By
Charles Mkoka
Tanzania
Commercial Bank (TCB) has introduced a groundbreaking digital service, the TCB
Popote Account, which allows users to book Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) tickets
instantly through a smartphone app. The announcement was made during a press
conference on July 30, 2024.
Marketing
Executive Deo Kwiyuka highlighted the app's convenience, enabling customers to
open an account at any time without needing to visit a physical branch.
“We
have consistently led the industry in innovation. Last month, we launched
'Toboa na Kikoba,' a mobile banking service in partnership with major mobile
networks in Tanzania. Today, we are excited to introduce the TCB Popote Account,
another revolutionary service. With this app, both new and existing customers
can purchase government services, pay bills, and book SGR tickets instantly,”
Kwiyuka said.
The
bank aims to open 250,000 new accounts by the end of the year, leveraging its
rapid advancements in digital technology.
Kwiyuka
emphasized the ease of using SGR tickets purchased through the app, stating,
“Customers can use these tickets immediately at SGR gates without any
additional steps, significantly saving time.”
Jesse
Jackson, Chief Officer of Digital Services and Innovation, discussed the app's
technical aspects, noting that TCB is a leader in banking innovation with a
robust branch network and over 6,000 local agents nationwide. The bank plans
further expansion to increase accessibility.
“Data
indicates that while 89% of Tanzanians have access to banking services within a
5 km radius, only 22% actually have bank accounts. This shows a significant gap
in accessible and affordable financial services. We developed this app to empower
all Tanzanians to access our services easily and trust us with their banking
needs,” Jackson explained.
Kwiyuka said that opening an
account through the app costs Sh 1,000, with account validation done using
a NIDA number.
Recently,
TCB also launched Vikoba services, which integrate all mobile phone companies
in Tanzania to support small village commercial groups known as VIKOBA,
enhancing financial inclusion in local communities.
The
TCB Popote Account service is currently available on smartphones, with plans to
extend it to USSD codes for users without smartphones after the pilot phase.
