On 9 June 2026, Ms. Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, Permanent Secretary for International Relations and Cooperation, held a strategic engagement with officials from MTN Mobile Money Limited Zambia, commonly known as MoMo, in a meeting focused on advancing digital financial services for Zambians living abroad. The MTN delegation was led by Chief Product Officer Mr. Chikondi F. Mwanza, alongside Mr. Remmingtone T. Milambo, Manager for Remittance and Interoperability. The discussion formed part of broader national efforts to improve financial access for the diaspora and strengthen cross-border economic participation. The meeting focused on practical ways to enhance remittance systems and expand digital payment solutions that connect Zambians globally. It also reinforced the growing importance of mobile money platforms in supporting national development goals.
The engagement highlighted MTN Mobile Money’s ongoing initiatives designed to simplify financial transactions for Zambians in the diaspora. Officials presented an overview of existing services that allow users to send and receive money efficiently across borders using digital platforms. A key development discussed was the recent launch of outbound remittance services to Europe, which represents a major step in expanding international payment corridors. This development is expected to improve both accessibility and affordability for users who depend on cross-border transactions to support families and businesses in Zambia. The meeting emphasized how such innovations are reshaping financial inclusion by reducing reliance on traditional banking systems and lowering transaction barriers.
Discussions also explored opportunities for deeper collaboration between government institutions and MTN Mobile Money Limited Zambia to strengthen diaspora engagement. Both parties considered strategies that could expand access to digital financial services while ensuring regulatory alignment and policy support. The conversation focused on building an enabling environment that supports secure, efficient and scalable financial platforms for international users. Stakeholders also discussed potential joint programmes aimed at increasing awareness of digital financial tools among Zambians abroad. These programmes are expected to include outreach initiatives and capacity-building efforts designed to improve understanding and usage of mobile money services.
Another key area of focus was financial literacy and the need to empower diaspora communities to fully utilize digital financial platforms. The meeting recognized that access alone is not enough without the knowledge required to use these services effectively and safely. Plans were considered for government-led financial literacy initiatives that would work alongside private sector partners to improve user confidence in digital transactions. These initiatives aim to ensure that Zambians abroad can make informed financial decisions while contributing more effectively to national economic development. The discussions also reinforced the importance of trust, security and ease of use in expanding digital financial ecosystems.
Ms. Gundersen commended MTN Mobile Money Limited Zambia for its continued efforts in advancing financial inclusion and improving access to modern financial services. She reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that respond to the needs of Zambians living in the diaspora. She further emphasized that such collaborations play a key role in strengthening secure and affordable financial systems that benefit both individuals and the broader economy. The Permanent Secretary noted that expanding digital financial services aligns with national priorities aimed at increasing diaspora contributions to development. The meeting concluded with a shared understanding that continued partnership between government and private sector stakeholders will be essential in building a more connected and financially inclusive future for Zambians worldwide.