By Our Correspondent
DODOMA.
Tanzania Commercial Bank (TCB) has proudly announced its involvement in the
newly launched Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project, which now connects Dar es
Salaam to Dodoma.
During the
launch event in Dodoma, President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan highlighted the SGR
project as a major milestone in the nation's infrastructure development. She
emphasized that the project's launch marks a critical step toward realizing the
vision of a fast, affordable, and reliable transportation network. Although the
benefits of the SGR may not be immediately visible, the President stressed that
the project is designed to serve the nation by facilitating international trade
and contributing to national development. The ongoing construction of the SGR,
which will extend to Kigoma at the borders of Burundi and the Democratic
Republic of Congo, is expected to provide significant economic advantages,
particularly for the tourism industry.
TCB Bank
has been recognized as a key financial partner in this groundbreaking project.
The bank has played a crucial role in financing the procurement of locomotives
and carriages for the SGR and providing loans to contractors of Yapi Merkezi,
the company responsible for the construction.
Adam
Mihayo, Managing Director of TCB Bank, stated that the bank is committed to
ensuring that customers benefit from the SGR project. Through its extensive
network of agents across the country and the robust TCB Popote mobile platform,
TCB Bank aims to make modern transportation accessible and reliable for all.
Moreover,
Mihayo revealed that TCB Bank has secured the contract to provide digital
ticketing services, including the installation of Ticket Vending Machines
(TVMs) and the integration of the TCB Popote mobile app, which allows customers
to open an account with just TZS 1,000, making it easier to purchase SGR
tickets from any location in the country.
“Customers
can also purchase tickets seamlessly through TCB's 7,000 agents nationwide,
enhancing ticket availability. Additionally, TCB ATM cards are now compatible
with Point of Sale (PoS) systems and TVMs at all SGR stations,” he noted.
To further
streamline payment processes, Mihayo announced that TCB Bank has introduced a
QR code payment system for passengers, enabling them to use PoS systems without
needing internet access, thereby reducing the risk of system errors.
TCB Bank
has also implemented an innovative communication system using artificial
intelligence via WhatsApp, making SGR services more accessible. Ticket sales
are integrated with the Government Electronic Payment Gateway (GePG),
contributing to national revenue growth.
As a leading financial institution, Tanzania Commercial Bank (TCB) is dedicated to providing financial solutions that meet the diverse needs of its customers. With a strong focus on inclusive economic growth and technological innovation, TCB Bank remains committed to enhancing banking services and supporting the nation's economic development.