How One Woman’s Vision Transformed Uganda’s Development Bank and Redefined Africa’s Financial Future
A Decade of Transformation
Since 2013, Dr. Ojangole has led Uganda Development Bank Ltd. (UDBL) to unprecedented growth, with its balance sheet expanding tenfold by 2024. Her visionary leadership continues to drive the bank’s success, ensuring its role as a cornerstone of Uganda’s industrialization and sustainable development.
Her strategic focus on transformative delivery, green finance, and digital innovation has not only reshaped the bank but also set a new standard for development finance in Africa.
Frome Audit Expert to Visionary Leader
With a PhD in Development Finance and over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ojangole brought a unique blend of financial acumen and bold vision to UDBL. Before leading the bank, she spent a decade at Standard Bank Group, where she mastered risk management and governance, skills that have been instrumental in her success. At UDBL, she rebuilt stakeholder confidence, positioning the bank as the go-to source for long-term, affordable capital in Uganda.
Her leadership has earned her global recognition, including the title of “Banker of the Year 2025” at the African Banker Awards and « Sustainability Leader of the Year »for four consecutive years. These accolades reflect her commitment to inclusive growth, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience.
Breaking New Ground
In 2025, Dr. Ojangole reached another milestone by becoming the first woman to chair the Association of African Development Finance Institutions (AADFI). This historic appointment underscores her role as a trailblazer, bringing fresh perspectives to pan-African financial policies and inspiring a new generation of leaders.
Beyond UDBL, she serves on the boards of Trademark Africa, Liberty Life Assurance Uganda, and ADFIMI, where she continues to shape sustainable development strategies
across the continent. Her influence extends beyond Uganda, making her a key architect of Africa’s financial future.
A Legacy of Impact and Inspiration
Dr. Ojangole’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and purpose. She has proven that leadership is not just about managing institutions—it’s about transforming them. By prioritizing industrialization, job creation, and green finance, she has shown how development banks can drive real, measurable change.
Her journey is a call to action for aspiring leaders, especially women, to challenge norms, embrace bold ideas, and lead with impact.
