Mbale, Uganda | Excitement and cheers filled Nabumali Boarding Primary School in Mbale on Thursday, October 23, 2025, as Equity Bank Uganda officially handed over the school’s first-ever bus a milestone that marked a new chapter in its 50-year history.
The event began at the Equity Bank Mbale Branch, where officials flagged off the new bus before heading to the school grounds. Upon arrival, guests were warmly welcomed with poetry and dance performances from pupils, setting a vibrant tone for the celebration.
The ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including District Education Officer Paddy Khaukha, Mbale City Mayor Moses Kutoi, and Reverend Eridad Milton Shissa, the Diocesan Secretary of Mbale Diocese.
Equity Bank officials said the gesture reflects the bank’s continued commitment to empowering education and uplifting local communities. The bus was acquired through Equity Bank’s Asset Financing facility, which enables schools, individuals, and businesses to obtain essential assets without paying the full amount upfront.
According to Ronald Sam Nakhasanga, Regional Manager for Eastern Uganda, “Nabumali Boarding Primary School paid 20% of the total cost of the bus, while Equity Bank covered the remaining 80%. The school will repay this balance over nine school terms equivalent to three years.”
For the school, the bus represents more than just transport it’s a solution to long-standing mobility challenges. Head Teacher Beatrice Katami Wachaya expressed deep appreciation to Equity Bank, noting that the vehicle will ease student transport to academic functions and benefit the surrounding community.
“This bus is not just for our school but for everyone around us,” she said. “As educators, our mission extends beyond the classroom it’s about transforming lives and supporting the communities we serve. This partnership with Equity Bank brings that vision to life.”
Founded in 1975 by missionaries, Nabumali Boarding Primary School is among the oldest in the Bugisu subregion. Jointly managed by the Church of Uganda and the government, it remains the only boarding primary school under the Universal Primary Education (UPE) program in the region.
The bus handover marks a proud moment not only for the school but also for the entire community a symbol of progress, partnership, and the shared goal of advancing education in Eastern Uganda.