The National Bank of Egypt (NBE), in collaboration with Mastercard, has unveiled the Touch Card, a groundbreaking payment solution designed to empower customers with visual impairments. The launch event was attended by Dr. Maya Morsy, Egyptian Minister of Social Solidarity, Hisham Okasha, Executive Chairman at NBE, Dalia El Baz, Deputy Chairman at NBE, Adam Jones, Division President for West Arabia at Mastercard, Inji Borai, Vice President and Country Manager at Mastercard Egypt, Karim Sous, Retail Chief Executive Officer at NBE, and representatives from Nour Al-Baseera Association.

In her speech, Dr. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity, expressed deep pride in the launch of the Touch Card, a key initiative aimed at advancing financial inclusion for visually impaired individuals, in alignment with national directives. Dr. Morsy commended the collaborative efforts that led to the creation of this unique card, emphasizing that the National Bank of Egypt has set a local precedent by introducing such an innovative solution. She also underscored the ministry's commitment to accessibility, noting the provision of sign language interpreters in 13 public universities, the Ministry's significant support for approximately 1.2 million people with disabilities through the "Karama" program, and the issuance of 1.3 million integrated service cards to further assist them.

Hisham Okasha, Executive Chairman, the National Bank of Egypt, stated that this unique card represents Egypt's first innovative payment solution designed for sight impaired, and partially sighted individuals. The Touch Card has been meticulously crafted to seamlessly integrate with existing point-of-sale terminals and ATMs, ensuring widespread accessibility. He emphasized that the launch is a significant milestone in the longstanding partnership with Mastercard and builds on both parties shared vision in delivering innovative financial solutions tailored and driving financial inclusion.

In his speech, Okasha also pointed out that the National Bank of Egypt was the first to launch a payment card in Egypt in 1994, resulting in transforming the payment and banking scene. He also explained that NBE’ strategy reflects its understanding of the market dynamics and its ongoing commitment in developing relevant products and services that meet the changing needs of customers.

To increase access to financial services, NBE has appointed 100 visually impaired employees and trained 400 staff members in sign language across 230 branches. The bank has also introduced Braille-equipped banking models in 60 branches, operates 1,288 ATMs specifically designed for visually impaired users, 34 ATMs catering to individuals with mobility disabilities and 28 mobile ATMs equipped with specialized lifts. It also provides 60 financing programs under "Hemma" program for individuals with disabilities.

Dalia El Baz, Deputy Chairman at NBE, added that the unique design of the Touch Card features distinct notches on the side, with debit cards having a rounded notch, and prepaid cards bearing a triangular notch, users can easily identify and distinguish between their cards, allowing them to conveniently integrate into the digital economy. She emphasized that this partnership demonstrates both parties’ commitment to expanding accessibility, drive financial inclusion and build digitally inclusive communities. 

“We are incredibly proud of this achievement and are confident that the Touch Card will make a profound impact on the lives of individuals with visual impairments in Egypt, empowering them to manage their finances with greater ease and confidence. This initiative aligns with Mastercard's global vision of a world where everyone has the tools and resources they need to thrive in the digital age.” said Adam Jones, Division President, West Arabia, Mastercard

Karim Soos, Retail Chief Executive Officer at National Bank of Egypt, stated that that this initiative aligns with the growing with NBE’s recognition of the importance of financial inclusion for individuals with disabilities. The Touch Card will empower these individuals to confidently manage their finances and participate fully in the digital economy.

Echoing this sentiment, Inji Borai, Vice President and Country Manager, Egypt, Mastercard, said: “At Mastercard, we believe that financial inclusion and accessibility are fundamental rights. We are committed to leveraging innovation to connect everyone to the digital economy and ensure that no one is left behind. The Touch Card is a testament to our continuous efforts to making a positive impact in the lives of individuals by facilitating financial security, inclusivity, and independence.”

A recent Mastercard study, Bridging the Disability Gap: An Opportunity to Make a Positive Impact, revealed that digital inclusion is the pathway to financial inclusion for persons with disabilities. It highlights that there is a clear opportunity for the industry to work collaboratively to make a positive impact on the lives of millions of people around the world.