admin
Herald Reporter
Zimbabwean mobile network users have hailed Econet Wireless and Sasai Money Transfer for scrapping transfer fees on all remittances sent from the United Kingdom and South Africa to Zimbabwe.
Econet Wireless, Zimbabwe’s largest telecommunications and technology company, achieved a first in Africa at the beginning of this month, by opening two free remittance corridors into Zimbabwe, eliminating costs for both sender and receiver.
Recipients of free money transfers from both the UK and South Africa have commended the initiative as “a lifeline” for citizens grappling with an impending drought.
“I am pleased that Econet has removed cash-out charges because it allows me to use all the money I receive to buy more food.
“This is especially important now, as we are facing a drought and most of my crops have wilted under the intense sun,” said Ms Primogenitor Mbambo from Gokwe
She said she frequently receives money from relatives in South Africa to supplement her food and grocery requirements.
Ms Vimbayiwashe Zhakata, from Murehwa said she uses the money she receives from relatives in South Africa to pay for her medical expenses.
“When I received money last week I cashed it out at a pharmacy and bought the medication I required. The introduction of this free service is commendable, especially in these challenging times,” she said.
Mr Cephas Makurumidze from Rusape, applauded Econet for ensuring that funds to cash out remittances are readily available at its shops. “I am happy that each time I visit the Econet shop, funds are always available. The removal of fees is a great initiative as it leaves me with more money to spend,” he said.
International remittances currently attract charges of up to 13 percent for the sender, while the receiver is charged between 1.7 percent and two percent when cashing-out.
Chinhoyi resident Ms Letwin Gunduza said the removal of the transfer charges will help her family to start saving for the rainy day.
“I receive money every month from my husband who works in South Africa, to pay school fees and buy groceries. Now with the removal of transaction charges, we can use the extra money for investments or savings,” she said.
The same sentiment was shared by Ms Chiedza Chikukwa, from Masvingo who noted that the initiative is leaving her with more money in her pocket.
“The zero-fees remittance promotion is an enticing offer that significantly enhances the value of the service. It’s an initiative I find immensely beneficial and eagerly look forward to utilizing further,” she said.
Ms Ruth Vela, an 83-year-old pensioner from Harare, described the Econet-Sasai Money Transfer zero-fees remittances initiative as “a blessing”.
“I collected money sent by my niece in the UK without incurring any charges. For us pensioners, every dollar counts, and not having to pay fees is a huge relief. It means I can afford more essentials, like medication and food, which are crucial for my well-being,” she said.
Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s Group CEO, Dr Douglas Mboweni, recently said the free remittance initiative will remain in place “for the foreseeable future”.
He also announced plans to extend it to other remittance corridors , such as the United States, Europe and the Middle East. With more than three million Zimbabweans living abroad, analysts say the zero-rating initiative by Econet and Sasai Money Transfer will result in more foreign currency inflows into the country.
Online Reporter