NCBA waives digital transaction fees as customers face rising costs

What the report says

NCBA Bank Uganda has waived fees on selected digital banking transactions until the end of 2026, in a move aimed at giving customers relief as they cope with higher living and business costs. The campaign was launched on October 13 at the bank’s headquarters in Kampala, according to The Independent Uganda, and applies to services accessed through the NCBA NOW mobile app, online banking and USSD.

The waiver covers a range of common transactions, including utility bill payments, bank-to-wallet transfers, electronic funds transfers, RTGS payments, international transfers and National Social Security Fund payments. Managing Director Mark Muyobo said the bank wanted to make banking more affordable and said it was prepared to give up some fee income to support customers during a period of pressure from fuel prices and other operating costs.

The report said the initiative reflects a wider balancing act for banks: lowering charges can help attract more digital activity while reducing near-term revenue. NCBA is also using the campaign to encourage inactive and prospective customers to use its digital channels more often. The bank said the offer is part of a broader push to improve affordability, alongside an existing program for small and medium-sized enterprises that also reduces some banking costs.