The Ugandan government has earmarked Shs 520 billion for disbursement through PostBank’s Wendi mobile wallet this quarter, as part of its Parish Development Model (PDM). This strategic move aims to boost local entrepreneurship and stimulate economic growth by reaching underserved communities.
Transforming Lives Through Accessible Finance
The allocated funds will support various groups, including small business owners, farmers, and low-income households. By offering access to formal financial services, Wendi seeks to empower these communities, enabling them to enhance their economic well-being and contribute significantly to Uganda’s development.
According to government officials, the platform will channel over Shs 520 billion directly to 10,589 Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs) across more than 150 districts . This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the PDM, which focuses on fostering local entrepreneurship and driving economic progress.
By integrating with the PDM, Wendi plays a crucial role in boosting household-level investments and revitalizing small businesses nationwide. With a competitive 10% interest rate on savings , the platform not only promotes financial inclusion but also encourages Ugandans to adopt a culture of saving.
As more than one million active users engage with Wendi, the benefits are becoming increasingly evident—stronger local economies, improved financial literacy, and growing trust in formal financial systems.
Bridging Gaps in Financial Access
Edward Katende, Coordinator of the Parish Development Model program at Operation Wealth Creation, highlighted Wendi’s transformative impact. “Wendi is revolutionizing banking by bringing financial services directly to households without requiring them to travel long distances,” he said.
When the PDM was launched, over 3.5 million households were trapped in subsistence economies, and approximately 6 million Ugandans lacked access to banking services. Despite existing microfinance initiatives, about 16 million Ugandans remained financially excluded. The introduction of traditional banking faced significant challenges, such as long queues and limited reach in remote areas like Karamoja.
Katende explained, “Initially, we collaborated with 13 banks, but issues like overcrowded branches and lack of infrastructure in rural areas persisted.” Wendi addressed these gaps by leveraging mobile technology. “With Wendi, we’ve successfully brought banking services directly to people’s phones, eliminating the need for travel or waiting in lines,” he added.
Driving Rapid Transformation Across Communities
Moses Godfrey Otim, District Commercial Officer in Bukedea, shared how Wendi has transformed his community. “In just three to four months, my district disbursed Shs 16.2 billion to 16,725 individuals , most of whom had never accessed traditional banking before,” he said.
Kisiramu Twalib, Chairman of Bugonza LC in Kaliro District, praised Wendi’s efficiency. “Families no longer endure exhausting journeys to distant banks or spend hours queuing. Instead, funds are transferred instantly to their mobile phones, accompanied by real-time SMS confirmations.”
Wendi’s extensive network of over 6,000 active agents nationwide ensures widespread access to financial services. These agents provide convenient and secure ways for individuals and businesses to manage their finances.
Expanding Financial Literacy
Beyond facilitating transactions, Wendi recognizes the importance of educating users. Partnering with CARE International in Uganda, the platform rolled out training programs in key districts, including Kabarole, Kasese, Gulu, Lira, Bushenyi, and Nebbi. These programs focus on teaching individuals about digital banking practices and promoting safe usage of the platform.
Annet Tumwijukye, a mobilizer from Threads of Blessing in the Rwenzori Diocese, emphasized the significance of e-banking. “Adopting e-banking is vital for our group. It opens doors to greater opportunities and fosters financial independence,” she said.
Security remains a priority for Wendi users. Gwigo Fred, a resident of Nakalanga in Kaliro District, urged caution. “Some users have fallen victim to fraud. My advice is simple: safeguard your PINs and use Wendi responsibly,” he advised.
Serving Diverse Groups
Wendi caters to a wide array of savings groups, both formal and informal, including village savings and loan associations (VSLAs), community-based organizations (CBOs), Kibiina groups, SACCOs, and family cash rounds. Users can conveniently manage transactions and access funds through the platform.
According to Wendi’s statistics for 2024:
- A total of 9,286 PDM SACCOs received funding.
- Over Shs 922.2 billion was disbursed.
- More than 886,000 members benefited, receiving Shs 882.4 billion .
