ComBank Shakthi Agency Banking network has been significantly expanded by Commercial Bank of Ceylon, reinforcing its commitment to improving access to financial services across underserved communities in Sri Lanka.
ComBank Shakthi Agency Banking network reaches 26 locations
Commercial Bank has added 22 new outlets to its ‘ComBank Shakthi’ Agency Banking network, bringing the total number of locations to 26 island-wide. This expansion reflects the bank’s ongoing strategy to enhance financial inclusion and deliver a more accessible and convenient banking experience, particularly for customers located beyond the reach of traditional branch networks.
The initiative is designed to bridge geographic and demographic gaps in banking access by leveraging a network of authorised third-party agents. These agents, typically trusted local businesses or individuals, act as intermediaries between the bank and its customers, providing essential banking services within their own communities. Through this model, customers can carry out a wide range of transactions, including cash deposits, withdrawals, fund transfers, balance inquiries, and bill payments, without needing to travel long distances to a bank branch.
At the operational level, the ComBank Shakthi Agency Banking network is powered by specialised Point of Sale (POS) devices integrated with the bank’s proprietary software. These devices ensure secure and encrypted connectivity with the bank’s core systems, enabling transactions to be processed in real time. Customers receive printed receipts along with SMS confirmations, reinforcing transparency and reliability while maintaining high standards of security.
The expansion of the ComBank Shakthi Agency Banking network also aligns with the bank’s broader objective of supporting underserved and unbanked segments of the population. By offering a convenient and technology-enabled channel for everyday banking activities, the initiative reduces both the time and cost associated with accessing financial services, particularly in rural and remote areas.
A key feature of this model is its integration with the bank’s Agriculture and Micro Finance Units (AMFU). These units have established strong relationships within rural communities, allowing the bank to leverage existing trust networks when introducing agency banking services. This approach not only facilitates smoother adoption but also strengthens community engagement, ensuring that services are tailored to the needs of local populations.
The newly added outlets are strategically located across various regions, including Katupotha, Hengamuwa, Budumuttawa, Malwathuhiripitiya, Udugampola, Koswatte, Kotiyakumbura, Akkarayankulam, Oddusudan, Baduraliya, Bombuwala, Yattapatha, Kadihingala, Batukotuwa, Wanathawilluwa, Vankalai, Pesalai, Akkaraipattu, Thirukkovil, Siththandi, Puthukkudirippu, and Lahugala. These locations complement the four pilot outlets established earlier in Tissamaharama, Hambantota, Siyambalanduwa, and Buttala.
With this expansion, Commercial Bank now operates a total of 298 physical customer access points across Sri Lanka, including its existing network of 272 branches. The addition of agency banking outlets enhances the bank’s ability to serve a broader customer base while maintaining operational efficiency in an increasingly digital and competitive financial landscape.
Beyond improving accessibility, the ComBank Shakthi Agency Banking network plays a critical role in advancing financial inclusion in Sri Lanka. By enabling individuals and small businesses to access formal banking services, the initiative supports savings mobilization, secure transaction processing, and greater participation in the formal financial system. This is particularly important in driving economic empowerment and supporting grassroots economic development.
The bank noted that the continued growth of its agency banking network underscores its commitment to adopting innovative service delivery models. As customer expectations evolve and the demand for convenient, localized banking solutions increases, such initiatives are expected to play a central role in shaping the future of banking in Sri Lanka.
By extending its reach beyond conventional branch infrastructure, Commercial Bank is positioning itself to meet the diverse needs of its customers while contributing to broader national goals of financial inclusion and economic participation. The expansion of the ComBank Shakthi Agency Banking network represents a strategic step in this direction, reinforcing the bank’s role as a key enabler of accessible and inclusive financial services across the country.