Leading the charge in digital innovation and financial inclusion across Zimbabwe
EFT Corporation has appointed Farai Tigere to head up their Zimbabwean operations to drive the organisation’s strategy of fostering financial inclusion, digital transformation and economic empowerment in the region. As a trusted leader in Zimbabwe’s payment ecosystem, EFTCorp provides tailored solutions that meet the needs of prevailing economic conditions and accessible tools that align with market trends to empower businesses and individuals to thrive in a reinvigorated digital economy.
Having joined EFTCorp first as Implementation Engineer, before shifting focus in 2018 to business development and solution architecture, Tigere has played a key role in Zimbabwe’s payment digitisation efforts. His extensive experience and local expertise uniquely position him to navigate Zimbabwe’s economic environment and ensure EFTCorp’s solutions remain relevant and impactful.
“The primary goal is to maintain and expand EFTCorp’s established role as a major player in Zimbabwe’s payment ecosystem, which involves deepening the company’s reach in underserved sectors and further strengthening its presence in commerce,” says Tigere. “I am excited for the new opportunities this role offers. For me personally, it represents professional growth, and for the company, it is a chance to steer the Zimbabwean arm of the business through a challenging but opportunity-rich period of business growth.”
The digital payments landscape
Cash transactions remain the preferred method for many, driven by factors such as the fluctuating local currency value and the convenience of US Dollar cash transactions, trust has become an important factor in encouraging the adoption of digital payments.
Informal markets, which form a vital part of the Zimbabwean economy, require digital payment solutions that are constantly evolving to remain relevant and meet the sector’s unique needs. Mobile money platforms have historically played an important role in bridging this gap, allowing individuals and small businesses to participate in the financial system with minimal infrastructure.
Building on this foundation and by leveraging significant market research, Tigere aims to restore confidence in digital payments by delivering solutions that complement the informal sector’s needs, enable a seamless transition from cash-based and electronic transactions while driving greater accessibility of digital payment systems. “There is significant potential for payment solutions to drive financial inclusion, ensuring more Zimbabweans benefit from access to formal financial services and opportunities,” says Tigere.
The country is already moving towards mandatory POS systems and Tigere is positioning EFTCorp to be able to offer a comprehensive range of POS solutions as soon as this policy is introduced. “By tailoring these solutions to different market segments, EFTCorp will ensure that businesses are equipped to comply immediately with policy changes while benefiting from efficient payment systems,” he says.
The opportunity
Financial inclusion for more Zimbabweans is essential for the country’s economic growth. Through localised digital platforms and adaptable payment systems, EFTCorp empowers underserved communities as well as small businesses in the country by providing tools that are accessible, reliable, and aligned with their needs. “EFTCorp’s ability to innovate and adapt is what enables us to remain relevant,” says Tigere. “As part of a larger organisation, we’re uniquely positioned to leverage expertise and experiences from other markets to create meaningful solutions for this country. Our goal is not just to grow locally, but to influence and contribute significantly to the payments landscape across Africa.”
