M-BIRR mobile banking systems launched in Ethiopia

M-BIRR, mobile money transfer system, has been launched in Ethiopia to operate local money transfer, according to The Reporter.

M-BIRR was established in 2012 by five partnering microfinance institutions working in Addis Ababa and four Regional States to extend services for clients. Wossen Merga Shibrecha, Business Development Manager of Moss ICT Consultancy Services, said M-BIRR does not presuppose internet connection and requires less quality mobile networks.

Awash Abitew General Manager of Addis Credit and Saving Institution (ADCSI) said M-BIRR uses mobile banking technologies and deliver services through any type of mobile phones.

This time, M-BIRR gives services including money transfer and payments for distance education, payments for goods and services, payment for fuel at gas stations, payment for utility bills, subscription fees and solar energy service payments. Payrolls, pensions, grants or aid money transfers are also parts of the services M-BIRR delivers.

Amhara Credit and Saving Institution, Debit Credit and Saving Institution, Oromia Credit and Saving SC and Omo Credit and Saving microfinance were giving the service. There are 1,000 branches and some hundred mobile banking agents that deliver the mobile money system.

M-BIRR was launched on September 8, 2015, in Addis Ababa, at Sheraton Addis Hotel.

SOURCE:THE REPORTER