Addis Ababa, August 28, 2026 (FMC) — The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) has warned the public against using illegal Hawala networks and unlicensed Money Transfer Agents (MTAs), cautioning that transactions through unauthorized operators could expose senders and recipients to financial losses and legal and regulatory consequences.
The central bank said the warning comes as remittance transactions increase during the current period, urging customers, members of the Ethiopian diaspora and the general public to use only NBE-authorized remittance channels when sending or receiving funds.
According to the NBE, transactions conducted through unauthorized money transfer agents and illegal Hawala operators may result in financial losses, delays in receiving payments and account restrictions.
Such transactions could also expose both senders and recipients, including family members receiving remittances, to legal and regulatory action under applicable laws and regulations.
The NBE said it has previously issued public warnings on the use of unlicensed MTAs and illegal Hawala networks, stressing that such activities are prohibited under Ethiopian law.
The central bank has identified the following entities, among others, as unauthorized to provide remittance services to Ethiopia: Adulis Money Transfer (ADZ), Amana Express, Amal Express Avanti, Amal USA Awash Direct, Bakaal Money Transfer, Jubba Express, Ramad Pay/Ramada Pay (Kaah), Shgey Money Transfer, Tasa Pay, World Direct Link, Tawakal Money Services, Rasmy Pay, Taaj Financial Service, USwyre and Zola.
The NBE stressed that these entities are not licensed to provide remittance services to Ethiopia and called on the public to verify the authorization status of remittance providers before sending funds.
It advised customers to use only NBE-licensed Money Transfer Agents to help ensure that remittances are transferred securely and efficiently. The official list of licensed MTAs is available on the NBE website.