How to Send Money to EcoCash in Zimbabwe
The fastest way to get money to your family - they can receive and use it instantly on their phone.
What is EcoCash?
EcoCash is Zimbabwe's largest mobile money service, operated by Econet Wireless. It allows users to send money, pay bills, and make purchases using their mobile phone. Over 10 million Zimbabweans use EcoCash.
Why Send to EcoCash?
EcoCash is the most popular way to receive money in Zimbabwe because:
Instant delivery
Money arrives in seconds, not hours
No bank needed
Just a mobile phone with EcoCash registration
Easy to use
Recipients can pay bills, buy airtime, or cash out
Widely accepted
Thousands of merchants accept EcoCash in Zimbabwe
Providers That Support EcoCash
Not all money transfer services offer EcoCash as a payout option. Here are the providers that do:
| Provider | Fee | Speed to EcoCash | $500 AUD Received |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remitly | $3.99 | Minutes | USD 320.15 |
| WorldRemit | $3.99 | Minutes | USD 317.57 |
| Mukuru | $4.99 | Minutes | USD 315.32 |
Step-by-Step Guide: Send to EcoCash
Here's how to send money to an EcoCash wallet using Remitly (similar steps for other providers):
Create an account
Sign up on the Remitly website or download their app. You'll need to verify your identity with a valid ID.
Enter the transfer amount
Type in how much AUD you want to send. You'll immediately see how much USD your recipient will receive.
Select 'Mobile Money' as delivery method
Choose EcoCash from the mobile money options. This is usually the fastest delivery method.
Enter recipient's EcoCash details
You'll need their: Full name (as registered on EcoCash), EcoCash mobile number (e.g., +263 77X XXX XXX)
Pay for your transfer
Complete payment via bank transfer or debit card. Bank transfer is usually cheaper.
Track and confirm
You'll receive a notification when the money arrives. Your recipient will also get an SMS on their EcoCash phone.
Fees for EcoCash Transfers
When you send to EcoCash, you pay:
- Transfer fee: $3.99 - $4.99 AUD (varies by provider)
- Exchange rate markup: 0.7% - 2% (hidden in the exchange rate)
Your recipient may pay a small EcoCash fee if they cash out at an agent, but receiving the money itself is free.
Tips for Sending to EcoCash
Common Issues
- • Wrong number: Triple-check the EcoCash number before confirming
- • Name mismatch: Use the exact name registered on the EcoCash account
- • Unregistered number: Ensure your recipient has an active EcoCash account
Alternatives to EcoCash
If your recipient doesn't have EcoCash, consider these alternatives:
- Cash pickup: They collect cash at a Mukuru booth or Western Union agent
- Bank transfer: Money goes directly to their Zimbabwean bank account (USD)
- OneMoney: NetOne's mobile money service (less common than EcoCash)
Cash pickup is the best alternative for recipients without bank accounts or EcoCash.
Conclusion
Sending to EcoCash is the fastest and most convenient way to get money to your family in Zimbabwe. With most transfers arriving in minutes and no bank account required, it's the preferred method for the Zimbabwean diaspora.
Ready to Send to EcoCash?
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