across Uganda.
Semboze takes over at a time when Opportunity Bank is investing heavily in digital banking. During 2025, digital transaction volumes increased by 1.8 times, while the value of digital transactions grew by 2.5 times. The proportion of customers using digital channels instead of over-the-counter banking also rose from 54 percent to 69 percent.
The institution has also expanded its lending to underserved communities. Agriculture now accounts for more than one-third of its loan portfolio, reflecting its continued support for farmers and agribusinesses.
In addition, Opportunity Bank strengthened its financial inclusion efforts by opening a fully operational branch in the Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement, helping increase lending to refugees to UGX 1.2 billion. The institution also joined the Global Alliance for Banking on Values, reinforcing its commitment to responsible and inclusive banking.
Despite a challenging operating environment, the bank continued to grow during the past year. Total assets increased to UGX 274.9 billion from UGX 265.9 billion, while its net loan portfolio grew by 6.2 percent. Although higher operating and funding costs affected profitability, the bank maintained a strong capital position, with a capital adequacy ratio of 20.74 percent, well above the regulatory requirement.
Semboze assumes leadership as competition in Uganda’s financial sector continues to intensify, with lenders increasingly relying on digital innovation and specialised lending to drive growth.
Before joining Opportunity Bank, he served as Chief Executive Officer of ASA Microfinance (Uganda) Limited from August 2024 to July 2026. He also serves on the board of the Association of Microfinance Institutions of Uganda, representing Bank of Uganda-regulated Tier I, Tier II and Tier III financial institutions.
Semboze recently completed the International Executive Development Leadership Programme at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business. He holds a Master of Science degree in Economics and Finance from the University of Bradford.
Under his leadership, Opportunity Bank is expected to build on its digital transformation strategy while expanding access to affordable financial services for individuals, small businesses and underserved communities across Uganda.
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