By Our Reporter
As digital finance continues to evolve, access remains uneven. While smartphone apps
dominate conversations around modern banking, many Ugandans still rely on basic mobile
phones and have limited or inconsistent internet access.
To bridge this gap, dfcu Bank has enhanced its *240# USSD platform, enabling customers
to bank easily from any phone, anywhere in the country without data or airtime.
We spoke to Isaac Bigirwa, Head of Cards & Payments at dfcu Bank, about why USSD
banking still matters, what’s new on the platform, and how it’s changing everyday banking for
individuals and small businesses.
Many banks are focusing on mobile apps. Why is dfcu still investing heavily in USSD
banking?
Not every Ugandan owns a smartphone or has reliable access to the internet, and at dfcu we
strongly believe that banking should be inclusive. The *240# USSD service works on any
phone, anywhere in the country, without requiring data or airtime.
It allows farmers, traders, teachers, and small business owners to access essential banking
services conveniently, regardless of where they live or the type of phone they use.
For readers who may be unfamiliar with it, what exactly is *240#?
*240# is dfcu Bank’s USSD mobile banking service. Customers simply dial *240# on their
phone and follow the on-screen prompts. There’s no need to download an app, connect to
the internet, or have airtime.
Using *240#, customers can check their balances, send money, pay bills, buy airtime,
manage their cards, and even access loans—all from a basic mobile phone.
How does this work in real, everyday life?
A typical customer can dial *240# to check their balance, send money to a family member or
supplier, pay electricity or school fees, buy airtime, or move money from mobile money into
their dfcu account.
All of this can be done in just a few minutes, without visiting a branch or ATM, which saves
both time and transport costs.
dfcu recently upgraded the *240# platform. What’s new?
The upgraded *240# is faster, simpler, and more reliable. We’ve reduced the number of
steps in the menu to make it easier to navigate, even for first-time users.
New and enhanced features include self-onboarding using an account number and NIN, self
PIN reset, zero-rated access that doesn’t require airtime, and multiple language options
including Luganda, Runyakitara, Luo, Lugbara, and English.
Customers can also transfer funds from wallets to bank accounts, send money to other
banks, manage their cards by checking balances or blocking them, make cardless
withdrawals at agent points, and create or cancel standing instructions, including cross-
currency transfers.
In effect, *240# is now a complete banking solution accessible on any phone.
How easy is it for someone to get started?
It’s very straightforward. A customer dials *240#, selects their preferred language, accepts
the terms and conditions, enters their account details, and creates a simple five-digit PIN.
Within minutes, they are fully set up and ready to start banking.
Why were zero airtime access and local language options a priority?
Zero airtime access removes a major barrier by allowing customers to bank even when they
don’t have airtime on their phone. Local language options help users clearly understand the
menus and transact with confidence.
Together, these features make banking simpler, more inclusive, and more accessible for
everyone.
Security is always a concern with digital banking. How safe is *240#?
Security is a top priority at dfcu Bank. Every transaction on *240# is protected by a personal
PIN, and the platform is supported by strong security systems that monitor and prevent
fraud.
Customers can also take control by managing their cards directly on *240#, including
blocking a card immediately if necessary.
How does *240# support small businesses and agents
Small businesses can access affordable digital financing such as the SME Mobiloan of up to
UGX 5 million and the Mostock loan of up to UGX 50 million for stockists.
Beyond financing, SMEs can pay bills and taxes, make local transfers, and purchase MTN or
Airtel agent float through *240#. This helps business owners save time, improve cash flow,
and keep their operations running smoothly
If customers need help, where can they turn?
Support is always available. Customers can reach dfcu through the 24/7 call centre,
WhatsApp, email, social media platforms, or by visiting any of dfcu’s 56 branches across the
country.
Finally, what message would you like to share with Ugandans about *240#?
I encourage all Ugandans to open a dfcu account and experience convenient everyday
banking through *240#. Individuals can send money, pay bills, and manage daily
transactions easily, while small businesses can access digital loans and purchase agent
float.
All of this is available on any phone, without the limitation of data or airtime.
