Bank launches initiative to boost adoption of cashless economy

By Francis Kajubi , The Guardian
Published at 11:58 AM Sep 13 2024
Absa Bank Tanzania Chief Financial Officer Bernard Tesha (R), Head of Retail Banking Ndabu Swere, and Marketing and Communications Manager Beda Biswalo display the keys to three brand-new 2024 Subaru Forester cars to be awarded to winners .
Photo: Guardian Correspondent
Absa Bank Tanzania Chief Financial Officer Bernard Tesha (R), Head of Retail Banking Ndabu Swere, and Marketing and Communications Manager Beda Biswalo display the keys to three brand-new 2024 Subaru Forester cars to be awarded to winners .

In a bid to promote cashless economy, Absa Bank Tanzania has unveiled a new three-month initiative, designed to promote the use of digital banking channels.

Customers participating in the campaign have the opportunity to win a brand-new vehicle each month.

The initiative highlights the bank’s dedication to driving financial inclusion and aligns with its mission of ‘Empowering Africa’s tomorrow, together, one story at a time,’ as well as its brand promise, ‘Your story matters.’

At a media briefing in Dar es Salaam recently, Absa Bank Tanzania’s Chief Financial Officer Bernard Tesha explained that this initiative aims to boost digital adoption across Tanzania.

“We have invested significantly in digital transformation to meet our customers' evolving needs and to support the government’s efforts toward increased financial inclusion,” Tesha said.

The initiative, running from September 10, 2024, to December 10, 2024, will award a Subaru Forester 2014 model to one lucky customer each month.

Through the campaign, any bank’s customer who makes transactions using their debit or credit card is automatically entered into the raffle draw. 

Customers who complete at least 20 card transactions totaling a minimum of 5m/- each will earn raffle tickets for the monthly draw. Additionally, customers using Absa’s digital banking platforms will receive bonus tickets.

Ndabu Swere, Head of Retail Banking, emphasized the inclusive nature of the campaign: “We want this campaign to be impactful for everyone. Both existing and new customers can participate, and the more transactions they make, the higher their chances of winning.”

Digital banking transactions through platforms like Absa Mobile Banking, Internet Banking, and Hello Money will also grant customers additional raffle tickets, increasing their chances of winning.

According to Swere, the campaign supports Absa’s goal of broadening financial inclusion in Tanzania by encouraging a shift from traditional banking methods to digital transactions. Digital adoption not only offers convenience but also reduces cash-based transactions, which aligns with the government’s financial inclusion goals.

Tesha noted, “We believe that increasing digital adoption is essential for driving financial inclusion in Tanzania. Our investment in digital infrastructure allows us to offer secure and accessible banking services to customers across the country.”

The campaign, themed ‘Winning a Car Can Change Your Story,’ reflects Absa’s brand promise that ‘Your story matters.’Digital