Airtel Zambia Plc has partnered with Zambia National Commercial Bank (ZANACO) to enable Airtel Money Agents and Dealers to deposit cash into their Airtel Money wallet at any Zanaco branch or Zanaco Express shops spread across the country.

The collaboration will result in increased access to financial services in Zambia, where more than 60% of the population remains unbanked.

Speaking at the joint briefing in Lusaka, ZANACO Digital Banking Officer Wane Ng’ambi says the bank is excited to be partnering with one of Zambia’s largest telecommunication company to further ease customer payment processes.

Mr. Ng’ambi says the bank has continued to invest heavily in new systems and digital technology to enhance its banking services offering through the development of new products and services to customers.

He says to date ZANACO has the largest bank distribution network with 70 branches, 188 ATMS as well as over 1,500 ZANACO Xpress agency outlets across the country.

Mr. Ng’ambi says these services will be provided through ZANACO’s wide spread Xpress Agents across the country.

He says the partnership will also enhance the use of digital innovations as a tool for driving economic growth and financial inclusion.

Speaking at the same event, Airtel Networks Zambia Plc Airtel Money Director James Chona says the partnership with ZANACO creates a large number of points for Airtel money agents to rebalance their mobile money accounts so they can continue to service customers more efficiently and effectively.