Centenary Bank has restored full service at its Iganga District branch following a fire that disrupted operations on Friday evening.
In a statement, Beatrice Lugalambi, the bank’s Corporate Communications and Marketing Manager, confirmed that by midday, normal operations had resumed, allowing customers to access the branch as well as other alternatives used during the closure.
“The fire brigade and police worked quickly and tirelessly to contain the situation. Their prompt and professional response ensured that the situation was handled efficiently and safely,” Lugalambi stated.
She also reassured customers that their deposits and documentation remained secure despite the incident.
The fire, which reportedly started due to a power short circuit, damaged the bulk till area but did not result in any injuries. This quick containment was thanks to the rapid response from emergency services.
Lugalambi expressed gratitude for their efforts, saying,
“We apologize for any inconveniences this may have caused and appreciate your understanding and patience. Our primary concern remains the safety of our customers and staff.”
The temporary closure necessitated that customers rely on alternative banking methods such as Centemobile and the bank’s network of agents.
“By Today normal operations had resumed and our customers were able to access our services at the branch alongside agents and Centemobile which they were using during the temporary closure,” Lugalambi noted.
Local business owner John Kato, a regular customer of the branch, shared his experience during the downtime.
“It was a bit of a shock when I heard about the fire, but I was able to continue my transactions through Centemobile.The bank’s swift communication helped a lot,” he said.
Despite the setback, Centenary Bank’s rapid recovery highlights their robust contingency planning and commitment to customer service. The bank's ability to swiftly resume operations is a testament to their resilience and dedication to maintaining service continuity even in the face of unexpected disruptions.
Local residents and businesses in Iganga, who rely heavily on the branch for their banking needs, expressed relief at the swift resolution. Mary Nabukeera, another customer, remarked,
“I am thankful for the quick recovery. The bank's assurance about the safety of our money was very comforting during this period.”
Centenary Bank’s proactive measures following the incident underscore their commitment to safety and customer satisfaction.
As part of their ongoing efforts to maintain high service standards, the bank has pledged to enhance their fire safety protocols and infrastructure to prevent future incidents.
Lugalambi concluded by thanking customers for their patience and support during the closure.
“We remain committed to ensuring that our premises are safe for our staff, customers, and stakeholders. Your patience and understanding during this time have been greatly appreciated,” she said.
The prompt resumption of services at the Iganga branch serves as a strong indicator of Centenary Bank’s resilience and their steadfast dedication to their customers' needs, reinforcing their position as a reliable financial institution in Uganda.
