Vodacom & Bolt Partner for Financial Inclusion

By Guardian Correspondent , The Guardian
Published at 06:06 PM Nov 11 2024
Vodacom's Head of Merchants, Kilian Kamota, M-Pesa Director Epimack Mbeteni, Bolt Tanzania General Manager Dimmy Kanyankole, and Senior Manager Milu Kipimo at the launch of a partnership between Vodacom and Bolt to boost financial inclusion in Tanzania.
Photo: Correspondent
Vodacom's Head of Merchants, Kilian Kamota, M-Pesa Director Epimack Mbeteni, Bolt Tanzania General Manager Dimmy Kanyankole, and Senior Manager Milu Kipimo at the launch of a partnership between Vodacom and Bolt to boost financial inclusion in Tanzania.

Vodacom Tanzania Plc has launched a landmark partnership with Bolt, Tanzania's leading ride-hailing service, aimed at enhancing financial inclusion for drivers while promoting cashless payments. The collaboration will offer bolt drivers — including car, Bajaj, and Bodaboda operators — access to an extensive range of digital financial services via M-Pesa, creating more secure and efficient financial management options for their businesses.

This partnership introduces essential financial tools, including the 'Lipa kwa Simu' cashless payment system, device financing, various insurance options, merchant loans, and the Chomoka fuel loan. Designed with the needs of Bolt drivers in mind, these services will not only simplify transactions but also provide critical support for vehicle maintenance, fuel access, and insurance coverage, helping drivers improve their overall service to customers.

“Through this partnership with Bolt, we’re bringing secure, convenient, and cashless payments to the forefront, allowing Bolt drivers to increase their earnings while easily accessing services like fuel loans and insurance products. This collaboration aligns with our goal to build a robust cashless payment ecosystem and drive financial inclusion across Tanzania, supporting both the drivers’ livelihood and the country’s digital economy,” said Epimack Mbeteni, Vodacom Tanzania’s M-Pesa Director.

On the other hand, Bolt’s General Manager, Dimmy Kanyankole, emphasized the positive impact for Bolt drivers and customers alike, stating, “Partnering with Vodacom Tanzania to integrate M-Pesa with Bolt’s services is a major milestone. It streamlines the payment process for drivers and customers while providing drivers with critical financial services that can help boost their economic well-being. This partnership will improve the overall service experience for Bolt users across Tanzania.”

Through this innovative partnership, Vodacom Tanzania and Bolt aim to increase digital transaction volumes while extending essential financial services to drivers and the larger community. By offering accessible loans, insurance, and simplified payment services, this partnership supports the digital and economic empowerment of Tanzanians and contributes to a more inclusive financial landscape.