In keeping with Egypt’s Vision 2030 for sustainable development, the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) has made banking services and products more accessible to persons with disabilities.Banking operations in Egypt have planned programs and events to increase financial literacy and promote banking services and products. These activities and events were part of the CBE’s Day for Persons of Determination, which is conducted every December in conjunction with the “International Day of Persons with Disabilities – IDPD.”For this occasion, and in accordance with CBE rules announced on September 30, 2021, the banking industry has given the required support for adjusting infrastructure to meet the needs of people with disabilities. The number of branches suited to service this consumer category climbed to 848, accounting for 18% of the entire branch network. ATMs with features assisting people of determination achieved 4950 machines, or 22% of the total number of ATMs spread among governorates, exceeding the CBE’s 10% target.Moreover, 7060 banking staff have been trained in sign language to handle hearing and speech-impaired customers, while issuing the account opening forms in Braille, and accepting signature stamps and fingerprints as an alternative to the regular signature for all banking procedures.
Banks have also set up a single window system for people with disabilities to ensure their quick and easy access to banking services. Various technological and digital solutions have been implemented, while modifying the internal policies and procedures to suit the needs of people with disabilities, according to international best practices. As part of the CBE’s strategic partnership with ministries and relevant entities, some banks hosted the “Diarna” exhibition to give exhibitors with disabilities the chance to display their handicraft and artwork products at their headquarters and main premises, under the auspices of the Ministry of Social Solidarity. Banks also reached out to people with disabilities in Egyptian governorates and remote areas, in cooperation with the National Council for Human Rights (NCHR) and civil society organizations. These efforts have led to doubling the number of banks equipped for people with disabilities in 2023. CBE reaffirms its commitment to promote and support financial inclusion for all society segments, in collaboration with all the relevant parties and within the framework of Egypt’s Vision 2030.
