KCB BANK TANZANIA LAUNCHES ZED 360 DIGITAL SYSTEM TO STREAMLINE SCHOOL FEE COLLECTION

BAGAMOYO, Tanzania – 17 September 2026 – KCB Bank Tanzania has officially launched ZED 360, a digital solution designed to improve school fee collection, payment reconciliation and financial information management for educational institutions across Tanzania.

The ZED 360 platform has been developed to help schools address ongoing challenges in revenue management, including difficulties in payment reconciliation, monitoring collections, maintaining financial records and accessing real-time financial information.

Speaking during the launch ceremony, KCB Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Cosmas Kimario, said the bank continues to put customers at the centre of its services by leveraging technology to provide solutions that simplify day-to-day operations for different customer segments.

“Through ZED 360, schools will have greater visibility in managing their revenues, reduce reliance on manual processes and make decisions using accurate, real-time information. The system has been designed to improve efficiency and strengthen accountability within educational institutions,” said Kimario.

ZED 360 Simplifies School Fee Management

ZED 360 simplifies the entire school fee management process, including invoice generation, fee collection, payment reconciliation and real-time financial reporting.

The system also benefits parents and guardians by enabling them to receive invoices conveniently and make school fee payments securely through multiple channels.

Through ZED 360, parents and guardians can pay school fees through all KCB Bank Tanzania branches, the KCB Mobile App, KCB agents and Mixx by Yas agents across the country.

Driving Digital Transformation in Education

The launch of ZED 360 forms part of KCB Bank Tanzania’s strategy to continue investing in digital transformation aimed at improving customer experience, increasing institutional efficiency and supporting the development of various sectors of the economy.

In the education sector, the solution is expected to help institutions enhance transparency in revenue and financial information management while enabling school administrators to access critical information in real time and make data-driven decisions.

KCB Bank Tanzania also thanked the management of Marian School for participating in the initial testing of the system, which provided valuable feedback that helped improve the solution ahead of its official launch.

KCB Calls on Schools to Embrace Digital Solutions

KCB Bank Tanzania has urged educational institutions across the country to embrace ZED 360 to improve school fee management, enhance transparency in financial systems and strengthen the delivery of education services.

By integrating school fee collection, payment reconciliation and financial reporting into a digital platform, ZED 360 is designed to support schools in managing their revenues and financial information more efficiently.

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WHY AFRICA IS EMERGING AS A STRATEGIC GLOBAL CONNECTOR?

By Nellyana Mmanyi, Corporate Banking Director, Absa Bank Tanzania

Global trade is being reshaped by geopolitics, as supply chains fragment and new alliances redraw the map of commerce. For Africa, this is not just disruption, it’s a strategic opening. In this pivotal decade, as companies diversify sourcing and rethink trade routes, the continent, particularly East Africa, is emerging as a critical connector between global markets.

Converting this moment into meaningful growth will depend on reducing friction, improving access to trade finance and enabling businesses to move with speed and certainty. This is where banks can play a fundamental role.

As change interrupts existing ways of trade, there’s a palpable shift from efficiency to resilience. Corporates are diversifying their supply chains, reducing single country dependence, for example, on China. They’re favouring nearshoring and friendshoring, expanding into Southern East Asia and India. Trade routes are becoming more regional and more complex with multiple sourcing and transit options built in to manage geopolitical risk.

More corridor-based trade routes are emerging. Trading based on proximity to geopolitical markets is increasing.

Africa is increasingly acting as both a production base and a trade connector with the Middle East and Asia. We see this in agriculture, business, manufacturing and the transit trade which is supported by improving port infrastructure and growing regional integration.

East Africa is no longer just a future opportunity - it is already emerging as a strategic trade bridge, with the region firmly positioned as one of the continent’s key growth hubs. The increasing interest from major international and regional banks seeking to establish or expand their presence here is a clear indication of where Africa’s growth momentum lies.

From a logistics and trade perspective, East Africa plays a pivotal gateway role. The Port of Dar es Salaam, for example, is a critical entry point supporting landlocked markets such as the DRC, Zambia, Uganda, and Rwanda. This importance is further reinforced by ongoing investments in key transport corridors, including Tanzania’s Central Corridor and Kenya’s Northern Corridor, which continue to enhance connectivity and facilitate trade across the region.

However, pragmatic barriers still prevent businesses from fully capitalising on these new trade opportunities. Despite the momentum, the execution challenges remain significant. The main constraints are logistical inefficiencies, regulatory fragmentation like non-trade barriers across African markets, customs inefficiencies and inconsistent policies in East Africa. Slow implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) at an operational level is a concern and foreign exchange volatility and market access to trade finance, particularly for SMEs, remain an obstacle. While there is demand for their goods, they struggle with execution across borders. Logistical inefficiencies in terms of infrastructure, like port congestion, railroad inefficiencies, potholes and a lack of tarmac, coupled with high inland transport costs, all hinder successful trade.

Financial institutions can support clients in navigating these complexities. To be successful in a competitive market, banks must differentiate themselves by moving beyond transactions to end-to-end trade enablement. At Absa, we are seeing growing demand from corporates for integrated cross-border banking support that combines trade finance, foreign exchange solutions and regional market expertise. Clients are looking not just for funding, but for banking partners that can help them navigate increasingly complex trade corridors with speed and certainty. Banks must therefore offer not just vanilla letters of credit, or overdraft facilities, but flexible trade finance and structured trade solutions.

Speed as a differentiator is critical. Ultimately the bank that moves fastest wins the client.

Looking ahead, multiple factors will determine whether Africa truly captures this moment or misses the golden opportunity. Success will depend on five factors.

Firstly, the implementation of the AfCFTA is paramount, to move from policy to real trade flows and reducing non-tariff barriers.

Secondly, infrastructure delivery, for ports, rail and energy investment, must translate into efficiency and not just capacity.

We need to improve access to capital by bridging the trade finance gap and supporting the SME-sized corporates to upscale regionally.

Fourth, is an industrialisation focus and a shift from raw export materials to value added production and the involvement of regional supply chains.

Lastly, institutional coordination in terms of alignment between government, banks and the private sector is critical. We need policy consistency and investor confidence.

Africa, East Africa in particular, has a remarkable opportunity to position itself in global trade, not only in terms of its excellent existing market, but as a connector and a production hub. Success won’t be automatic. It will depend on the speed of execution, access to capital and the ability of banking institutions to actively enable clients across the trade value chain. The opportunity is real, but it won’t wait.

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OTR STAFF RECEIVE TRAINING ON QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

By the OTR Reporter, Dar es Salaam │ The Office of the Treasury Registrar (OTR) has stepped up efforts to strengthen its operational systems by equipping staff with knowledge and skills on the Quality Management System (QMS), as part of its drive to align the institution with internationally recognised quality standards.

The training, conducted by Amaxon Company Limited and held on Friday, September 4, 2026, in Dar es Salaam, is part of OTR’s preparations to obtain ISO 9001:2015 certification, an internationally recognised standard for quality management systems.

Opening the training on behalf of the Treasury Registrar, Ms Lightness Mauki, the Director of Performance Management of Commercial entities, said the implementation of QMS would enable OTR to strengthen its work systems, improve efficiency and ensure that its services respond effectively to the needs of stakeholders.

“We want to be recognised internationally for delivering quality services, operating efficiently and meeting the expectations of our stakeholders,” Ms Mauki said.

She said achieving this objective would require the participation of all staff, supported by clear procedures that define how work is carried out, monitored and assessed.

The staff training was preceded by a one-week capacity-building programme for QMS Champions drawn from all OTR departments and units.

The programme equipped them with practical skills in applying quality management principles to their day-to-day work, as well as conducting internal audits of work systems.

The QMS Champions are expected to play an important role in promoting and supporting the implementation of the system across different areas of the institution, helping to ensure that its requirements are well understood and consistently applied.

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VODACOM CUTS CARBON EMISSIONS BY 24% AS NETWORK MODERNISATION REACHES 27.7 MILLION CUSTOMERS

Vodacom Tanzania Plc Network Director, Andrew Lupembe (left), and the company’s Director of External Affairs & Regulatory, Zuweina Farah, speak during the launch of the company’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report for the financial year ended March 2026. The report highlights a 24% reduction in carbon emissions and significant investment in network modernisation.

FY2026 ESG Snapshot shows diesel consumption down by two million litres and energy savings increasing more than six-fold

Dar es Salaam - September 3, 2026: Vodacom Tanzania Plc has released its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Snapshot for the year ended 31 March 2026, reporting a 24% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions alongside the largest network modernisation programme in the company’s history.

During the year, the company invested TZS 3.5 billion in energy-efficiency initiatives, delivering energy savings of 18,340 megawatt-hours (MWh) — more than six times the 2,861 MWh saved in FY2025.

Scope 1 and 2 market-based emissions fell to 18,445.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e), from a restated 24,285.6 tonnes. Diesel consumption also declined by 24%, from 8.6 million litres to 6.6 million litres.

The reductions were driven by a major network modernisation programme that replaced legacy radio equipment across 1,808 sites in just seven months — work equivalent to roughly three years of normal deployment — together with improved grid stability that significantly reduced generator runtime at the company’s data centres.

LESS ENERGY, WIDER REACH

Vodacom Tanzania’s network consumes approximately 169.5 GWh of energy annually across more than 3,800 sites, including 2,190 in rural areas. Base stations account for 78.9% of total energy consumption, making improvements in network equipment efficiency one of the company’s most significant opportunities for reducing its environmental footprint.

During the year, 169 off-grid sites were connected to the national grid.

At the Kwale data centre, a power upgrade from 11kVA to 33kVA reduced generator runtime from 18 hours a day to just two hours, resulting in an 88% reduction in diesel consumption at the site.

The company also credited the Government of Tanzania’s hydropower expansion programme, which reached 75% completion during the year, with contributing materially to improved stability in national power availability.

Renewable sources accounted for 57% of Vodacom Tanzania’s total energy consumption. The company maintained its commitment to matching all purchased grid electricity with renewable energy sources, keeping Scope 2 market-based emissions at zero.

Vodacom Tanzania also renewed its ISO 50001 energy management certification with no non-conformances raised, while Scope 3 emissions declined to 94,944 tCO₂e from 100,455 tCO₂e.

“The environmental gain came from doing the core engineering properly, not from a separate sustainability project,” said Andrew Lupembe, Network Director at Vodacom Tanzania.

“Replacing old equipment across 1,808 sites gives the customer a faster connection and the country two million litres less diesel burned. Those are the same decisions.”

COVERAGE AND CONNECTION

Vodacom Tanzania’s 4G population coverage reached 76.3%, with the network serving 27.7 million customers following the launch of Tanzania’s first 5G service.

Smartphone penetration stood at 46.7%, while 325,415 customers acquired devices through retail financing partnerships. For customers without smartphones, a new AI-assisted service enables access to internet-based information through SMS and voice calls, extending digital assistance to more people, including those in rural areas.

M-Pesa served 14.1 million financial inclusion customers during the year. M-Koba, Vodacom’s digitised savings group platform whose members are predominantly women, reached 299,420 active groups, with total savings increasing by 81%.

The Vodacom Tanzania Foundation reached 2.9 million beneficiaries.

Working with the Tanzania Institute of Education, the company zero-rated the national teacher development platform, enabling 121,832 teachers to access professional development materials without incurring data charges.

Vodacom Tanzania also supported the planting of a further 80,000 indigenous trees in the Kahe 2 Forest on Mount Kilimanjaro.

The company recorded its fourteenth consecutive year without a workplace fatality. Its network modernisation programme involved 411 workers travelling more than 1.7 million kilometres, with the first phase completed without a fatality or major incident.

Vodacom Tanzania also maintained its ISO 27001 certification for information security and recorded zero anti-competition and anti-money laundering fines during the year.

“The numbers in this report tell only part of the story,” said Philip Besiimire, Managing Director of Vodacom Tanzania.

“Behind every connection is a life being changed — a teacher accessing learning materials at no data cost, or a savings group that no longer has to keep cash in a tin. We will continue to hold ourselves accountable to the people of Tanzania who trust us every day.”

Read the Full ESG Report Here

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OTR, ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI SEEK STRONGER LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIP

Dar es Salaam. Treasury Registrar Nehemiah Mchechu has held discussions with representatives of AngloGold Ashanti, a leading global mining company, on strengthening the company’s long-term relationship with the government and advancing cooperation in Tanzania.

The discussions took place on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, when a delegation from AngloGold Ashanti, through its Tanzanian subsidiary, Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML), paid a courtesy visit to the Office of the Treasury Registrar (OTR) to brief Mr Mchechu on the company’s business developments and interests in the country.

The delegation was led by Ms Lizelle Marwick, Chief Legal Officer of AngloGold Ashanti, and included Ambassador Baso Sangqu, Senior Vice President for Sustainability at AngloGold Ashanti, and Mr Simon Shayo, Vice President for Sustainability and Stakeholder Engagement at Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML).

Mr Mchechu said OTR, as the government’s shareholder representative, approaches its relationship with companies from the perspective of being a fellow shareholder rather than an opposing party.

“Whatever keeps you away also keeps us away, and whatever brings results brings results for both of us,” he said, underscoring the importance of working together to achieve sustainable business outcomes.

He said OTR works closely with relevant authorities, with the institutions reading from the same page on key issues to ensure consistency and stability for investors.

Mr Mchechu said OTR was committed to building a long-term relationship with AngloGold Ashanti based on mutual understanding, effective corporate governance and a shared interest in ensuring the success of the business.

He also stressed the importance of strengthening corporate governance and ensuring that boards have capable members with a strong understanding of business, enterprise and strategic direction, particularly in companies that contribute taxes and dividends to the Government.

For her part, Ms Marwick said AngloGold Ashanti values its relationships with host governments and appreciates its long-standing engagement with the Tanzanian Government.

She said the company was committed to building a genuine partnership in which both sides contribute their strengths and perspectives for mutual benefit and the wider interests of the country.

Ms Marwick said AngloGold Ashanti was ready to support capacity building for government-appointed directors through governance and induction programmes covering fiduciary responsibilities, board processes and financial literacy.

She also proposed technical exposure visits to Geita Gold Mine to help government directors better understand mining operations, including the technical aspects of resources and reserves.

Ms Marwick described Geita Gold Mine as a flagship asset and said AngloGold Ashanti had remained committed to Tanzania despite legislative changes and challenges associated with COVID-19.

She said the company’s relationship with the government would provide an important stepping stone for its other exploration titles in Tanzania, noting that AngloGold Ashanti could expand more easily where it already had operations, infrastructure and a strong working relationship with the Government.

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ABSA BANK TANZANIA EXPANDS SUPPORT FOR YOUNG INNOVATORS THROUGH SECOND GIRLCODE HACKATHON

Zandile Mkwanazi

Absa Bank Tanzania in partnership with GirlCode, a South African based non-profit organization aiming to equip girls from underprivileged backgrounds with the skills and resources they need to thrive in the technology industry, have announced the return of the GirlCode Tanzania Hackathon for its second year, following a remarkable milestone in 2025 when the Tanzania team walked away with the Pan-African Grand Prize to the value of $5,000.

The GirlCode Hackathon is part of GirlCode’s wider Pan-African initiative to empower young women with practical technology skills, mentorship, and opportunities to build solutions that respond to real challenges in their communities. The return of the Tanzania edition marks an important step in strengthening the country’s pipeline of female tech talent and building on the success achieved by last year’s participants.

Tanzania’s 2025 win demonstrated the power of investing in young women as innovators, builders, and problem-solvers. Their achievement not only placed Tanzania on the Pan-African GirlCode Hackathon map, but also served as inspiration for more young women across the country to see themselves as part of Africa’s growing digital economy.

“At GirlCode, we are incredibly proud of what the Tanzania team achieved last year,” said Zandile Mkwanazi, CEO of GirlCode. “Winning the Pan-African Grand Prize showed the depth of talent, creativity, and potential that exists among young women in Tanzania. As we return for the second year, our goal is to build on that momentum and give even more young women the opportunity to develop their skills, work in teams, and create technology-driven solutions that can have real impact.”

This year’s hackathon will bring together female students, graduates, aspiring developers, and young innovators to collaborate in teams, receive mentorship, and present their solutions to a panel of judges. Participants will be challenged to think critically, apply their technical skills, and develop innovative ideas that can contribute to the future of work, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation.

The hackathon also creates an important platform for young women to gain exposure to the technology industry, connect with peers and mentors, and build confidence in their ability to pursue careers and opportunities in tech. For many participants, the experience serves as a stepping stone into internships, employment, entrepreneurship, and continued learning.

Oscar Mwamfwagasi

Speaking about the significance of the initiative, Absa Bank Tanzania’s Chief Operating Officer, Oscar Mwamfwagasi said: “What makes this year's Hackathon especially valuable is the active participation of SME founders, who bring practical business experiences and real-world challenges into the programme. Their involvement enriches the learning journey for participants while opening doors for startups to showcase their ideas, receive guidance from industry experts, and build connections that can accelerate their growth. Initiatives like this are essential in fostering innovation, empowering entrepreneurs, and creating a more inclusive digital ecosystem that supports Africa's continued development."

As the GirlCode Hackathon continues to grow across Africa, Tanzania’s story stands out as a powerful example of what becomes possible when young women are given access to the right platforms, resources, and networks. The 2025 Pan-African win has set a strong foundation, and this year’s edition aims to inspire the next generation of Tanzanian women in technology to go even further.

GirlCode invites young women in Tanzania, partners, mentors, and members of the technology ecosystem to support this year’s hackathon and help build a more inclusive digital future for Africa.

Date: 26-27 September 2026

Application link: https://www.girlcode.co.za/hackathon-2026

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DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN BANKING: A GAME CHANGER THAT MISSES A STEP

Digital Transformation in Banking: A Game Changer That Misses a Step

By Nicky Mlelwa, Head of Application Management, Absa Bank Tanzania - Digital transformation has fundamentally changed the face of banking. What was once an industry defined by queues, paperwork, and branch visits is now powered by speed, convenience, and experiences that fit seamlessly into customers’ daily lives. Through automation, artificial intelligence, real-time data, and modern technologies, banks are delivering services faster and more intelligently than ever before.

Today, customers can open accounts, receive instant loan decisions, make payments in seconds, and receive personalized financial guidance, all from the palm of their hand. Services that once took days or even weeks can now happen in instantly. Features such as straight-through processing, real-time payments, digital lending, and open banking have moved from innovation to expectation, becoming part of what customers simply assume modern banking should provide.

But the real transformation goes beyond technology. It is about changing the relationship between banks and their customers. Banking is no longer just a place to store money or process transactions. Instead, it has become a trusted companion that supports customers throughout their financial journeys. Whether paying bills, sending money, accessing credit, saving for the future, or investing, customers can manage their finances anytime, anywhere, without being limited by branch locations or operating hours.

Behind these seamless experiences lies a powerful digital foundation. Banks have adopted technologies that make them faster, more flexible, and better equipped to respond to changing customer needs. Microservices and APIs allow complex banking systems to be broken into smaller, independent building blocks that are easier to improve and connect. Cloud computing provides on-demand computing power, enabling banks to innovate quickly without the constraints of traditional infrastructure. Artificial intelligence and machine learning help banks understand customer behaviors, anticipate needs, and deliver highly personalized solutions. Meanwhile, blockchain technology is strengthening trust by introducing greater transparency and security into financial transactions.

Together, these innovations are creating a new era of banking, one that is more connected, intelligent, and customer-centric. The banks that embrace this transformation are not simply digitizing existing services. They are reimagining what banking can be, creating experiences that are effortless, relevant, and available whenever customers need them. In a world where expectations continue to evolve, digital transformation is no longer just a competitive advantage. It is the foundation for future growth, innovation, and lasting customer relationships.

However, as much as I celebrate the remarkable strides banks have made in digitizing their offerings, there remains a critical gap - one that often goes unnoticed yet significantly impacts the customer experience. This gap lies in the lack of seamless digital complaint handling mechanisms within many digital banking solutions.

Digital customers expect digital service - not just when everything works perfectly, but also when something goes wrong. A customer who opens an account online, applies for a loan through a mobile app, or completes a transaction digitally naturally expects to resolve any issues through the same digital channels. Traditional avenues such as call centers or branch visits no longer resonate with the expectations of a digitally empowered customer base.

In fact, the expectation goes even further. Today’s digital customers anticipate systems that are intelligent enough to detect failures proactively and resolve them before the customer even raises a complaint. When this does not happen, and customers are forced to navigate fragmented support systems, the experience becomes frustrating. The inability to lodge a complaint easily or receive swift digital resolution leaves customers feeling unheard and undervalued.

This disconnect undermines the very promise of digital transformation. Despite offering cutting-edge services, banks risk losing customer trust and loyalty if the support experience does not match the simplicity and efficiency of the front-end journey. Lost voices in fragmented complaint systems translate into dissatisfaction, reduced engagement, and ultimately, negative impacts on revenue and brand perception.

The path forward is clear: banks must embrace a truly end-to-end digital journey - one that does not end at service delivery but extends seamlessly into customer support. Digital transformation should not only focus on enabling transactions but also on closing the feedback loop in real time.

This requires embedding complaint handling directly into the digital architecture of banking solutions. It means building systems that can capture issues instantly, track them transparently, and resolve them efficiently - without requiring customers to step off their digital experience. Every touchpoint, from initiation to resolution, must be designed with the same level of simplicity, speed, and intelligence.

An effective digital complaint management system should include automated detection of anomalies, real-time notifications, self-service resolution options, and, where necessary, swift escalation pathways - all accessible through digital channels. More importantly, it should provide customers with visibility and assurance that their concerns are being addressed.

In a market where customer expectations are continuously evolving, differentiation will no longer be driven solely by the sophistication of products but by the quality of experiences. Banks that succeed will be those that listen as well as they innovate - those that not only digitize services but also humanize the digital journey through responsiveness and empathy.

Ultimately, a truly transformed bank is one that ensures every interaction is digital, every complaint is resolved swiftly, and every customer feels heard. This is where trust is built, loyalty is strengthened, and long-term competitive advantage is secured.

Because in the end, a delighted customer is not just a satisfied user who is likely to spend more - it is an enduring source of value.

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ABSA BANK TANZANIA SHOWCASES INNOVATIVE BANKING SOLUTIONS AT NANE NANE 2026

Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Daniel Chongolo (centre), receives an explanation about various banking services offered by Absa Bank Tanzania during his visit to the bank’s pavilion at the 32nd International Nane Nane Farmers’ Exhibition, which concluded yesterday at the Dr. John Samuel Malecela Grounds in Dodoma Region.

Absa Bank Tanzania’s Head of Customer Network, Ms. Irene Mwilongo Msungu (second left), explains the banking services offered by the bank to a Dodoma resident, Mr. Pius Killo, during his visit to the bank’s pavilion at the 32nd International Nane Nane Farmers’ Exhibition, which concluded yesterday at the Dr. John Samuel Malecela Grounds in Dodoma Region. On the left is the bank’s Dodoma Regional Branch Manager, Mr. Deogratias Luena, while third left is Absa Bank Tanzania’s Manager Citizenship and Events, Ms. Abigail Lukuvi.

Absa Bank Tanzania’s Dodoma Regional Branch Manager, Mr. Deogratias Luena (centre), explains the banking services offered by the bank to some students who visited the bank’s pavilion during the 32nd International Nane Nane Farmers’ Exhibition, which concluded yesterday at the Dr. John Samuel Malecela Grounds in Dodoma Region.

Absa Bank Tanzania Dodoma Branch employee, Mr. Emmanuel Basharasha, explains the banking services offered by the bank to some visitors at the bank’s pavilion during the 32nd International Nane Nane Farmers’ Exhibition held at the Dr. John Samuel Malecela Grounds in Dodoma Region yesterday.

Absa Bank Tanzania Dodoma Branch Sales Officer, Mr. Gabriel Mlaga (right), takes a photograph of a customer as part of the process of opening a new account during the customer’s visit to the bank’s pavilion at the 32nd International Nane Nane Farmers’ Exhibition held at the Dr. John Samuel Malecela Grounds in Dodoma Region yesterday.

Absa Bank Tanzania’s Head of Customer Network, Ms. Irene Mwilongo Msungu (second right), explains the banking services and products offered by the bank to Research Director from the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB), Dr. John Joseph (second left), during his visit to the bank’s pavilion at the 32nd International Nane Nane Farmers’ Exhibition, which concluded yesterday at the Dr. John Samuel Malecela Grounds in Dodoma Region.

Absa Bank Tanzania’s Head of Customer Network, Ms. Irene Mwilongo Msungu (centre), the bank’s Manager for Citizenship and Events, Ms. Abigail Lukuvi (second left), and some employees from Absa Bank Dodoma Branch pose for a group photograph at the bank’s pavilion during the 32nd International Nane Nane Farmers’ Exhibition held at the Dr. John Samuel Malecela Grounds in Dodoma Region. (Photos: Mgongo Media)

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ABSA BANK TANZANIA LAUNCHES “ABSA LIPA SASA” TO ACCELERATE DIGITAL PAYMENTS AND FINANCIAL INCLUSION

Absa Bank Tanzania's Head of Commercial, Victor Nchimbi (fifth left), Marketing and Communications Manager, Beda Biswalo (fourth left), and Product and Channels Manager, Devroda Kagusa (third right), together with other bank employees, launches the Absa Lipa Sasa payment solution during a press conference in Dar es Salaam today. Through Absa Lipa Sasa, customers can make payments from any bank or mobile phone network using a QR Code, making digital payments simpler and more convenient. (Photo: Mgongo Media)

Absa Bank Tanzania has officially launched Absa Lipa Sasa, its TanQR-powered payment solution designed to provide businesses and consumers with a fast, secure and interoperable digital payment experience. Built on Tanzania's national QR code standard under the guidance of the Bank of Tanzania, Absa Lipa Sasa enables merchants to accept payments from multiple banks and mobile wallets using a single QR code, simplifying transactions while reducing operational costs.

Speaking at the launch event, Victor Nchimbi, Head of Commercial Banking at Absa Bank Tanzania, said: "Absa Lipa Sasa is designed to make payments easier, faster and more convenient for businesses and their customers. With a single QR code, merchants can accept payments from customers across multiple banks and mobile wallets, eliminating the need for multiple devices or payment solutions. This reduces the cost and complexity of doing business while enabling faster transaction processing, improved record-keeping and enhanced security. For customers, it provides a seamless and reliable payment experience that supports the growing adoption of digital payments across Tanzania."

The launch aligns with the Government of Tanzania's broader agenda to expand financial inclusion and accelerate the digitisation of the economy. By leveraging TanQR interoperability, Absa Lipa Sasa enables merchants to accept digital payments through a single platform, removing the need for multiple payment systems or devices.

Further highlighting the solution's benefits, Nchimbi said the single QR Code accepts payments from various banks and mobile money operators, while transaction confirmations are received instantly.

He added that the solution reduces dependence on cash, increases transparency in payment transactions and lowers the cost of accepting payments, particularly for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

"The solution is designed to serve small, medium and large businesses, as well as informal sector merchants seeking a secure, simple and efficient way to receive payments," he added.

Absa Lipa Sasa supports micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), informal traders and larger businesses seeking efficient, secure and convenient payment solutions.

Commenting on the significance of the launch, Beda Biswalo, Marketing & Communications Manager at Absa Bank Tanzania, said: "At Absa, we believe that 'Your Story Matters' because every customer, entrepreneur and business has ambitions worth supporting. Absa Lipa Sasa reflects our commitment to helping our customers grow through simple, secure and accessible payment solutions that respond to their everyday needs. This is how we bring our purpose, 'Empowering Africa's tomorrow, together... one story at a time,' to life, creating meaningful impact while advancing financial inclusion and digital transformation across Tanzania."

Through Absa Lipa Sasa, merchants can expand their customer reach, reduce cash-handling risks and build digital transaction histories that may enhance access to future financial services.

Absa Bank Tanzania's Head of Commercial, Victor Nchimbi (centre), Marketing and Communications Manager, Beda Biswalo (left), and Product and Channels Manager, Devroda Kagusa, demonstrate a mobile payment using the Absa Lipa Sasa payment solution during its launch in Dar es Salaam today. Through Absa Lipa Sasa, customers can make payments from any bank or mobile phone network using a QR Code, making digital payments simpler and more convenient.

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ABSA BANK TANZANIA AND KNAUF GYPSUM TANZANIA SIGN MOU TO LAUNCH DISTRIBUTOR FINANCING PROGRAMME

Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser (right), and Knauf Gypsum Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Christoforos Stamoulakatos, sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at establishing a Distributor Financing Programme in Dar es Salaam today. The initiative seeks to enable Knauf distributors to access business capital more easily, strengthen the supply chain, and drive growth in the construction sector in Tanzania. Left is Knauf Legal Counsel, External & Government Affairs Manager, Ms. Flora Erasto and Absa Bank Tanzania Company Secretary, Mr. Desmond Malyi.

Absa Bank Tanzania and Knauf Gypsum Tanzania today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a Distributor Financing Programme aimed at strengthening Knauf's distribution network and improving access to financing for its distributors across Tanzania.

The partnership marks a significant milestone in the long-standing relationship between the two organizations and reinforces their shared commitment to supporting business growth, strengthening supply chains and driving sustainable economic development.

Under the programme, Absa Bank Tanzania will provide tailored financing solutions to eligible distributors within Knauf's network, subject to the Bank's credit assessment process and approved exposure limits. The initiative is expected to onboard approximately 30 to 40 distributors into the Bank's portfolio, providing them with enhanced access to working capital and business financing solutions.

Speaking during the signing ceremony held at Knauf Gypsum Tanzania's headquarters in Dar es Salaam, Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Obedi Laiser, said: "This partnership demonstrates the power of ecosystem banking in supporting business growth and creating shared value. By extending financing solutions to distributors within Knauf's network, we are helping businesses build capacity, improve efficiency and seize growth opportunities. As Absa, we remain committed to empowering Africa's tomorrow, together, one story at a time – this is the purpose of our existence."

The Distributor Financing Programme will enable participating distributors to access funding solutions that support inventory purchases, working capital requirements and business expansion, helping strengthen the overall distribution ecosystem while improving product availability in the market.

Christoforos Stamoulakatos, the Managing Director of Knauf Gypsum Tanzania, welcomed the partnership and emphasized its importance in supporting the company's distribution network.

"Our distributors are a critical part of our growth journey and our ability to serve customers across Tanzania. Through this partnership with Absa Bank Tanzania, we are creating opportunities for our distributors to access financial solutions that can support their growth and strengthen their ability to meet increasing market demand."

The collaboration aligns with Absa Bank Tanzania's strategic focus on ecosystem banking, which seeks to provide integrated financial solutions that support entire value chains and unlock growth opportunities for businesses of all sizes.

As one of Absa Bank Tanzania's key Corporate Banking clients and a strategic partner within Corporate and Institutional Banking (CIB), Knauf continues to play an important role in the country's construction sector. The new financing programme is expected to deepen collaboration between the two organizations while creating additional opportunities for engagement across Knauf's operations and value chain.

The signing ceremony was attended by senior executives from both organizations, distributors, business partners and members of the media.

Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser (right), and Knauf Gypsum Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Christoforos Stamoulakatos, exchange copies of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the signing ceremony in Dar esSalaam today. The agreement aims to establish a Distributor Financing Programme designed to enable Knauf distributors to access business capital more easily, strengthen the supply chain, and support the growth of Tanzania’s construction sector. Left is Knauf Legal Counsel, External & Government Affairs Manager, Ms. Flora Erasto and Absa Bank Tanzania Company Secretary, Mr. Desmond Malyi.

Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser, and Knauf Gypsum Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Christoforos Stamoulakatos, pose for a group photograph with staff members from both organisations during the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a Distributor Financing Programme. The initiative aims to provide Knauf distributors with easier access to working capital, strengthen the supply chain, and accelerate the growth of Tanzania's construction sector. The signing ceremony was held in Dar es Salaam today. (Photos: Mgongo Media)

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ABSA BANK AND TCB STRENGTHEN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP RELATIONS

Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser (left), greets Tanzania Commercial Bank Managing Director, Mr. Adam Mihayo, shortly after Mr. Laiser and his delegation arrived at TCB’s offices in Dar es Salaam yesterday. The courtesy visit was aimed at strengthening strategic partnership relations between the two institutions and exploring opportunities for collaboration.

The leadership teams of Absa Bank Tanzania, led by Managing Director Obedi Laiser, and Tanzania Commercial Bank (TCB), led by Managing Director Adam Mihayo, met at TCB’s headquarters in Dar es Salaam yesterday for a strategic engagement focused on strengthening the relationship between the two institutions and exploring opportunities for collaboration.

The meeting brought together the strengths of Tanzania’s state-owned commercial bank, TCB, and Absa Bank Tanzania, part of Africa’s leading pan-African banking group. Discussions centered on identifying practical areas where both institutions can work together to create greater value for customers, businesses, and the wider economy.

The engagement reaffirmed Absa’s shared commitment to supporting Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050 (Dira 2050) by leveraging complementary capabilities, fostering innovation, and advancing partnerships that contribute to sustainable economic growth and financial sector development.

Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser (left), listens to Tanzania Commercial Bank Managing Director, Mr. Adam Mihayo, during a courtesy visit at TCB’s offices in Dar es Salaam yesterday. The meeting focused on strengthening strategic partnership relations between the two institutions and identifying opportunities for collaboration.

Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser (second left), engages in discussion with Tanzania Commercial Bank Managing Director, Mr. Adam Mihayo (left), alongside several bank officials, during a courtesy visit at TCB’s offices in Dar es Salaam yesterday. The dialogue centered on strengthening strategic partnership relations between the two institutions and exploring business opportunities.

Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser (fourth left), Tanzania Commercial Bank Managing Director, Mr. Adam Mihayo (fifth left), and senior officials from both banks pose for a group photo following a courtesy visit at TCB’s offices in Dar es Salaam yesterday. The engagement was aimed at strengthening strategic partnership relations between the two institutions and exploring opportunities for collaboration.

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ABSA BANK TANZANIA STRENGTHENS PARTNERSHIPS WITH CORPORATE CLIENTS THROUGH NETWORKING BREAKFAST

Absa Group Chief Executive Officer for Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB), Mr. Zaid Moola (second right), engages with some of Absa Bank Tanzania’s Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) clients during a customer networking event held in Dar es Salaam today. The event was organized by Absa Bank Tanzania as part of its ongoing commitment to strengthening business relationships with its corporate clients. It also brought together the clients and senior CIB executives from Absa Group, who are in Tanzania on a working visit.

Absa Bank Tanzania Strengthens Partnerships with Corporate Clients Through Networking Breakfast

In a continued effort to foster collaboration and recognize the invaluable contribution of its Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) clients, Absa Bank Tanzania hosted a breakfast networking session today in Dar es Salaam. The event provided a dynamic platform for open dialogue on growth opportunities, emerging market trends, and the evolving future of business in Tanzania.

During the meeting, Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser, highlighted the diverse range of services the bank offers locally, with a particular focus on solutions tailored to meet the needs of corporate clients.

The session also marked the introduction of senior executives from Absa Group’s Corporate and Investment Banking division, led by Chief Executive Officer Mr. Zaid Moola, who engaged directly with clients during their working visit to Tanzania.

This visit by the Absa Group CIB leadership underscores the bank’s unwavering commitment to strengthening client relationships and delivering innovative solutions that enable businesses to thrive. It reflects Absa’s broader purpose of Empowering Africa’s tomorrow, together… one story at a time.

Absa Group Chief Executive Officer for Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB), Mr. Zaid Moola, delivered his remarks today during the CIB customer networking event held in Dar es Salaam. Organized by Absa Bank Tanzania, the event underscored the bank’s ongoing commitment to strengthening business relationships with its corporate clients. It also brought together clients and senior CIB executives from Absa Group, who are currently in Tanzania on a working visit.

Absa Group Chief Executive Officer for Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB), Mr. Zaid Moola (centre), Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser (right), and Managing Executive for Corporate and Investment Banking – Africa, Mr. Sola Adegbesan, share a light moment during a corporate clients' networking event hosted by Absa Bank Tanzania in Dar es Salaam today. The event formed part of the bank's ongoing efforts to strengthen business relationships with its corporate clients and provided an opportunity for them to engage with senior CIB executives from Absa Group, who are in Tanzania on a working visit.

Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser (right), listens to the Chief Executive Officer of ASA Microfinance, Mr. Muhammed Shah Newaj, during an event organized by the bank for its Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) clients in Dar es Salaam today, as part of efforts to strengthen their business relationships. The meeting also brought together the clients and senior CIB executives from Absa Group, who are in the country on a working visit.

Absa Group Chief Executive Officer for Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB), Mr. Zaid Moola, together with some senior executives from Absa Group, Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser, along with some employees and CIB clients, posed for a group photo after the conclusion of the meeting in Dar es Salaam today.

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