Business Focus Story – Closing the distance on remittances: M‑Vatu brings lower‑cost transfers and everyday payments closer to home

Across Pacific Island countries, remittances are essential, but high costs and strong cash habits continue to limit digital adoption. In Vanuatu, Vodafone’s mobile wallet M-Vatu provides a cheaper, faster way to send money, top up credit and make payments.

Despite onboarding 700 market vendors across Santo, Tanna and Efate in 2023, regular use remained low. The challenge was not registration, but limited awareness, confidence, perceived relevance and trust. Many users did not see the need for M-Vatu, even while paying more for alternatives. MDF partnered with Vodafone to better understand user behaviour and refine the model to drive more consistent, confident use.