Keith Kalyegira: The New Face of Absa Bank Uganda’s Board

Absa Bank Uganda has appointed Keith Kalyegira as its new Board Chairperson, effective 1 March 2025. Kalyegira, a seasoned expert in strategy, investments, and capital markets, brings a wealth of experience spanning both the public and private sectors.

Prior to his appointment, Kalyegira served as the CEO of Uganda’s Capital Markets Authority (CMA) from 2013 to 2023, during which Uganda attained Appendix A membership in the International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO). He is currently a consultant specializing in strategy and investments, having played a key role in financial sector reforms across Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Tanzania.

Absa Uganda’s Interim Managing Director, David Wandera, expressed confidence in Kalyegira’s leadership, stating, “Keith’s impressive track record and passion align perfectly with our goals at Absa Bank Uganda. We are confident that his leadership will further accelerate Absa’s growth momentum and enhance stakeholder value.”

Kalyegira succeeds Nadine Byarugaba, who successfully guided the bank through its transition from Barclays to Absa and helped steer it through the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am honored to be appointed as the Chairman of Absa Bank Uganda. I look forward to collaborating with fellow board members and management to drive the bank’s vision. Together, we will deliver exceptional value to our clients and the community,” said Kalyegira.

With over two decades of leadership experience, Kalyegira holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Makerere University and an MBA from the University of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business. He is also a member of the Chartered Governance Institute, United Kingdom.

From 2008 to 2013, he led institutional reforms in Uganda’s electricity, financial, and water sectors, extending his expertise to South Sudan, Rwanda, and Tanzania. Earlier in his career, from 2003 to 2008, he played a pivotal role in improving the performance of Uganda’s public enterprises as Head of the Parastatal Monitoring Unit under the Public Enterprises Reform & Divestiture project.

Kalyegira’s journey in corporate leadership began in 1993 at Shell Uganda and later Shell South Africa’s aviation fuel division, further cementing his diverse expertise in business and financial management.

Industry experts believe his appointment is a strategic move that will strengthen Absa Bank Uganda’s position in the financial sector. “Keith has demonstrated expertise in steering institutional reforms across East Africa and will undoubtedly be a great asset to Absa Bank Uganda,” an industry expert commented.

As Absa Bank Uganda continues to expand its reach and enhance its services, Kalyegira’s appointment is seen as a significant step in shaping the bank’s future growth and impact.

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