Financial management practices and financial performance of commercial banks in Uganda: a case study of Centenary Bank, Mapeera Branch

Abstract

The study examined the contribution of financial management practices on financial performance of commercial banks in Uganda basing on a case study of Centenary Bank, Mapeera Branch. It was guided by three objectives i) to examine how financial reporting influences financial performance of Centenary Bank, Mapeera Branch, ii)to examine how working capital management influences financial performance of Centenary Bank, Mapeera Branchandiii) to assess how assets management influences financial performance of Centenary Bank, Mapeera Branch. The study adopted a phenomenological approach usingboth qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The study population was 70 and a sample size of 59 respondents. The studyrevealed that financial reporting had Adjusted R Square of 66.4%, while working capital management had Adjusted R Square of 51.9% and assets managementhad Adjusted R Square of 82.5%. It is concluded that financial reporting was essential and significant in enhancing the financial performance. Preparation of financial statements timely and effectively and ensuring accuracy and accountability makes the bank to be on the right side with the law by meeting the requirements of the regulator as far as financial reporting is concerned. It was also indicated that assets management was a critical driver in enhancing the financial performance of the commercial bank. The study suggested that management should embrace proper cash inventory and creditors management so as to ensure the institutions are able to finance their operations without financial limitations. It was also suggested that the commercial bank deals with liquid cash, enhancing their liquidity through keeping proper relationship with the shareholders is appropriate