The (CBE) has officially launched , a new digital payment and banking application designed to elevate Ethiopia’s digital financial ecosystem and expand access to fast, convenient, and modern banking services.

The announcement was made during an official launch event, with remarks delivered by , Vice President of Corporate Service Excellence at CBE. Speaking at the event, Ephrem emphasized that digital transformation is no longer optional for financial institutions, but a necessity driven by changing customer expectations and the rapid evolution of financial technology.

“We are living in a time where implementing digital systems is not a choice, but an obligation,” he said. “Digital transformation is a collective effort, not something institutions can achieve in isolation.”

Aligning with Ethiopia’s National Digital Vision

CBE positioned the launch of StarPay as part of its broader contribution to , the government’s flagship strategy aimed at accelerating digital adoption across key sectors of the economy.

According to Ephrem, applications like StarPay play a critical role in meeting the growing demand for seamless, reliable, and user-friendly financial services, while also supporting national goals around digital inclusion, efficiency, and innovation.

What StarPay Brings to the Market

StarPay is designed to enable a range of banking services and digital payment solutions through a single platform. By leveraging modern financial technology, the app aims to simplify everyday transactions, reduce reliance on cash, and improve service delivery for both individuals and businesses.

The application was developed through a strategic partnership between the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia and StarPay Financial Technology, reflecting a growing trend of collaboration between traditional banks and fintech firms in Ethiopia’s emerging digital economy.

Strengthening CBE’s Digital Commitment

With the launch of StarPay, CBE is signaling a deeper commitment to modernizing its service offerings and maintaining its role as a central player in Ethiopia’s financial sector. As customer needs continue to evolve, the bank says it will keep investing in digital platforms that prioritize speed, convenience, and reliability.

Key Highlights

• New App: StarPay digital banking and payment application
• Objective: Modernize banking services and support Digital Ethiopia 2030
• Partnership: Developed with StarPay Financial Technology
• Impact: Faster, more convenient access to digital transactions and banking services