History of the Bank

    Bank of Uganda was opened on August 15, 1966. On that day Uganda’s first national currency (notes) also came into circulation.

    Prior to that, the East African Currency Board (EACB) had been carrying out the activities of Central Banking for the East African Countries.

    The Bank's Museum provides a unique insight into the History of the Bank and its business.

    Location

    The Bank’s first premises were at Liverpool House, (which used to stand where Jubilee House is now located) situated at Plot 14 at the junction of Parliament Avenue(former Obote Avenue) and Impala Avenue (former Portal Avenue). The building was leased as a temporary Head Quarters of the Bank. Construction of the Bank's permanent premises started at the end of 1967.

    The Bank’s current Headquarters, comprising of two buildings referred to by the staff as “The Old Building” and “The New Building” are situated at Plot 37/43 Kampala Road. The Bank also owns Plot 45 which currenctly houses the Museum and other Departments.

    Original Organisation

    When the Bank started its operations on 15 August 1966, it had a staff of 70 and the following Departments:

    • General Manager’s Department (comprising  Banking and Currency)

    • Accounts

    • Public Debt

    Since the Bank opened, it has been headed by nine Governors. The Bank has grown since 1966 to its present size where it has 5 Branches and 4 Currency Centers.