ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (HornPost) The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) has issued a public awareness notice warning against the use of unlicensed Money Transfer Agents (MTAs) and illegal Hawala networks, saying such activities are prohibited under Ethiopian law and could expose senders and recipients to financial and regulatory risks.
The central bank issued the warning as remittance transactions increase, urging customers, members of the Ethiopian diaspora and the general public to use only authorized channels when sending or receiving money.
According to the NBE, transactions conducted through unauthorized money-transfer agents or illegal Hawala operators could result in financial losses, payment delays and account restrictions. Senders, recipients and family members receiving funds may also face legal or regulatory action under applicable Ethiopian laws and regulations.
NBE Lists Unauthorized Remittance Operators
The National Bank of Ethiopia identified the following entities, among others, as unauthorized operators:
- Amal USA
- Adulis Money Transfer (ADZ)
- Amana Express
- Amal Express
- Avanti
- Bakaal Money Transfer
- Jubba Express
- Ramad Pay/Ramada Pay (Kaah)
- Shgey Money Transfer
- Tasa Pay
- World Direct Link
- Tawakal Money Services
- Awash Direct
- Rasmy Pay
- Taaj Financial Service
- USwyre
- Zola
The NBE said the listed entities are not authorized to provide remittance services to Ethiopia.
Central Bank Urges Customers to Verify Providers
The central bank urged customers to protect their funds by using only NBE-licensed Money Transfer Agents when sending or receiving remittances.
It also advised customers to verify whether a remittance provider is included in the official list of licensed MTAs published by the National Bank of Ethiopia before sending funds.
The warning highlights the importance of using regulated remittance channels as Ethiopia seeks to strengthen oversight of money-transfer services and protect customers from financial and regulatory risks associated with unauthorized Hawala operations.
Source: National Bank of Ethiopia public awareness notice, Aug. 28, 2026.
Prepared by
Horn post staff
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia
