BAZ Announces Transition to Digital Payment System

The Bankers Association of Zambia (BAZ) has announced that the country has successfully modernised its payment system by upgrading to a real-time digital payments system.

This upgrade includes mobile money and electronic payment platforms. Consequently, cheques will be phased out as a method of payment.

BAZ Chief Executive Officer Mr Mwanza commented that the transition was smooth and that no major challenges or market disruptions were recorded after 30 June, the 2026 deadline.

Mr Mwanza explained that the Office of the Accountant General led the process by migrating spending agencies, including key institutions such as schools and rural health centres, to online payment platforms ahead of the deadline. The early transition to the new payment system ensured public institutions were prepared before cheques were withdrawn from circulation.