Secret admirer

This is the first of a new series asking respected individuals about their favourite CSR campaigns or programmes. Here, Susan Morgan, who is responsible for BT’s sustainable economic growth programme, highlights an initiative from Vodafone and Citigroup. She sees it as a great example of companies working to deliver practical, sustainable solutions in emerging markets.

Susan, what is it that Vodafone and Citigroup are doing that interests you?

It’s an international mobile money transfer venture between mobile operator Vodafone and global bank Citigroup. Specifically, it’s a money payment solution that enables customers to complete simple financial transactions by mobile phone. It was launched in February 2007.

Who is it designed for?

The service is aimed at people in developing countries who, generally speaking, don’t have access to banking facilities.

How does it work?

Customers purchase a SIM card from local operator Safaricom (Vodafone’s partner in Kenya) and register their mobile number with a local agent. Once they are on the system, they can receive money on their phone or send money to other mobile phones.

Is there a need for this kind of service?

Absolutely. Enabling money to be transferred – either domestically or internationally – from person to person using mobile technology can greatly assist the flow of funds from migrant workers back to their families. There’s also a security benefit for individuals as it reduces the need to carry money.

Why do you rate this particular project so highly?

What Vodafone and Citigroup have done is a great example of putting into practice a sound business vision that also delivers benefits to society and individuals. It shows that new and innovative solutions can be found in emerging markets.

Do you believe that schemes such as this make sound business sense for commercial organisations?

Yes I do. There is a real benefit to using the expertise of the private sector to help find sustainable solutions that address issues in emerging markets. This is something that BT is starting to look at very seriously to understand how it could be relevant for us. This is an integral part of our sustainable economic growth programme.