As part of its efforts to boost sustainability and digital inclusiveness, MTN Zambia has commenced destroying over 70 million scratch cards in accordance with the government's directive to phase out paper-based recharge channels.
The initiative took place on Tuesday at the E-Tech Recycling warehouse in Lusaka's industrial district.
The project is supported by the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) and intends to strengthen the company's move to digital recharge channels, such as mobile money platform MTN Mobile Money, according to the telco.
Ministry of Technology and Science in partnership with Global System for Mobile Association of Zambia, originally announced the project to phase out the use of airtime scratch cards back in 2022.
Minister Felix Mutati stated that the move is central to the state’s agenda of driving a digitally led economy to promote the country's green environment programmes.
Following multiple deadlines, ZICTA has set September 30, 2025 as the final date for the complete phase out.
According to MTN, digital platforms provide clients with secure, convenient, and environmental friendly alternatives to the physical scratch cards.
By eliminating these cards, the operator is reducing waste and reinforcing its pledge to create a sustainable future for the Southern Africa nation.
“The exercise is directed at efforts to reduce plastic and paper waste, have safer and more accessible forms of recharge and continue to drive digital transformation in Zambia,” said MTN.
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