Housing Finance Bank Earns ISO 27001:2022 Certification, Boosting Information Security and Customer Trust

Housing Finance Bank (HFB) has achieved the ISO 27001:2022 certification, marking a major milestone in strengthening information security and reinforcing customer trust.

The certification, awarded during a ceremony in Kampala, recognizes the bank’s commitment to protecting customer data and maintaining high standards of governance in an increasingly digital banking environment.

ISO 27001:2022 is a globally recognized standard for establishing and maintaining an effective Information Security Management System (ISMS). It helps organizations safeguard sensitive information such as financial data, intellectual property, and employee records.

Speaking at the event, HFB Managing Director Michael K. Mugabi said the certification reflects the bank’s dedication to security and excellence.

“This certification is a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence in information security,” Mugabi said. “It demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that our systems are resilient and trustworthy, giving customers the confidence they deserve in today’s digital era.”

Representatives from Certi-Trust, the awarding body, officially presented the certificate, applauding the bank’s proactive efforts to meet international standards. Stella Simiyu of Sentinel Africa Consulting Ltd, which supported the certification process, noted that the achievement goes beyond compliance.

“ISO 27001:2022 is not just about meeting a checklist; it’s about creating a culture of security within the organization,” she said. “Housing Finance Bank’s accomplishment sends a clear message that customer data is in safe hands.”

Mike Kamau of Certi-Trust added that attaining ISO 27001:2022 certification is a rigorous process that demonstrates an organization’s capacity to identify, manage, and respond to security risks effectively.

The certification reflects years of investment by HFB in technology, employee training, and building a culture of cybersecurity awareness. The bank has emphasized that protecting customer information is everyone’s responsibility, from top management to front-line staff.

Mugabi urged other financial institutions to prioritize cybersecurity, saying,

“In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is not optional; it is essential. We encourage our peers to embrace these standards to protect our collective future.”

Established in 1967 and licensed as a commercial bank in 2008, Housing Finance Bank is a leader in mortgage financing in Uganda, with a loan book valued at UGX 414 billion and core capital of UGX 273.8 billion as of December 2023.

The ISO 27001:2022 certification further cements the bank’s position as a trusted and forward-looking financial institution, setting a benchmark for information security in Uganda’s banking sector.