Select Page

First automatic cash deposit machine launched in Rundu

First automatic cash deposit machine launched in Rundu

A so-called Automatic Deposit Taking machine, installed by First National Bank in Rundu, was introduced to the river community this week. This is the first installation of its kind by a local bank in a rural town.

The device was inaugurated during a ceremony at the FNB branch in Rundu with many dignitaries in attendence. The Governor of the Kavango East Region, Hon Dr Samuel Mbambo, the Regional Commander of the Namibian Police, Commissioner Johanna Ngondo and the Mayor of Rundu, Her Worship Verna Sinimbo joined the banks staff to celebrate the new type of teller, and to see if the machine actually works.

A demonstration was given on-site by lifestyle banking consultant, Abongile Mpikwa, ably assisted by Toivo Kalla, the bank’s Area Sales and Service Manager in the Far North office.

The Automatic Deposit Taking machine, which on the outside looks just like a conventional ATM, can receive cash deposits of up to N$20,000 for any FNB account. The funds are then available immediately for disbursement to other creditors. This way, customers can make transfers, pay bills, buy airtime, buy electricity, or pay any other listed beneficiary. The service is active 24/7.

Slightly apprehensive over the expected uptake, Kalla acknowledged that traditional banking in a branch is still preferred by many customers but pointed out that electronic channels are the future of banking, not only for convenience but also for affordability.

“While the bank understands that the traditional way of banking via branches is still preferred by many Namibians, FNB actively encourages its clients to make use of their electronic products and services” he invited.

Driving home the point about affordability, he said “Our latest passion is to provide affordable and accessible banking channels to both the business and consumer segments throughout Namibia, and that is why we wanted to introduce our latest innovation – the ADT machines to the Rundu community.”

In the picture, on their way to do the first test run, are from the left, Abongile Mpikwa, FNB lifestyle banking consultant, Dr Samuel Mbambo, the Kavango East Governor, Commissioner Johanna Ngondo, Nampol’s regional commander and the exuberant Rundu Mayor, Her Worship Verna Sinimbo.

About The Author

The Staff Reporter

The staff reporter is the most senior in-house Economist reporter. This designation is frequently used by the editor for articles submitted by third parties, especially businesses, but which had to be rewritten completely. - Ed.