UBA Kicks Off Climate Action Week to Promote Green Finance in Africa

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has started a Climate Action Week to raise awareness about climate issues, encourage good environmental practices, and push for sustainable finance across its operations in Africa and beyond.

This five-day campaign, from 26 to 30 October 2026, is themed “Banking on Africa’s Climate Future.” It shows the Bank’s dedication to making environmental responsibility part of its operations, customer interactions, and financing options.

The initiative began with placing waste segregation bins in UBA offices and efforts to cut down on single-use plastics at the Bank’s headquarters. These actions show UBA’s commitment to turning sustainability principles into real actions in its workplaces and the wider community.

During the week, UBA will share educational materials on its media and digital platforms. The content will explain the causes and effects of climate change, including its impact on food prices, energy use, and urban flooding. The campaign will also encourage proper plastic disposal, recycling, and the important role of financial institutions in supporting clean energy, sustainable farming, and other eco-friendly businesses.

As part of its community work, UBA staff volunteers will take part in a clean-up event on Saturday, 7 November, in major cities where it operates. In Nigeria, this will happen in Lagos, Kano, and Port Harcourt, getting employees involved in making their communities cleaner and healthier.

UBA’s Group Managing Director/CEO, Oliver Alawuba, highlighted the need for everyone to take responsibility in tackling climate change.

“Climate change is no longer a distant environmental concern; it is increasingly shaping everyday life across Africa. We see its effects in rising food costs, increased energy demand, and flooding that disrupts homes, businesses, and livelihoods.

“At UBA, we believe that building a sustainable future requires collective action, beginning with the choices we make at work, at home, and in our communities. Through this Climate Action Week, we are encouraging every member of the UBA Tribe, alongside our customers and other stakeholders, to embrace practical, sustainable habits and inspire others to do the same,” Alawuba said.

UBA will also sponsor Climate Convergence Week in Lagos on Friday, 30 October. During this event, the Bank will hold a speaking session and join a panel discussion. This will be a chance to showcase UBA Green Finance, highlight the Bank’s sustainability efforts, and talk about how financial institutions can help Africa become more sustainable and resilient to climate issues.

Alawuba pointed out that climate issues are becoming more important for business survival, risk management, and long-term growth.

“Climate change presents significant risks to businesses, communities, and economies. These risks can affect business continuity, operating costs, and financial performance, making sustainability an increasingly important consideration for both businesses and the financial institutions that support them.

“Through UBA Green Finance, we seek to support eligible businesses investing in cleaner technologies and more sustainable operations. By helping customers explore financing solutions aligned with their needs, we can contribute to a more resilient private sector while unlocking opportunities for sustainable economic growth across Africa,” Alawuba added.

To strengthen its sustainability efforts, UBA plans to join the Sustainability Professionals Institute of Nigeria (SPIN). This move will enhance the Bank’s expertise in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) matters and support the ongoing professional development of its workers in sustainability fields.

The Climate Action Week is part of UBA’s broader sustainability strategy. This strategy includes environmental responsibility in its Customer First approach through responsible business practices, employee involvement, community projects, and green finance. By blending awareness, practical actions, and financing solutions, the Bank aims to encourage more sustainable choices while aiding businesses and communities in facing the challenges and opportunities of climate change.

United Bank for Africa is one of Africa’s top financial institutions and among the largest employers in its financial sector, with about 25,000 workers and over 45 million customers worldwide. Operating in 20 African countries, plus the UK, the USA, France, and the UAE, UBA offers retail, commercial, and institutional banking services, promoting financial inclusion and using technology to provide innovative financial solutions.