By Martin Chiwanda

Machinga, July 16, Mana: People in Machinga have realized that digital banking and payment channels provide rural populations with access to formal financial services that may not be readily available in their respective communities.

The residents made the observation in an interview with Malawi News Agency (Mana) as government through the Reserve Bank of Malawi conducted an awareness campaign in the district encouraging people to embrace electronic transaction platforms.

Ngulumia Village Development Committee Chairperson, Moses Mlanga, said apart from promoting access to formal financial services, it helps promote financial inclusion by giving people in the community the opportunity to save, borrow and manage their money more effectively.

Mlanga noted that using digital payment methods eliminates the need for rural populations to travel long distances to access traditional banking services as they can conveniently make payments, transfer money and conduct other transactions in the comfort of their home or local points of service.

He however, asked the government and other stakeholders to put more effort in sensitizing the local masses as this can benefit small businesses and farmers by enabling them to reach a broader customer base and engage in e-commerce activities.

Another community member, Mathews Umali said communities stand to benefit greatly from embracing digital financial transactions as it can reduce fraud and theft.

On his part, Traditional Authority Mizinga urged chiefs in the district to be in the forefront in ensuring that people embrace the initiative.

“Community leaders are crucial in embracing digital finance transactions because they can build trust and understanding among community members. Like what I am doing in my community, we are mandated to educate people about the benefits and safety of digital financial services,” said Mizinga.

Even students see that transacting using digital financial service platforms is convenient, safe and efficient compared to traditional cash payments, according to James Lysana, a student at Machinga Teachers Training College.

“We can easily pay for tuition, books and other expenses without carrying large amounts of cash. This reduces the risk of theft and allows for greater financial control. It also offers transparent transaction histories, making it easier to track expenses and manage budgets,” he said.

Digital Financial Services (DFS) Supervisor for Machinga, Andrew Chafwala said communities are patronizing the awareness campaign, which is a positive indication towards people’s willingness to embrace digital finance transactions.

The DFS awareness campaign is taking place on a pilot phase in Machinga and Chikwawa in the southern region, Lilongwe and Kasungu in the central region and Karonga and Chitipa in the northern region.