Western Union and PostBank Uganda have launched an international money transfer service within the Wendi mobile wallet, enabling customers to send and receive funds globally.
The co-branded digital service builds on the existing in-person Western Union money transfer services at PostBank Uganda locations, driving digital adoption and accessible financial services for all.
According to Mohamed Touhami el Ouazzani, Regional Vice President of Africa at Western Union, Uganda’s growing digital landscape presents an opportunity to enhance financial inclusion.
“Uganda’s fast-growing digital landscape presents an immense opportunity to enhance financial inclusion,” he said. “This new service reaches banked and unbanked populations, ensuring more Ugandans can participate in the global economy.”
The Wendi mobile wallet, launched by PostBank Uganda, enables customers to efficiently manage and transact funds directly from their smartphones and feature phones. With the integration of Western Union’s international money transfer services, customers can now receive money from their loved ones into the wallet seamlessly through Western Union’s vast global network.
Customers also have the flexibility to send funds to bank accounts and mobile wallets worldwide, as well as for cash pick-up at locations abroad.
Andrew Kabeera, Executive Director at PostBank Uganda, noted that the collaboration with Western Union supports the bank’s mission to make financial services accessible to all Ugandans.
“With Wendi, we are empowering Ugandans, especially those who may have limited access to traditional banking services, to access secure savings accounts, earn interest on daily savings, and complete various financial transactions with ease,” he said.
The launch comes as mobile money transactions surge in Uganda, with over 43 million customers registered to access mobile money in 2023, according to the Bank of Uganda.
The collaboration between Western Union and PostBank Uganda demonstrates their commitment to driving accessible financial services through seamless and reliable cross-border money transfer services.
The service is expected to contribute to the growth of Uganda’s digital economy, while also promoting financial inclusion and economic development.