Absa Bank Tanzania injects TZS 15m bankroll war against Covid 19 pandemic

 

Absa Bank Tanzania Head of Marketing and Corporate Relations, Aron Luhanga (right) hands over a dummy check for Tsh 15m to EngenderHealth Country Representative, Prudence Masako, donated by Absa to the charity for procurement of personal protective gear to shore up the fight against Covid 19 plague. The occasion was held in Dar es Salaam over the weekend. Looking on is Absa’s Acting Corporate Affairs Director, Nellyana Mmanyi.

EngenderHealth Country Representative, Prudence Masako (left), gives a vote of thanks after receiving a donation of Tsh 15m from Absa Bank Tanzania to finance purchase of personal protective equipment to buttress the fight against Covid 19. The hand-over was held in Dar es Salaam over the weekend. The grant was handed by ABT Head of Marketing and Corporate Relations, Aron Luhanga (second left).

Absa Bank Tanzania Head of Marketing and Corporate Relations, Aron Luhanga (second left), addresses the press during the bank’s donation of Tsh 15m to EngenderHealth for acquisition of protective kits to shield frontline workers in the fight against covid-19. The brief occasion was held in Dar es Salaam over the weekend. Left is EngenderHealth Country Representative, Prudence Masako.

Absa Bank Tanzania Head of Global Markets Sales, Irene Rwegalulira (right), talks to attendees during the hand-over ceremony of some Tsh 15m granted by the bank to EngenderHealth to help the charity purchase protective gear destined for front-line workers in fight against the covid-19 scourge. The brief occasion was held in Dar es Salaam over the weekend.

EngenderHealth Senior Manager, Programs and Partnership EngenderHealth Yisambi Mwanshemile (right), talks to journalists and invited guests during the hand-over ceremony for Tsh 15 million the bank granted the charity for procurement of personal protective equipment intended for frontline workers in the fight against Covid-19 outbreak. The brief occasion was held in Dar es Salaam over the weekend.

By Our Reporter, Dar es Salaam | Absa Bank Tanzania has last weekend in Dar es Salaam, donated TZS 15m to EngenderHealth in support of procuring Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to boost the on-going fight against the Covid 19 pandemic.

Speaking about the donation, the bank’s Head of Marketing and Corporate Relations, Mr. Aron Luhanga, said, “We realize that this has been the most difficult time for most of our communities and businesses whose financial means are being negatively affected. As such, being responsible financial partners, we are happy to support our communities through Engender Health in order to continue bringing their possibilities to life despite the present challenges.”

Receiving the financial support, EngenderHealth Country Representative, Prudence Masako, said the NGO had been working in Tanzania for over 30 years, in partnership with the government and private sector to strengthen capacity of the health system to provide Reproductive Health services, providing technical and logistic assistance.

Said Masako: “Today, EngenderHealth is proud to partner with Absa to support PPE distribution to some of our supported health facilities in Dar es Salaam as part of Covid 19 response measures. Engenderhealth have worked with local government authorities to support our frontline workers to have the necessary equipment to ensure services are not interrupted. We will continue to support government in this area and work with other partners to mobilize resources for PPE procurement as part of Covid -19 response.”

The EngenderHealth representative added: “This is not the end of this partnership; I believe our two organizations will continue to work together in investing in health care and enable our front-line workers to continue to provide quality services even during this challenging time.”

The bank’s Acting Corporate Director, Ms. Nellyana Mmanyi said: “Our passion for our communities is as strong as ever and our commitment to serve and protect them is unwavering. Therefore, we continue to invest in our customers’ wellbeing as we adhere with the guidelines and protocols set out by the Ministry of Health in the wake of Covid 19 pandemic. EngenderHealth being our client we keep on investing in our business relationship while ensuring we play a role in the society we serve”.

Ms Mmanyi added that Absa, “maintained strong relationship with organizations such as EngenderHealth with purpose of bringing change to the community and providing support to the ongoing efforts of the government plays in developing the country at all levels.”

Summing up the bank’s social investment endevour, Mr. Luhanga noted: “Absa is a key role player in advancing several sectors in the country some of them being education, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, environment and social wellbeing. The bank ensures that every society investment is aligned with strengthening our relationship with the community, the organization we work with and the government.”

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STRATEGIS INSURANCE NOW OPEN IN ARUSHA

 

Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority Director for Market Development and Research, Zakaria Muyengi (from left), Dr. Flora Minja (Strategis CEO-Medical Division) and Strategis CEO (Non Medical Division), Jabir Kigoda, opens a curtain to signify the launch of the company's Arusha sales point in Arusha at the weekend. Right is Strategis General Manager, Nirmal Sheth.

Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority Director for Market Development and Research, Zakaria Muyengi (Centre), poses for a memento photograph with from left; Dennis Nombo (Head of Sales and Marketing), Dr Malav Manek (Chief Operating Officer) Dr. Flora Minja (Strategis CEO-Medical Division), Strategis CEO (Non Medical Division), Jabir Kigoda and Strategis General Manager, Nirmal Sheth after the launch.

By Our Reporter, Arusha | STRATEGIS Insurance, which was among the first private insurance companies to be registered and licensed by TIRA has officially launched its office in Arusha. The office is located at Summit Center, Ground floor along Sokoine road. The company which is currently the second largest private insurer in the country has been operating for almost two decades and over.

Muyengi said: “It is only 15 per cent of Tanzanians who use insurance services, our strategy is that by the year 2030 we ensure 50 per cent of the population has access to insurance, and at the same time increase insurance literacy of the population from the current 30 per cent level to 80 per cent over the same term."

"The government on its part shall continue to set up a friendly environment to enable insurance companies to conduct business smoothly, we expect insurers to reciprocate this promise by clearing claims lodged by customers promptly. I also call upon insurers to introduce in the market products that augur with typical needs of Tanzanians, the likes of small-scale miners, livestock keepers and farmers," Mr. Muyengi added.

He also commended and requested Strategis Insurance to keep up the good work in paying out claims in a timely manner. Mr. Muyengi said: We at TIRA are happy with the way Strategis are doing business, they are solvent and pays claims on time

The establishment of this Sales Point is part of the Strategic decision that has been made by the company to enhance the effectiveness and impact of its operation in Arusha and the entire Northern zone

In the just ended year, Strategis consolidated its growth and proudly recorded a topline increase of about 20% to become the 2nd largest private insurer in the Tanzanian insurance industry by market share. While the Company continues to be the leader in private medical insurance it has also grown the non-medical insurance book by 40% in 2020. This significant growth is attributed not only to reforms undertaken by the company to strengthen its position, but also to the support from various key stakeholders

Speaking at the event, Strategis Insurance Chief Executive Officer (Medical Division) who is also acting Group CEO, Dr. Flora Minja said that the company was focusing on growing its business portfolio, opening new lines of sevice and deploying technology and innovation in the service delivery .

"We thus strive to stay abreast with new technological advances that not only create improved operational efficiency and accuracy in terms of customer information management but also incorporate technological developments happening in the industry and allow interaction with various stakeholders in real time."

The company is committed to universal health insurance coverage agenda, and that it supports the government and industry in the national goal of ensuring at least 50 per cent of the adult population use insurance services by 2030.

“Within this context, the company intends to expand its geographical presence , and the Arusha Sales point is one among initiatives anticipated to increase the company’s footprint allowing it to reach demographics,” Dr. Flora added.

Earlier speaking at the event, Strategis CEO (Non-Medical Division), Jabir Kigoda, said the company was poised to deliver top-class services in Arusha region, a move that would be beefed up by introduction of various products targeting the tourism industry and other sectors of the economy, including manufacturing and other productive sectors.

“The launch of the Arusha Sales point is a manifestation of how we are determined to serve the insurance market and thereby support the government in increasing insurance penetration and awareness in the country. Today’s launch is not just another launch of the office in Arusha. To us the launch of this office shows a commitment that we have in servicing better our clients who matters most to us."

"We believe the presence of this office in this region will bring a healthy competition to the market and assist in reaching untapped socio-economic sectors such as Tourism, Agriculture, Trade and manufacturing. We are fully confident that our presence in Arusha will be of great benefit to the entire region and will grow to become one of the best in the region. We will always strive to build and maintain reliable and secure partnerships through first class underwriting, risk advisory service and fast settlement of claims.’’ said Mr. Kigoda

The insurance sector in the country has been growing at the rate of 17.7 per cent per year, with insurance revenue shooting from Tsh 814.5bn from 2019 to 2020, up from Tsh 691bn registered the previous year. Over the same period TIRA managed to register 31 insurance companies, 100 brokers, and 780 agents.

Strategis Insurance is 100% locally owned and has a 100% local staff compliment. A part from the recently launched Sales Point, the company has two other Sales Points, one in Zanzibar located at Muzammil Center, Office No.14 along Mlandege Street and another one in Kisutu- City Center near Azania Bank in Dar es Salaam.

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Facebook launches Blood Donations feature in Tanzania

 

Dar es Salaam, 24th May 2021 | Today, Facebook has launched its Blood Donations feature in Tanzania in partnership with the Tanzania National Blood Service (NBTS). The feature will help the NBTS connect its seven blood donation centres in Tanzania to blood donors across the country.

Facebook’s blood donation feature aims to encourage people to donate blood and will enable anyone in Tanzania between 18-65 years old to sign up to receive notifications about blood donation opportunities nearby. The feature also allows people to invite their friends and family to sign up to receive updates about giving blood.

Since its founding in 2004, the Tanzania NBTS has evolved from a hospital-based system relying on more than 80% of family replacement donors, to a coordinated centralized system based on voluntary non-remunerated blood donors. According to NBTS, youth and students in Tanzania are the most important group of blood donors because they account for 80% of the blood supply. The launch of this blood donation feature will enable Facebook users to more easily connect with blood donation centers across Tanzania.

Commenting on the launch, Facebook's Head of Public Policy for East & Horn of Africa Mercy Ndegwa said, “We are excited to launch our blood donation feature to help the Tanzania National Blood Transfusion Service address the blood needs in Tanzania. Facebook is committed to building safe and supportive communities which is why we’ve launched this feature in collaboration with Tanzania NBTS to serve the needs of the Tanzania blood donation ecosystem.”

The Blood Donations feature on Facebook consists of two key components:

• Option to sign up to receive notifications — Facebook users can sign up to receive notifications about nearby opportunities to give blood.

• Blood banks inspire potential donors - Trusted blood donation centers working with Tanzania National Blood Transfusion Services who need to find donors can create page posts that inform donors what they need and include a call to action button that allows donors to contact them directly from the post.

Since launching the Blood Donations feature in October 2017, over 85 million people have signed up to receive notifications from nearby blood banks about opportunities to donate in more than 30 countries. Tanzania is the 13th country in Africa to launch the feature.

How It Works

People between the ages of 18 - 65 in Tanzania can sign up to be a blood donor on Facebook by going to Blood Donations in the About section of their profile or access it through this link: facebook.com/donateblood

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Kampuni ya Bima ya Strategis yafungua Ofisi Arusha

 

Mkurugenzi wa Masoko na Utafiti wa Mamlaka ya Usimamizi wa Shughuli za Bima nchini (TIRA), Zakaria Muyengi (kutoka kushoto), Ofisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Kampuni ya Bima ya Strategis (kitengo cha Bima za afya), Dk. Flora Minja na Ofisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Strategis (Bima za maji na ajali), Jabir Kigoda wakifungua pazia kuashiria uzinduzi wa ofisi mpya ya kampuni hiyo jijini Arusha jana. kulia ni Meneja Mkuu wa Strategis, Nirmal Sheth.

Ofisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Strategis (Bima za mali na ajali), Jabir Kigoda, akizungumza katika hafle hiyo mjini Arusha jana.

Ofisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Strategis (kitengo cha Bima za afya), Dr. Flora Minja, akihutubia wakati wa uzinduzi huo mjini Arusha jana.

Mkurugenzi wa Maendeleo ya Masoko na Utafiti wa Mamlaka ya Usimamizi wa Shughuli za Bima nchini (TIRA), Zakaria Muyengi (katikati), akipozi kwa picha na kutoka kushoto; Mkuu wa Masoko na Mauzo wa Strategis, Dennis Nombo, Ofisa Mwwndeshaji Mkuu wa Kampuni hiyo, Dr. Malav Manek, Ofisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Kampuni ya Bima ya Strategis (kitengo cha Bima za afya), Dk. Flora Minja, Ofisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Strategis (Bima za Mali na ajali), Jabir Kigoda na Meneja wao Mkuu, Nirmal Sheth muda mfupi baada ya uzinduzi rasmi.

Na Mwandishi Wetu, Arusha | KAMPUNI ya Bima ya Strategis, ikiwa ni kampuni binafsi ya bima ya pili kwa ukubwa nchini na moja ya makampuni ya mwanzo kusajiliwa na Mamlaka ya Usimamizi wa shughuli za Bima Tanzania (TIRA) na ambayo imekuwa ikifanya biashara kwa zaidi ya miongo miwili, imezindua rasmi ofisi yake jijini Arusha.

Akiongea katika uzinduzi huo mwishoni mwa wiki, Mkurugenzi wa Uendelezaji wa Masoko na Utafiti wa TIRA ambaye alikuwa ni mgeni rasmi, Zacharia Muyengi, alisema kuingia kwa kampuni hiyo jijini Arusha kutanufaisha wakazi wa jiji hilo na maeneo jirani na hivyo kuchangia kuongeza idadi ya Watanzania wanaotumia huduma za bima kutoka kiwango cha sasa cha asilimia 15.

“Ni asilimia 15 tu ya Watanzania ndio wanatumiahuduma za bima, mkakati wetu ni kuhakikisha kuwa ifikapo mwaka 2030 asilimia 50 ya watu watakuwa wanatumia huduma hizo,, na wakati huo huop kiwango cha uelewa wa maswala ya bima kitaongezeka kutoka asilimia 30 ya sasa hadi asilimia 80," alisema Muyengi.

“Serikali itaendelea kuweka mazingira rafiki kuwezesha makampuni ya bima kuendesha shughuli zao kwa ufanisi, tunategemea watoaji wa huduma hizo nao wataitikia wito wa serikali kwa kulipa wateja wao kwa muda muafaka. Nachukua fursa hii kutoa wito kwa makampuni ya bimakuja na bidhaa zinazokizi mahitaji ya Watanzania, kama vile wavuvi, wafugaji na wakulima.”

Vilevile aliipongeza kampuni ya Strategia na kuiomba kuendeleza utamaduni wakewea kulipa madai ya wateja wake kwa muda unaofaa. Alisema: "Sisi TIRA kwa upande wetu tunafurahishwa na namna kampuni ya Strategis inavyofanya kazi, wana uwezo wa kifedha wa kutosha na wanafanya malipo kwa haraka”

Uzinduzi wa ofisi hii ya mauzo ni sehemu ya uamuzi wa kimkakati wa Strategis kuboresha ufanisi na manufaa ya shughuli zake katika jiji la Arusha na kanda nzima ya kaskazini.

Katika mwaka uliopita, kampuni ya Strategis iliimarisha ukuaji wake na kukua kwa asilimia 20 hadi kushika nafasi ya kampuni binafsi ya bima ya pilli kwa ukubwa nchini Tanzania kwa kuzingatia umiliki wa soko. Wakati kampuni hii inaendeela kuongoza katika bima ya afya kwa sekta ya binafsi, shughuli zake zisizo za afya zimekua kwa asilimia 40 kwa mwaka 2020. Ukuaji huu unatokana na marekebisho ya kimuundo yaliyofanywa na kampuni hiyo kuimarisha nafasi yake katika sekta ya bima, pamoja na kuungwa mkono na wadau mbalimbali.

Akizungumza katika uzinduzi huo, Ofisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Strategis (Kitengo cha Tiba) ambaye pia ni Kaimu Ofisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Kundi la Makampuni la Strategis, Dr. Flora Minja,alisema kuwa kampuni hiyo ilikuwa inatilia mkazo katika kukuza wigo wa huduma zake, kuzindua huduma mpya na kutumia teknolojia na ubunifu katika utoaji wa huduma.

“Hivyo basi mkakati wetu ni kuhakikisha kuwa tunakwenda sambasamba na maendeleo ya teknolojia ambayo zinaongeza ufanisi na usahihi katika kutunza za taarifa za wateja, na tutahakikisha kuwa tunakwenda na wakatina maendeelo ya teknoloji yanayotokea kwenya sekta ya bima na kuwasiliana na wadau mbaliombali kwa muda muafaka.”

“Kampuni ya Strategis inaunga mkono ajenda ya huduma ya bima kwa wote, na inaunga mkono lengo la serikali na watoa huduma za bima lakuhakikisha kuwa ifikapomwaka 2030 angalau asilimia50 ya wananchi watakuwa wanatumia huduma za bima. Ili kufaniklisha hili,kampuni yetu inanui kupanua eneo lakelaklutoa huduma, na ofisi hii ya Arusha ni miongoni mwa mikakati ambayo inatarajiwa kuhakikisha kuwa tunafikia kila kikundi nchini,” Alisema Dr. Flora.

Awali akiongea katika uzinduzi huo, Ofisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Strategis (huduma zisizo za tiba), Jabir Kigoda, alisema kampuni hiyo imejizatiti kutoa huduma za kiwango cha juu kwa mkoa wa Arusha, mkakati ambao utaimarishwa na uzinduzi wa bidhaa zinazolenga sekta ya utalii, pamoja na sekta nyinginezo za uchumi kama viwanda na uzalishaji.

Uzinduzi wa ofisi yetu ya Arusha ni kiashirio cha namna gani tumejiandaa vyema kuhudumia soko labima na kunga mkono harakati za serikali za kuongeza uelewa na matumizi ya huduma za bima nchini,’ akisema Kigoda.

Aliongeza Kigoda: “Uzinduzi hu unaofanyika leo ni zaidi ya ufunguzi wa ofisi jijini Arusha. Kwetu sisi uzinduzi huu unaonyesha nia namna gani tupo makini kuhudumia wateja wetu, ambao tunawapa kipaumbele. Tunaamini uwepo wa ofisi hii utaleta ushindani wenye manufaa sokoni na kusaidia kufikisha huduma kwenye sekta zilizoachwa nyuma na huduma za bima kama utalii, kilimo bishara na viwanda."

“Tuna uhakika kuwa uwepo wetu hapa Arusha utakuwa na manufaa katika mkoa mzima na kwamba huduma zetu hapa zitakuwa na kuwa bora zaidi. Tutaendelea kujenga na kuimarisha ushirika thabiti kwa kutoa viwango vya juu vya malipo ya bima, huduma za ushauri wa majanga mbalimbali na kufupisha muda wa kulipa wateja”

Sekta ya bima nchini imekuwa ikikua kwa asilimia 17.7 kwa mwaka, huku mapato ya bima yakipanda hadi kufikia Tsh 814.5bn kwa kipindi cha mwaka wa 2019-2020, kutoka mapato ya Tsh 691bn mwaka uliotangulia. Vilevile katika kipindi hicho,TIRA imesajili makampuni ya bima 31, madalali 10 na mawakala 780.

Kampuni ya Strategis inamilikiwa asilimia 100 na wazawa na wafanyakazi wake asilimia 100 wanatoka nchini humu. Mbali na ofisi iliyozinduliwa Arusha, kampuni hii ina ofisi nyingine Zanzibar na Dar es Salam.

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VIONGOZI WA VYAMA VYA USHIRIKA TABORA WAISHUKURU BENKI YA NBC

 Mkuu wa Kitengo cha Wateja Wadogo wa Benki ya NBC, Nd Raymond Urassa akizungumza na viongozi wa vyama zaidi ya 200 vya ushirika (AMCOS) Mkoani Tabora wakati wa kongamano lilioandaliwa na benki hiyo lenye lengo la kuwapa mafunzo mbalimbali yakiwemo umuhimu wa huduma za bima, matumizi ya fedha za kigeni pamoja na elimu ya kuweka kumbukumbu za hesabu na matumizi sahihi ya mapato yao ili waweze kukopesheka kwa urahisi. Hafla hiyoimefanyika mkoani humo jana

Mkurugenzi wa Manispaa ya Tabora Bosco Ndunguru (wapilikushoto) akikabidhi pikipiki kwa Mwenyekiti wa chama cha msingi Solelansabo Mary James wakati wa kongamano lilioandaliwa na Benki ya NBC lenye lengo la kuwapa mafunzo wanachama na viongozi wa vyama mbali mbali vya ushirika Mkoani Tabora yakiwemo umuhimu wa huduma za bima, matumizi ya fedha za kigeni pamoja na elimu ya kuweka kumbukumbu za hesabu na matumizi sahihi ya mapato yao ili waweze kukopesheka kwa urahisi kushoto ni Mkuu wa Kitengo cha Wateja Wadogo wa Benki ya NBC, Raymond Urassa pamoja na Katibu wa Chama hicho. Hafla hiyoimefanyika mkoani humo jana

Afisa Mauzo wa Benki ya Taifa ya Biashara NBC Tawi la Tabora Nuru Rajabu (kulia), akisimamia zoezi la kusajiri majina kwa wanachama mbalimbali vya Ushirika (AMCOS) Mkoani Tabora wakati wa kongamano lilioandaliwa na benki hiyo lenye lengo la kuwapa mafunzo mbalimbali yakiwemo umuhimu wa huduma za bima, matumizi ya fedha za kigeni pamoja na elimu ya kuweka kumbukumbu za hesabu na matumizi sahihi ya mapato yao na huduma nyengine za kifedha ili waweze kukopesheka kwa urahisi. Hafla hiyoimefanyika mkoani humo jana

Viongozi mbalimbali wa vyama zaidi ya 200 vya ushirika (AMCOS) Mkoani Tabora wakifuatilia kwa umakini semina iliyoandaliwa na benki ya NBC lenye lengo la kuwapa mafunzo mbalimbali yakiwemo umuhimu wa huduma za bima, matumizi ya fedha za kigeni pamoja na elimu ya kuweka kumbukumbu za hesabu na matumizi sahihi ya mapato yao ili waweze kukopesheka kwa urahisi. Hafla hiyoimefanyika mkoani humo jana

Menejan Mahusiano Kitengo cha Bima wa Benki ya Taifa ya Biashara NBC Tawi la Tabora Abdul Farahan akitoa elimu juu ya matumizi sahihi ya bima wakati wa kongamano lilioandaliwa na benki hiyo lenye lengo la kuwapa mafunzo mbalimbali yakiwemo umuhimu wa huduma za bima, matumizi ya fedha za kigeni pamoja na elimu ya kuweka kumbukumbu za hesabu na matumizi sahihi ya mapato yao ili waweze kukopesheka kwa urahisi

 

Benki ya NBC kupitia huduma yake ya #NBCShambani inayowalenga wateja wanaojishughulisha na kilimo imeongoza semina ya mafunzo kwa viongozi wa vyama zaidi ya 200 vya ushirika (AMCOS) Mkoani Tabora kwa lengo la kuwapa mafunzo mbalimbali yakiwemo umuhimu wa huduma za bima, matumizi ya fedha za kigeni  pamoja na elimu ya kuweka kumbukumbu za hesabu na matumizi sahihi ya mapato yao ili waweze kukopesheka kwa urahisi. Hafla hiyo ilifunguliwa na Mkurugenzi wa Halmashauri ya Tabora, Nd Bosco Ndunguru na kuhudhuriwa na wadau mbali mbali akiwemo Mrajis Msaidizi wa Vyama vya Ushirika Mkoa wa Tabora, Nd Absalom Cheliga na wakulima wa zao la tumbaku kutoka wilaya za Tabora Mjini, Sikonge na Uyui.

 

Pamoja na kuendesha mafunzo hayo Benki ya NBC kupitia Meneja wa Wateja Wadogo, Nd Raymond Urassa walitoa zawadi ya pikipiki kwa Mwenyekiti wa Chama  Cha Msingi Solelansabo, Bi Mary James Merrick ili kumsaidia katika shughuli za kuendesha chama na kuwatembelea wakulima. Pamoja na zawadi ya pikipiki hiyo, Benki ya NBC pia ilitoa baiskeli tatu kwa wakulima kutoka kwa vyama vya msingi mbali mbali kama pongezi kwa juhudi za kupata mazao mengikwa msimu uliopita.

 

Akifungua kongamano hilo kwa niaba ya Mkuu wa Wilaya ya Tabora, Mkurugenzi wa Manispaa ya hiyo, Nd Bosco Ndunguru aliipongeza Benki ya NBC kwa kuwawezesha na kuwapa mikopo na huduma za kibenki zenye gharama nafuu wakulima wa  zao la tumbaku ambalo kwa kiasi kikubwa linalochangia pato la mkoa huo. Aidha alitoa rai kwa benki hiyo kuingia kwenye mazao mengine ili kufungua fursa zaidi kwa wakulima wa mazao mengine. “Ni fursa kubwa sana kwa mkulima mmoja mmoja na ambao wako kwenye vyama mkoani kwetu kwa Benki ya NBC kuwa kwenye sekta ya kilimo na wakulima wanatakiwa kuichamgamki waanze kuzalisha kibiashara.” Aliongeza Nd Bosco.

 

Kwa upande wake Mkuu wa Kitengo cha Wateja Wadogo wa Benki ya NBC, Bw Raymond Urassa alisema kwamba Benki ya NBC kupitia NBC Shambani imejipanga vizuri kuwahudumia wateja wake kupitia matawi yake nchi nzima wakulima wa mazao mbali mbali yakiwemo tumbaku, kahawa, parachichi, pamba na chai. 

 

Akiongelea huduma za kibenki kwa mkulima mmoja mmoja, Nd Urassa alisema kuwa mkulima anaweza kufungua akaunti bila kuwa na kianzio na kuendesha akaunti bila kuwa na makato ya kila mwezi. “Pamoja na fursa ya akaunti za shilingi na dola, akaunti za vyama vya msingi pia hazina makato lakini pia zina gharama ndogo za uendeshaji kupeleka vyama vya msingi kuendesha shughuli zake kwa gharama nafuu na kuongeza ufanisi.” 

 

Kwa upande wake mnufaika wa zawadi ya pikipiki na Mwenyekiti wa Chama Cha Msingi Solelansabo, Bi Mary James Merrick aliishukuru Benki ya NBC kwa zawadi hiyo na kusema kuwa itamsaidia katika kuendesha shuguli zake za chama kwa urahisi na ufanisi zaidi. Aidha alipongeza benki hiyo kwa kutoa huduma zilizo bora na mikopo yenye riba nafuu inayowawezesha wakulima kutimiza mahitaji yao ya pembejeo kwa wakati.

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Absa Bank Tanzania launches the first virtual branch engagement solution in the market

 

Absa Bank Tanzania Chief of Finance, Obedi Laiser (left), cuts a ribbon to inaugurate the bank’s first virtual branch engagement solution to be hosted on WhatSApp application. The brief event took place at Absa Mikocheni Branch in Dar es Salaam today. Watching (from right) are Absa Tanzania Head of Retail Banking, Oscar Mwamfwagasi and bank’s Head of Customer Experience, Samuel Mkuyu.

Absa Bank Tanzania Head of Retail Banking, Oscar Mwamfwagasi, addresses attendees during the launching ceremony.

Absa Bank Head of Customers Experience and Digital, Samuel Mkuyu, speaks during the launching ceremony.

Fasthub Solutions Business Manager, Hawa Mwakatundu, speaks at the launching event.

A cross-section of attendees fix their attention to the screen as Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Abdi Mohamed, speaks over teleconferencing facility.

Absa Mikocheni Branch Manager, Prisca Daudi, demonstrates how to use the just-launched Absa's virtual branch engagement solution in Dar es Salaam today.

Absa Bank Tanzania Chie of Finance, Obedi Laiser (left), the bank’s Head of Customer Experience, Samuel Mkuyu, and Absa Tanzania Head of Retail Oscar Mwamfwagasi, in buoyant mood during the official launch of the bank’s first virtual branch engagement solution to be hosted on Whatsapp application. The occasion was held at Absa Mikocheni Branch in Dar es Salaam today.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania | Absa Bank Tanzania has today launched its first ever virtual branch engagement solution to all customers. The new engagement solution is hosted on WhatsApp and will enable its customers to book their banking services and know the turnaround time per service prior to being attended to. The solution is aimed to fit into customers lifestyles and enhance their experience while at the branch.

Addressing the press to announce the system launch, the bank’s Managing Director, Abdi Mohamed said, “Absa’s aim is to become a digitally led bank while providing solutions which caters for our customers convenience and lifestyles. Our customers no longer need to wait aimless at the branch lobby, we are now in a position to engage them before they even arrive through their mobile phones.”

“We chose WhatsApp because it makes interacting with customers easy, private and personalized. Based off our market research at least 68% of WhatsApp users think using the platform is the easiest and most private way to connect. This system will also enable customers to share their feedback on their experience which will put more emphasis on how we can better improve our products and services. As a bank we are truly tapping into our customers lifestyles, by partnering with Fintech companies such as FastHub Solutions to provide more meaningful personalized moments for our customers”, said the Head of Customer Experience (CX) & Digital, Samuel Mkuyu.

The bank’s Head of Retail Banking, Oscar Mwamfwagasi also said, “We have not excluded our non-smartphone owning customers (Feature Phones). We guarantee them the exact same experience by sending a short message service (SMS) to our toll free acquired short code 15062. At Absa, we continue to aspire to help bring possibilities to life and we are now confidently placing our customers lifestyles and needs at the Centre of all we do. As an agile bank we are focused on empowering our customers and further revolutionizing the experience they have with us. We guarantee to serve them according to their needs and create the bank of the future now, which we call Africanacity".

Finance Director, Obedi Laiser concluded by saying "As Absa Bank Tanzania, we continue to harness technology and innovation to meet and anticipate our customers future demands. This platform was conceived from customers feedback that they wanted services to be hassle free and made easier according to the changing times. Our customers can trust that we will continue to evolve our role to become efficient and relevant in the market.

Furthermore, the solution is available to both existing customers with an account at Absa and new customers."

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RAIS MSTAAFU IAMWAGIA SIFA BENKI YA NBC

Rais Mtaafu wa Jamhuriya Muungano wa Tanzania awamu ya nne Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete ambaye alikuwa mgeni rasmi katika hafla ya kufuturisha iliyoandaliwa na benki hiyo akipokea zawadi kutoka kwa Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa Benki ya Taifa ya Biashara NBC, Nd Theobald Sabi. Hafla hiyo ilifanyika katika bustani za Serena Hotel jijini Dar es Salaam pia ilihudhuriwa na Mkuu wa Mkoa wa Dar es Salaam, Nd Aboubakak Kunenge pamoja na Sheikh Mkuu wa mkoa huo Alhaj Mussa Salum, Wateja wa NBC na wadau wengine.Rais Mstaafu Jakaya mrisho Kikwete akifurahia jambo na Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa Benki ya NBC, Nd Theobald Sabi wakati akichukua chakula wakati wa hafla ya futari iliyoandaliwa na benki ya hiyo. Kushoto ni Sheikh Mkuu wa Mkoa wa Dar es Salaam Alhaj Mussa Salum, pamoja na Mkuu wa Mkoa Dar es Salaam, Nd Aboubakak Kunenge.

Mkurungezi Mtendaji wa Benki ya NBC, Theobald Sabi akizungumza wakati wa halfa hiyo.

Rais Mtaafu wa Jamhuriya Muungano wa Tanzania awamu ya nne Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete ambaye alikuwa mgeni rasmi akizungumza na wateja wa Benki ya NBC pamoja na wadau mabli mbali waliohudhuria hafla hiyo.

Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa Benki ya NBC, Theobald Sabi akiwa kwenye picha ya pamoja na baadhi wa wafanyakazi wa benki hiyo.

Rais Mtaafu wa Jamhuriya Muungano wa Tanzania awamu ya nne Jakaya

Mrisho Kikwete ambaye alikuwa mgeni rasmi katika hafla ya kufuturisha

iliyoandaliwa na Benki ya NBC awataka wananchi wa Dar es Salaam,

kusherekea Sikukuu ya Eid il Fitr kwa amani bila kuharibu funga zao. Hafla

hiyo ya kufuturisha ilifanyika katika bustani za Serena Hotel jijini Dar es

Salaam na kuhudhuriwa na Mkuu wa Mkoa wa Dar es Salaam, Nd

Aboubakar Kunenge, Sheikh Mkuu wa mkoa wa Dar es Salaam Alhaj Mussa

Salum, wateja wa Benki ya NBC na wadau wengine.

Akizungumza wakati wa Iftari iliyoandaliwa na Banki ya Taifa ya Biashara,

NBC usiku wa kuamkia leo, jijini Dar es Salaam, Rais Mstaafu Kikwete pia

aliipongeza Benki ya NBC kuwa na bidhaa maalum kwa makundi mbali

mbali bila kubagua imani za kidini hivyo kuongeza mshikamano ndani ya

jamii.

Pamoja na kuipongeza benki hiyo kwa huduma hizo nzuri, Rais

Mstaafu Kikwete alisema kwamba Benki ya NBC iko mstari wa mbele katika

kujenga uchumi jumuishi kutokana na bidhaa ambazo zinalenga watu

wenye uwezo tofauti wa kifedha kuanzia yule wa juu mpaka wa hali ya chini

kabisa.

Aidha amewapongeza Bank ya Taifa ya Biashara, NBC kwa kuweza

kufuturisha waliofunga na kwamba wanapata thawabu sawasawa na

waliofunga. "Niwapongeze kwa kuweza kufuturisha na Mwenyezi Mungu

awabariki kwa mlichokifanya ni kitu kikubwa sana, kuna wengi hawajafikiria

kuweza kuwafuturi lakini ninyi mmeweza bila kuangalia.” amesema Kikwete

Kwa upande wake Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa Banki ya Taifa ya Biashara

NBC. Nd Theobald Sabi, aliwashukuru wateja na wageni waliofika kwenye

Iftari hiyo na kusema kwamba ni mmoja ya matukio muhimu katika kalenda

ya benki hiyo na ni sehemu ya kuongeza uhusiano na ushirikiano na wateja

wao.

“Kwa muda mrefu benki yetu ya NBC imekuwa na utaratibu wa kuandaa

futari kwa wateja wake Tanzania bara na visiwani Zanzibar wakati wa

mwezi mtukufu wa Ramadhani.” alisema Sabi

Aidha Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa NBC, Nd Theobald Sabi aliongeza kuwa

benki hiyo ina huduma za kibenki zinazofuata taratibu za Sharia. “Huduma

zetu za Islamic Banking zilianziswha. tangu mwaka 2010 na ni huduma za

mbadala kwa wateja wetu wanaopenda kufanya miamala kwa kuzingatia

sheria za Kiislamu.

Huduma hizi zinawalenga wateja wakubwa, wadogo na

wateja binafsi na zinapoatikaa katika matawi yote ya benki hiyo nchini.”

Baadhi ya huduma alizogusia ni mikopo isiokuwa na riba na inayofuata

sheria kwa wafanyabiashara na waajiriwa, huduma za amana za muda

maalum zenye gawio la faida halali na Akaunti ya Akiba ya La Riba

iliyounganishwa na mfuko wa bima wa Takahul inayochangia hadi 1m ya

rambi rambi kwa wanafamilia inpotokea mteja amefariki.

Kuhusu Benki ya Taifa ya Biashara (NBC)

Benki ya Taifa ya Biashara, NBC ni benki ya kongwe kuliko zote nchini

Tanzania ikiwa na uzoefu wa zaidi ya miongo mitano. Tunatoa huduma

mbalimbali za kibenki kwa wateja wa rejareja, biashara, mashirika na

misaada ya uwekezaji, bidhaa na huduma za usimamizi mzuri wa fedha.

Benki hii inaanzia mwaka 1967 ambapo Serikali ya Tanzania ilibinafsisha

taasisi zote za fedha, zikiwamo benki.

Mwaka 1991, sheria ya mabenki

ilirekebishwa na miaka sita baadaye, yaan mwaka 1997, taasisi iliyojulikana

kama Benki ya Taifa ya biashara, iligawanywa katika tanzu tatu tofauti NBC

Holding Corporation, National Microfiance Bank (NMB) na NBC (1997)

Limited. Mwaka 2000, Benki ya Afrika Kusini, Absa Group Limited, ilipata

hisa 55% kutoka NBC (1997) Limited. Serikali ya Jamuhuri ya Muungano

ya Tanzania ilipata 30% ya hisa na Shirika la Fedha la Kimataifa (IFC) kama

mwanachama wa Benki ya dunia (World Bank Group), ilipata 15% ya hisa

za benki hii. Taasisi hiyo mpya ikaitwa NBC Limited.

Benki ya NBC ni benki pekee ya kimataifa inayopatikana katika maeneo

mbalimbali nchini. Ikiwa na matawi 47 na mashine za ATM 180, Benki ya

NBC inatoa huduma mbalimbali za ukusanyaji fedha za huduma nyingine

za kibenki kwa wateja mbalimbali. Benki ya NBC sasa imeajiri wafanyakazi

takriban 1,200 nchi nzima.

Kwa maelezo zaidi au msaada tupigie +255 76 898 4000/4011 | +255 22

2 1 9 3 0 0 0 | + 2 5 5 2 2 5 5 1 1 0 0 0 o r ema i l u s

NBC_MarketngDepartment@nbc.co.tz

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Absa Bank Tanzania co-sponsors FinTech & HealthTech youth entrepreneurs in the inaugural Wazo Challenge Tanzania Demo Day

  

Absa Bank Tanzania announced youth entrepreneurial winners of the Wazo Challenge Tanzania Demo Day. The program was managed and organized by Startup Réseau; an India-headquartered startup accelerator which kick-started its East Africa expansion with the inaugural edition of the "Wazo Challenge Tanzania", announced in February 2021.

Wazo Challenge Tanzania focussed on 5 thematic areas - Financial Services, Healthcare, Agriculture, Energy / Utility and Education. As a part of the program, Startup Réseau hosted a Venture Bootcamp, wherein 10 high-potential founders were selected for a 4-week venture mentorship and leadership development bootcamp, that was delivered by successful founders, industry leaders, domain experts and investors from Startup Réseau’s global network. The Venture Bootcamp also had a parallel track of “Office Hours” wherein 15 more startups from the application pool were mentored.

This one-month long venture development bootcamp operated from March - April 2021 having winners compete for a cash grant of USD 10,000 determined by the stage of startups, the founders’ vision, uniqueness, market opportunities and clarity of business model. The grant money was disbursed as Top-3 prizes of USD 5,000 (Kikoba App), USD 3,000 (Mipango App) and USD 2,000 (MedPack)

Awarding the winners during the Demo day event, the bank’s Managing Director, Abdi Mohamed said, “Wazo Challenge Tanzania was based on 12 startups selected from an application pool of 150 startups which focused on 5 themes. Absa being the co-sponsor saw the need to support youth with innovative ideas which are also aimed at impacting communities and bringing people’s possibilities to life, and this at Absa we say is Africanacity”.

Mr. Mohamed also added by saying that Absa Bank has a major role of being a force for good to the community and ensures that youth are highly supported considering there is a bright future instore for them and their daring spirit of making a business idea into reality marks ‘the dream come true’ for entrepreneurial footsteps in the business world.

“Our bank plays a big role in supporting enterprise development in the country and we ensure this impact flows down to the communities as we play a major role in the society by being a force for good. These youth will again set footprints in the business world as they aspire to not only expand from being just startups but to improving economies and adding value to the society” commented the bank’s Head of Marketing and Corporate Relations, Aron Luhanga.

Mr. Luhanga also said that the bank maintains a strong relationship with organizations such as Startup Reseau with purpose of bringing change to the communities and providing support to the ongoing efforts the government still plays in developing the country from empowering youth to refining the economy.

Mr. Mohamed concluded by saying that Absa is a key role player in advancing several sectors in the country some of them being education, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, environment and social wellbeing. The bank ensures that every society investment is aligned with strengthening our relationship with the organizations, community and the government at large.

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BENKI YA NBC YAZINDUA KLABU YA WAFANYABIASHARA MKOANI KIGOMA

Katibu Tawala Mkoa wa Kigoma Rashid Mchatta (wapili kushoto), pamoja na Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa Benki ya Taifa ya Biashara (NBC), Theobald Sabi wakifurahia baada ya kufanya uzinduzi rasmi wa NBC Biashara Club kwa Mkoa wa Kigoma uliofanyika katika Hoteli ya Lake Tanganyika wenye lengo la kuwakutanisha wateja wake wafanya biashara na wenye viwanda na wadau wengine. Wengine pichani kushoto ni Mkuu wa Kitengo cha Wafanayabiashara Wadogo na wa Kati wa benki ya NBC, Mussa Mwinyidaho pamojana Mteja wa Benki hiyo, Marietha Patrick.

Katibu Tawala Mkoa wa Kigoma, Rashid Mchatta (wa sita kushoto), Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa Benki ya NBC, Theobald Sabi (wa saba kushoto) wakiwa kwenye picha ya pamoja na Kamati ya Ulinzi na Usalama wa Mkoa wa Kigoma baada ya uzinduzi rasmi wa NBC Biashara Club kwa Mkoa huo uliofanyika katika Hoteli ya Lake Tanganyika mjini Kigoma.

Benki ya NBC imezindua klabu ya wafanyabiashara wa benki hiyo mkoani Kigoma ikiwa ni sehemu ya mipango ya benki hiyo kusogeza huduma kwa wateja wake sambamba na kujenga mtandao ambao utawasaidia wafanyabiashara wateja wa benki hiyo kufanya biashara zao kwa tija.

Theobald Sabi ni Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa benki ya NBC,Theobald Sabi akizungumza kwenye uzinduzi wa klabu hiyo ya wafanyabiashara kwa mkoa Kigoma alisema kuwa lengo kubwa la klabu hiyo kuwakutanisha pamoja wafanyabiashara na watoa huduma mbalimbali kwenye sekta ya biashara kuzungumza kwa pamoja changamoto zinazowakabili wafanyabiashara hao na kuzitatua.

“Kwenye business club pia tuna Business Clinic ambapo wateja licha ya kukutana wao kwa wao kujenga mtandao wa kubadilishana taarifa na uzoefu wa biashara pia watakutana na wataalam kutoka sekta mbalimbali kama TCCIA, SIDO, BRELA, TRA, kampuni ya maswala ya ukaguzi wa fedha Delloitte na wadau wengine ambao watawasaidia kujua taratibu mbalimbali za kufanya biashara,” Alisema Sabi Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa benki ya NBC.

Mkurugenzi huyo alisema kuwa klabu za wafanyabiashara pia zinawajenga wafanyabiashara na kuwapa uelewa wa namna ya kushiriki kwenye maonyesho mbalimbali kwa ajili ya kutangaza bidhaa zao na kufungua masoko ambapo biashara za kuvuka mpaka zimekuwa zikiangaliwa pia kupitia klabu hizo.

Alisema kuwa kupitia kwenye klabu za biashara benki hiyo imekuwa ikitoa mafunzo kwa wafanyabiashara hao ambao ndiyo msingi mkubwa wa kuwafanya wafanye biashara zao kwa tija ambapo mafunzo yanayotolewa yanazingatia taratibu mbalimbali za kuwafanya wapige hatua za maendeleo kwennye kusimamia biashara.

“Kuna watu wanafanya biashara hawana elimu ya usimamizi wa biashara (Business Management) hivyo kwa semina hizo tunawapa uelewa wa jambo hilo, mbinu za kutafuta masoko, mbinu za kujenga mtandao lakini pia tunawapa uelewa wa namba ya kuandika michanganuo ya biashara kwa ajili ya kuomba mikopo taasisi za fedha na kuwafanya waweze kumiliki mawazo yaliyopo kwenye michanganuo hiyo na kuifanyia kazi kwa faida,”Alisema.

Mkurugenzi huyo wa NBC alisema kuwa kubwa ambalo ndilo msingi wa kuanzishwa kwa klabu za wafanyabiashara ni kuwafanya wafanye biashara zao kwa faida na kukua kibiashara ambako kutaongeza mapato yao lakini pia kutaongeza mapato ya serikali na mwisho wa siku wafanyabiashara hao watakuwa na uwezo wa kukopa mikopo mikubwa na kurejesha jambo ambalo ndiyo msingi mkuu wa benki katika kujiendesha kwa faida.

Katibu Tawala Mkoa wa Kigoma, Nd Rashid Mchatta akizindua klabu ya biashara kwa niaba ya Mkuu wa Mkoa, Nd Thobias Andengenye alisema kuwa mafunzo na kujenga mtandao kwa wafanyabiashara ndiyo msingi mkubwa utakaowawezesha wafanyabiashara kufanya biashara zao kwa faida.

Katika hotuba yake, Nd Mchatta alisema kuwa biashara ambazo zinaendeshwa kwa kufuata maelekezo ya watalaam zimekuwa zikifanyika kwa mafanikio na hata kunapotokea changamoto inakuwa rahisi kukabili changamoto hiyo.

Alisema kuwa kuwepo kwa vikao vya wafanyabiashara wao kwa wao, wao na wadau wengine na wao na serikali kuna faida kubwa katika kuifanya sekta ya biashara kuwa na tija lakini pia inasaidia kukabili changamoto ambazo zimekuwa zikilalamikiwa na kila upande kwenye biashara.

“Tukikaa kwa pamoja na kujadili mambo yanayohusu biashara tutazipatia utatuzi changamoto zinazojitokeza maana wafanyabiashara wana malalamiko yao kwa taasisi za serikali zinazosimamia biashara na serikali nayo inalalamika kwa ukwepaji kodi, bidhaa duni na vitu vingine hivyo klabu za biashara zinatufanya kukutana pamoja na kuzungumza tofauti zetu,” Alisema Mkuu wa mkoa Kigoma.

Uzinduzi wa klabu ya wafanyabiashara mkoa wa Kigoma ulitanguliwa na semina kwa wafanyabiashara wa mjini Kigoma ambapo mada mbalimbali zilitolewa kuwezesha wafanyabiashara kuwa na uelewa wa mambo mbalimbali ya biashara.

Baadhi ya wafanyabiashara walioshiriki kwenye semina na uzinduzi wa klabu ya wafnyabiashara wameeleza faida kubwa ambayo wameipata kwa kuhudhuria semina kutokana na mada zilizotolewa kuishi ndani ya wafanyabiashara ambazo zitawafanya kufanya biashara zao kwa faida.

Kilahumba Kivumo ambaye ni mfanyabiashara mkoni humo akizungumza wakati wa uzinduzi wa klabu ya wafanyabiashara wa mkoa Kigoma, alisema kuwa klabu hiyo ni wazo zuri la litawasaidia kupata mahali pa kuzungumza changamoto zao na namna ya kuzitafutia ufumbuzi.

Alisema kuwa changamoto kwenye biashara ni nyingi ikiwemo taratibu za kupata mikopo ambapo bado taarifa zake hazijawa wazi kwa wafanyabiashara lakini pia vikwazo katika biashara za kuvuka mpaka na vizuizi mbalimbali njiani ambavyo vinawakatisha tama wafanyabiashara hivyo Benki ya NBC imeingia Kigoma kwa wakati muafaka na imeleta matumaini mapya katika biashara zao.

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