Ethio Telecom, Awash Bank launch Tila for digital loans
Ethio Telecom is expanding its digital financial services to advance Ethiopia’s digital transformation. Its telebirr platform has already provided over 31.6 billion ETB in digital loans to 15 million customers and facilitated more than 30.3 billion ETB in savings for 4.71 million users. In partnership with Awash Bank, the operator has now introduced a new service named Tila, which offers non-collateral micro-credit and device financing.
The Tila service utilizes an AI-assisted credit scoring model to provide loans to individuals and small businesses, with an annual credit supply exceeding 2 billion ETB. A key component is its device financing, which allows customers, particularly in rural areas, to acquire smartphones through flexible payment plans. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and increase participation in the digital economy.
The company also reported successful pilots for cardless ATM withdrawals and a school fee payment service through its SuperApp. These efforts are part of Ethio Telecom’s broader strategy to promote financial inclusion and accelerate nationwide digital adoption through strengthened partnerships with financial institutions.
