Airtel Zambia and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) have announced a collaboration to roll out the ‘Last Mile Distribution’ project designed to extend Airtel money services to rural areas.

The two organisations said the partnership is integral to building a cashless economy in rural areas, to support government’s efforts to curb COVID-19 and improve the circulation of money and strengthen digital financial services.

According to a statement issued by Airtel, the project will be implemented in the country’s six provinces including Southern, North Western, Luapula, Western and Northern.

Airtel has committed to improve on the number of products and services for Airtel money customers in those sites.

Airtel money will also provide their agents with access to an electronic float (E-Float) with the aim of improving their transactions and enhancing limits which will reinforce customer service.

Airtel money director James Chona said he was confident the partnership will improve digital finance and inclusivity within the provinces.

“This project aims to provide digital financial services to Zambians living in deep rural and remote areas. The project builds on the investment we have made in the country over the years by building necessary infrastructure thus, expanding digital finance and providing the necessary support to achieving financial inclusion. COVID-19 has been a major drive to this project, and we are willing to do more to ensure that our customers can transact without any hindrance,” said Chona.

UNCDF country Lead Isaac Holly added: “To successfully promote digital economies that leave no one behind, UNCDF depends on partnerships. We partnered with Airtel in the past and working together again shows how meaningful our collaboration has been. This new partnership with Airtel is one that improves digital and financial inclusion to Zambians living in remote or hard-to-reach areas.”