How dfcu Bank’s Revamped *240# USSD Platform is Revolutionizing Banking Access for Every Ugandan

In a move set to redefine financial access across Uganda, dfcu Bank has unveiled a major upgrade to its *USSD 240# platform, offering customers a seamless, fast, and inclusive banking experience. Designed for maximum accessibility, the service eliminates the need for smartphones, internet connectivity, or airtime, allowing users to manage their finances effortlessly from any mobile device.

Through the revamped *240# platform, customers can now check account balances, transfer funds, pay utility bills, purchase airtime, apply for loans, and manage their accounts—all from the convenience of their mobile phones, regardless of location. The upgrade comes as part of dfcu Bank’s ongoing commitment to digital innovation and financial inclusion, particularly for underserved communities and those in rural areas.

We sat down with Isaac Birigwa, Head of Cards and Payments at dfcu Bank, who explained how the new *240# system is transforming banking for millions of Ugandans. Birigwa highlighted alot in the Q&A detailing that the platform is more than a convenience tool—it is a strategic effort to bridge the gap between formal financial services and the unbanked population, enabling more people to participate in Uganda’s growing digital economy.

Q: What exactly is *240#, and why is it important?

Birigwa: *240# is dfcu’s mobile banking service for any account holder with a basic phone. It runs on USSD, so customers don’t need internet or a smartphone. From balance checks and bill payments to airtime top-ups and instant loans, services are available 24/7. In Uganda — where rural populations remain underserved — *240# is breaking barriers to financial inclusion.

Q: What’s new in the revamped version?

Birigwa: We redesigned the platform after listening to customers. The menus are now faster and easier, with up to 40% fewer steps. It supports multiple local languages, self-registration, and added services like Mobi Loans, standing orders, approvals, and float purchases. Best of all, it’s zero-rated — no airtime or data required.

Q: What services can customers access?

Birigwa: Nearly everything. Account management, transfers to banks and mobile wallets, bill payments for utilities, TV, and schools, airtime and data bundles, plus loan applications and repayments. Business services like float purchases and approvals are also included. It’s a full suite of retail and SME banking, right from a handset.

Q: Who qualifies, and how do you register?

Birigwa: Any dfcu savings or current account holder qualifies. Registration is self-service: dial *240#, select your language, accept terms, enter your account and ID details, then create a 5-digit M-PIN. Within minutes, your account is linked and ready.

Q: How does this support financial inclusion?

Birigwa: The biggest barrier to banking is access. *240# runs on GSM networks and works in rural areas with limited connectivity. By eliminating the need for smartphones or airtime, and by offering services in local languages, we’re ensuring that no customer is left behind.

Q: Why should every dfcu customer activate *240#?

Birigwa: Because it puts banking in your pocket. You can complete 90% of transactions without visiting a branch — loans, payments, transfers, everything — securely and instantly. Wherever you are in Uganda, *240# makes banking simple, affordable, and available anytime.

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