EBank integration into FNB begins

Ogone Tlhage - The integration of EBank, Namibia’s first branchless bank, into FNB Namibia has officially started.

The integration will allow current EBank customers to seamlessly ride on the back of FNB’s banking infrastructure.

FNB Namibia spokesperson Elzita Beukes says EBank customers will now have access to extended banking services provided by FNB.

“As part of the process of EBank system integration into FNB, FNB is providing extended banking opportunities to our EBank customers, which process started recently,” she said.

The integration will also provide more self-service banking for existing FNB customers.

“This process is part of our larger digital and customer-centric strategy to provide our entire customer base with greater self-service banking opportunities,” said Beukes.

Current EBank customers will be able to enjoy services that are offered by FNB, she said.

“EBank customers currently have the opportunity to transition to FNB accounts where they will be able to take advantage of other FNB services too, while FNB’s EBank model continues in development towards a wider and more easily accessible banking offering, particularly for rural customers,” said Beukes.

EBank recently sent text messages to its customers, informing them that their accounts would no longer be accessible after 15 November 2017.

“Dear client, as part of our integration into FNB, you will no longer be able to access your EBank accounts as from 15 November 2017. To avoid any inconvenience, please contact us or visit a FNB branch to open a FNB account and transfer funds,” EBank texted.

FNB did not respond to a question on the appointment of a new chief executive officer following the exit of former Bank of Namibia assistant governor Michael Mukete. Since Mukete resignation, EBank has been without a chief executive.

FNB also did not explain how its acquisition of EBank would affect employees.

In April this year, Beukes said EBank would continue to operate as usual.

“For now you can expect that EBank will continue to service its customers exactly as before and when the range of EBank products grows or improves or there are even more benefits and features, any new details will be shared first to customers then to the public,” she said.