Government urges the public to adopt digital payment for inclusion

Dar es Salaam. The government has urged Tanzanians to adopt digital transactions as part of efforts to enhance financial inclusion and streamline economic activities.

The call was made by the Commissioner for Financial Sector Development at the ministry of Finance, Dr Charles Mwamwaja, during a seminar organised by CRDB Bank to educate its customers about internet banking.

Dr Mwamwaja emphasised that digital payments are the future of financial services, stressing that Tanzania must not fall behind in this transition. 

“In recent years, technology has played a pivotal role in global economic transformation. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has consistently underscored the importance of the digital economy in promoting transparency, efficiency, and financial inclusion. By embracing digital transactions, more Tanzanians will gain access to financial services, fostering broader economic participation,” said Dr Mwamwaja. 

He commended CRDB Bank for its initiative to educate customers on internet banking, noting that financial literacy is crucial in addressing concerns related to digital transactions. 

“The government has already adopted digital payment systems to improve revenue collection. Platforms such as the Government Electronic Payment Gateway (GEPG), the Unified Social Economic Model (MUSE), and the Tanzania Automated Information System (TAUSI) are now integrated with financial institutions, including CRDB Bank,” he added. 

Dr Mwamwaja pointed out that internet banking allows customers to perform transactions conveniently, from money transfers and bill payments to purchasing insurance, all without the need for physical bank visits. 

He stressed the importance of public awareness on cybersecurity to boost confidence in digital financial services. 

“The world is moving towards a cashless economy, and Tanzania must keep pace. With the right education on security measures, more people will be encouraged to use digital platforms for financial transactions,” he stated. CRDB Bank’s Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Boma Raballa, highlighted how recent technological advancements have significantly transformed service delivery in the financial sector. 

“Since its establishment, CRDB Bank has prioritised innovation to meet customer needs. Over the past 30 years, we have introduced numerous improvements, and now, as the world transitions to a digital economy, non-cash transactions are becoming the norm. Internet banking is central to this shift, and today we are educating our customers on its security and benefits to enhance their confidence in using the service,” he said. 

He explained that CRDB Bank customers can use internet banking to check account balances, access bank statements, transfer funds within CRDB Bank or to other banks locally and internationally, and make various payments. 

“In today’s digital era, businesses operate around the clock, and services can be accessed from anywhere in the world. CRDB Bank recognises the need to equip customers with the knowledge and tools to navigate digital banking efficiently,” Mr Raballa added. 

During the seminar, participants were also reminded of best practices for safeguarding personal information and preventing unauthorised transactions on their accounts.