The National Bank of Rwanda has introduced its eKash payment system in Bugarama and Kamembe, located in the Rusizi district of Western Province. On September 22-23, officials from the central bank visited the area as part of a nationwide campaign dubbed "Twagiye Cashless" (Let's Go Cashless). The eKash system allows users to make transactions using their mobile phones. This initiative aims to promote a cashless economy and provide a convenient and secure way of making payments.
Local residents and business owners have welcomed the introduction of eKash. Mukamugema Berita, a trader from Rusizi, said that previously, he would often incur high transaction fees when sending money via phone or in person. However, with eKash, his transaction fees have significantly decreased, from 500 Rwandan francs to just 20 francs. Berita has encouraged his fellow traders to adopt the new payment system. The ease of use and reduced transaction fees have made eKash an attractive option for locals.
Beatta Mukahirwa, a seed trader at the Bugarama market, also expressed her enthusiasm for eKash. She stated that she plans to use the mobile payment system for her transactions going forward. In an interview with KT Radio, Adeline Mukashema, who works in the payment systems department at the National Bank of Rwanda, said that the public has received eKash positively. The campaign's goal is to educate people about the benefits of eKash, including its ability to integrate with various financial systems.
The eKash campaign has been touring the country, visiting different districts to educate residents about the mobile payment system. The campaign has already visited Huye, Musanze, and Rubavu, and will continue to reach out to more areas. Mukashema noted that during these visits, they have an opportunity to address concerns and gather feedback from the public. While some residents have raised issues with eKash, Mukashema assured that these concerns are being addressed in collaboration with service providers.
The National Bank of Rwanda aims to promote a cashless economy through the eKash system. By encouraging the use of mobile payments, the central bank hopes to increase financial inclusion and make transactions more convenient and secure. The eKash system has the potential to transform the way people make payments in Rwanda, reducing the need for cash and increasing the efficiency of financial transactions.
The introduction of eKash in Bugarama and Kamembe is part of a broader effort to promote digital payments in Rwanda. The central bank has been working to develop a robust payment system that is accessible to all Rwandans. By leveraging mobile technology, the eKash system provides a convenient and affordable way for people to make transactions, regardless of their location.
As the eKash campaign continues to roll out across the country, residents and business owners are encouraged to adopt the mobile payment system. With its ease of use and low transaction fees, eKash has the potential to become a popular payment method in Rwanda. The National Bank of Rwanda remains committed to promoting financial inclusion and innovation, and the eKash system is a key part of this effort.
Key points
- The eKash payment system has reduced transaction fees for users, making it an attractive option for locals.
- The National Bank of Rwanda aims to promote a cashless economy through the eKash system.
- The eKash campaign will continue to tour the country, educating residents about the benefits of the mobile payment system.
