RBZ Reports Record US$44.9 Billion in Electronic Transactions in 6 Months
Zimbabweans are transacting digitally like never before. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) says a record 381 million electronic transactions worth ZWG1,2 trillion (about US$44,9 billion) were processed in the first half of 2025.
RBZ Reports Record US$44.9 Billion in Electronic Transactions in 6 Months
This means that, on average, every person in the country made six digital transactions over the six months. Payments were made through multiple channels — from RTGS transfers and bank cards to mobile money, apps, and online platforms. At its peak, monthly transactions topped ZWG250 billion, showing just how much digital payments have become part of daily life.
Banking expert Raymond Madziva said the growth was impressive but came with risks. He stressed that with so many transactions happening, the country must strengthen its cybersecurity systems to protect against fraud and technical failures.
Governor Praises Digital Transformation
RBZ Governor Dr. John Mushayavanhu took a more optimistic view, saying digital payment systems are transforming the way Zimbabweans move money, whether in big cities or rural areas. He pointed out that mobile money interoperability and instant payments are making it easier to pay bills, send money locally, and even make cross-border transfers.
“From urban centres to remote villages, mobile money interoperability and instant payments are transforming how Zimbabweans transact, pay bills and remit across borders,” Mushayavanhu said.
He also revealed that Zimbabwe is on track to meet the ISO 20022 international payment standards by November 2025, which will bring local systems into line with global norms.
In another move to boost innovation, the RBZ has revised licensing and fee rules for money transfer and mobile banking operators, lowering the barriers for fintech companies. Zimbabwe’s participation in the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) is also expanding, with local banks processing ZAR 2.41 billion in SADC-RTGS transactions. However, transaction volumes on the platform fell 23% as the market adjusted to the changes.
Follow Us on Google News for Immediate Updates
The post RBZ Reports Record US$44.9 Billion in Electronic Transactions in 6 Months appeared first on iHarare News.
