By Frank Kamuntu
I&M Bank Uganda celebrated 50 years of the institution’s existence with a lavish dinner that was held at Kampala Serena Hotel on Friday.
Though it has only operated in Uganda for three years following the acquisition of Orient Bank in 2021, I&M Bank was started in Kenya 50 years ago and the Ugandan entry cemented their presence in East Africa, as they already had operations in Tanzania, Rwanda and Mauritius.
At the dinner, significant customers were recognised and naturally the Golden Award went to tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia. He is Uganda’s richest man, so having him as your bank’s customer contributes significantly to the business’ performance.
“This prestigious award is presented to I&M Bank’s key customer and strategic business partner in commemoration of their fundamental contribution to the growth of our business and continued dedication to create opportunities for us to do more within their ecosystem,” I&M Uganda’s Chairman Suleiman Kiggundu Jr said as the award was being handed to Sudhir.
The bank’s long standing customers were also regonised at the event.
The other notable award, the Lifetime Achievement Award went Ketan Morjaria who planted I&M Bank’s roots in Uganda with Orient Bank, before the Kenyan financial institution acquired his establishment in 2021.
I&M Bank Uganda Managing Director, Mr Robin Bairstow commended Morjaria for his visionary leadership throughout the bank’s existence, his earned trust as an industry thought leader and unwavering commitment to the financial well-being of the people of Uganda. Morjaria now serves as a board member of the bank.
Other awards were handed over to the bank’s long-standing customers like Dr Allan Shonubi of Shonubi Musoke and Co. Advocates, Former Attorney General William Byaruhanga and HL Investments among others.