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A Beginner's Guide to Using EcoCash (2025 Guide)

Estimated read time: 3 minutes

Quick Summary

  • What it is: A mobile money service linked to your Econet SIM card.
  • How to Register: Visit an authorized EcoCash agent with your ID and Econet line.
  • Main Menu: Dial *151# to access all services.
  • Key Functions: Send Money, Make Payments, Buy Airtime, Cash Out.
  • Security: Your account is protected by a 4-digit PIN. Never share it.

EcoCash is Zimbabwe's most popular mobile money platform, allowing you to perform many financial transactions directly from your phone without needing a traditional bank account.

Step 1: How to Register for EcoCash

Registration is a simple, in-person process.

  1. What You Need: Your original National ID (or valid passport) and your active Econet SIM card in your phone.
  2. Visit an Agent: Go to any authorized EcoCash agent, Econet shop, or branded kiosk.
  3. Complete the Form: The agent will give you a registration form to fill out.
  4. Activation: The agent will process your registration, and your EcoCash wallet will be activated on your phone number. You will be prompted to set your secret 4-digit PIN.

Step 2: Key Functions (Using the *151# Menu)

Almost everything you do on EcoCash starts by dialing *151# on your phone.

  • Send Money: This allows you to send money directly to another person's phone number. You will need their number and the amount you want to send.
  • Make Payment / Pay Bill: Used to pay for goods in shops or to pay utility bills (like ZESA, council rates). Shops will provide a "Biller Code" or "Merchant Code" that you need to enter.
  • Buy Airtime: You can buy airtime for yourself or for another phone number directly from your wallet.
  • Cash Out: This allows you to withdraw physical cash. You generate a "Cash Out" token on your phone and give it to an agent, who will give you the cash.
  • Wallet Services: This menu lets you check your balance, view a mini-statement of your last few transactions, and change your PIN.

Step 3: Putting Money In (Cashing In)

To use your EcoCash wallet, you need to have money in it. You can "Cash In" by:

  • Giving cash to an authorized EcoCash agent, who will electronically credit your wallet.
  • Receiving money sent from another EcoCash user.
  • Linking your bank account to your EcoCash wallet to transfer funds.

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Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Never Share Your PIN: Your PIN is your password. No one from EcoCash or Econet will ever ask you for it. Keep it secret.
  • Confirm Before Sending: When sending money, the system will show you the recipient's name for confirmation before you enter your PIN. Double-check that it is the correct person. It is very difficult to reverse an incorrect transaction.
  • Beware of Scams: Be cautious of messages claiming you have won a prize or need to pay a fee to unlock funds. These are often scams designed to trick you into sending money.