Patapia

The company

Patapia empowers refugee women and girls to become economically independent, strong and self-determined leaders of change.

The problem

Access to livelihood opportunities and financial services is a challenge for the more than 1.6 million refugees living in Uganda, who cannot access loans due to high interest rates, lack of assets for collateral and lack of credit history. This makes it difficult for refugees to access the capital they need to start and grow a business. Low financial literacy and a lack of business planning skills and support compound these challenges, making self-sufficiency and integration in the local economy even harder.

GSMA project

In November 2024, Patapia received a GSMA grant to expand its operations and provide microloans to refugees living in Rwamwanja and Kyaka II refugee settlements in Uganda. The funding will also be used to provide capacity building for refugees on business planning and financial literacy. Patapia will also redesign the USSD interface of its digital banking.

Founder and COO

Rebecca Aime

Message from the founder

“Opportunities are the golden threads woven into the tapestry of life; embrace them, and watch your dreams come to life. The GSMA is that opportunity for Patapia and the refugee women in Uganda.”

Team