BPR Atlas Mara CEO on digitisation strategy, COVID-19 impact on business

BPR Atlas Mara, a leading bank in Rwanda, has been spearheading the digital banking shift in the region, showcasing an optimistic outlook despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Maurice Toroitich, the CEO of BPR Atlas Mara, recently sat down with CNBC Africa to discuss the bank's digital strategy and the potential impact of the pandemic on its business operations. Toroitich highlighted the significant uptake of digital channels by customers, with around 65% of total transactions now being conducted through digital means. This surge in digital adoption was fueled by the bank's robust mobile and internet banking applications, as well as its agency banking platforms, all supported by a resilient internal infrastructure. Toroitich emphasized that while the shift to digital was accelerated by COVID-19, the bank was well-prepared with advanced digital solutions to cater to changing customer preferences. As the banking industry evolves, Toroitich addressed the future of agency banking in a post-COVID world, foreseeing a shift towards offering higher value services beyond cash transactions. He discussed the role of agents in providing customer advisory support and troubleshooting, in line with the increasing tech-savviness of customers. Looking ahead, Toroitich shared insights on the bank's performance, anticipating a cautious approach to credit growth in 2021 due to the pandemic's impact on loan demand and existing loan portfolios. He acknowledged the likelihood of an increase in non-performing loans as businesses continue to grapple with financial challenges. However, Toroitich expressed optimism about the ongoing vaccination program and its potential to revive economic activities in the latter half of the year. He highlighted the positive impact of widespread vaccination on boosting trade and business confidence, ultimately benefiting banks and the overall economy. In navigating the current economic landscape, Toroitich emphasized the importance of innovation and adaptability, urging businesses to seize new opportunities and pivot their business models for sustained growth. Touching on the recent acquisition of 62% of BPR Atlas Mara by KCB Bank, Toroitich reassured clients that the move would create a stronger and more resilient banking entity in Rwanda, offering enhanced services and a broader regional footprint. He encouraged stakeholders to view the acquisition as a positive step towards strengthening the banking sector and driving financial inclusion in the region.