The regulatory sandbox is a framework set up by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)
that allows Fintech startups and other innovators to conduct live experiments in a
controlled environment under supervision.
The Fintech Regulatory Sandbox
Introduction
The Fintech Regulatory Sandbox is intended for innovators in the financial services sector who have already
developed their service, product or business model and are ready to undertake a proof of concept through
monitored market testing. The sandbox guidelines set out the objectives and principles of the sandbox,
and provide guidance to the applicant on the application process and the information to be provided to
the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe.
The sandbox activities, which shall be tested, are those, which the Reserve Bank would be able to oversee
in terms of the RESERVE BANK ACT, Chapter 22:15; BANKING ACT, Chapter 24:20 , the NATIONAL PAYMENT SYSTEMS ACT,
Chapter 24:23; the MONEY LAUNDERING AND PROCEEDS OF CRIME ACT, CHAPTER 9:24; EXCHANGE CONTROL ACT Chapter 22:05
and any other relevant regulations.
Key Resources
Applying to the Sandbox
The Sandbox will have four distinct phases; namely the pre-application phase, the application and
evaluation phase, the testing phase and the exit and deployment phase. Each phase will have key milestones
and the Sandbox Team will communicate the movement through the phases to the Applicant
(See the Fintech Regulatory Sandbox Guidelines for more detail).
Before submitting, an application for operating in the Sandbox the Applicant must ensure that it has met
all the eligibility criteria set out in Annex 2 of the Fintech Regulatory Sandbox Guidelines.Prospective
applicants may submit their applications here.