DBSI Goes Digital with M-SELEN: $48K in Loans Land Instantly on Customers’ Phones

When Noelyn Pitu, a G-Province staff living in Lungga, received confirmation that her Development Bank of Solomon Islands (DBSI) loan had been approved last week, she prepared for the usual process; travel arrangements, paperwork, and waiting.

Instead, the funds were deposited directly into her M-SELEN wallet.

Noelyn was one of five customers to receive digital loan disbursements of up to $48,000 last week, because of the new partnership between DBSI and M-SELEN.

This is a significant milestone in expanding access to development finance.

“I received the money straight to my phone,” Noelyn said. “I didn’t have to travel or carry cash. I could immediately pay suppliers and move forward with my plans.”

For borrowers outside Honiara, accessing loan funds has often required time and transport costs. With digital disbursement, approved funds are delivered instantly and repayments can be made anytime through a mobile phone.

DBSI CEO Mr. Aisake Radu said the milestone demonstrates stronger service delivery. “Through M-SELEN, we are improving speed, reliability, and customer convenience while strengthening the sustainability of our loan programmes.”

Majidul Haque, Head of M-SELEN, described the moment as transformative. “M-SELEN is proud to serve as the vehicle enabling DBSI to deliver secure, accessible finance to customers wherever they are.”