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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has endorsed the launch of NALA, a cross-border money transfer service aimed at helping Ugandans in the diaspora send money home securely and affordably. NALA, operating in 21 countries including the UK and US, offers remittances via mobile money wallets and bank accounts with no fees.

During the launch in Kampala on Thursday, Ms Sophie Birungi, a Foreign Service Officer from MOFA’s Diaspora Department, highlighted the difficulties diaspora members face when sending money home.

"Many Ugandans abroad struggle with ensuring the safety of their funds. Often, money sent home ends up in the wrong hands, or their savings are misused. Additionally, some can't open bank accounts due to visa overstays, forcing them to store cash at home, where it can be confiscated by authorities," she said.

Ms Birungi emphasized that NALA fills a critical gap, offering a secure and cost-effective solution for money transfers.

Mr Nikolai Eddy, NALA's Chief Operating Officer, explained that the company’s focus on high transaction volumes with minimal foreign exchange margins allows them to keep operations running smoothly.

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