By Jones Gadama
National Bank of Malawi has launched a new digital platform that allows customers to open bank accounts and update their Know Your Customer (KYC) information online.
The platform, called NBM SmartOnboard, is aimed at improving convenience and expanding access to banking services through technology.
Speaking during a demonstration of the system, one of the bank’s senior officials, Yusuf Mdala, said NBM SmartOnboard will eliminate the need for customers to make multiple trips to branches just to open an account or update their personal details.
“This innovation is part of our commitment to digital transformation. It saves time for customers and reduces congestion in our banking halls,” Mdala said.
According to Mdala, the platform is user-friendly and secure, enabling customers to complete the entire onboarding process remotely using internet-enabled devices. He added that the move supports the bank’s broader strategy of advancing financial inclusion and modernizing service delivery.
By digitizing account opening and KYC updates, the bank expects to reach more people, especially those with limited access to physical branches.
One of the key features of NBM SmartOnboard is that it allows Malawians living in the diaspora to open accounts with National Bank without having to travel back home.
This is expected to make it easier for citizens abroad to invest, save, and support families in Malawi. In addition, the platform permits parents and guardians to open accounts for their children, promoting a culture of saving from an early age.
Mdala noted that the financial sector is evolving rapidly and banks must adapt to changing customer needs. “With NBM SmartOnboard, we are not only making banking more accessible but also contributing to the growth of the digital economy,” he said.
The bank has urged customers to take advantage of the platform and assured them that all necessary security measures have been put in place to protect personal data.
The launch of NBM SmartOnboard comes as more financial institutions in Malawi embrace technology to streamline operations and improve customer experience.
National Bank said it will continue to invest in digital solutions that align with global banking trends while addressing local market needs.
