Ithala sets up new-look branches

ITHALA SOC Limited opened a stateof-the-art technology full-service branch in Durban on November 15. The new Anton Lembede branch is one of 36 Ithala has in Kwazulu-natal, and the fifth of its kind.

The event was attended by, among others, Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC Siboniso Duma, Inkosi Sbonelo Mkhize, the deputy chairperson of Ithala SOC Limited board, clients and family of the great Anton Lembede.

The Anton Lembede branch is one of the new-look branches aimed at combining physical transacting and digital integration.

Four other Ithala branches have a similar look; the Umlazi Megacity branch was the first Ithala SOC Limited branch to have the new look, with digital facilities. Umlazi Kwamyandu, Richards Bay branch, and Eshowe branch are the other four. The bold steps are geared towards ensuring that KZN citizens do not have to travel long distances to access banking services.

The Anton Lembede branch necessitated by our commitment rebuilding and repositioning the province’s economic position, which was harmed by the triple unfortunate events of Covid, the civil unrest and the floods in the past three years.

The introduction of the new branches will allow the older generation to become comfortable with digital banking.

The new branch features include an I-station, with digital devices where our I-station consultants educate our clients on how to use digital banking It also has Skype Rooms, where customers who have enquiries can make an appointment and connect virtually with a consultant.

We introduced an e-ticketing system, which allows customers to relax on the couches in the customer waiting lounge until their ticket number is called.

Speaking at the launch, MEC Duma said: “We are very pleased that Ithala has done an incredible job where it assists black people who will walk into a financial institution and be afforded services that other banks usually decline because of lack of collateral.

“Ithala remains the embodiment of a progressive financial institution.”

Ithala SOC Limited CEO Dr Thulani Vilakazi said: “We remain focused on the path to redefining wealth for every South African through our exciting offerings at the Anton Lembede Branch. We would like to urge everyone to open their accounts and start enjoying the benefits that come with it.”

Ithala SOC Limited is the only state-owned entity that provides full banking services. It is regulated by the South African Reserve Bank and other banking industry regulators and is committed to ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations.