Three years ago, we promised to move the KRG’s cash-based payroll into licensed banks through the MyAccount initiative. I’m pleased to report that this week, one million citizens on the KRG payroll will receive their salaries electronically through partner banks licensed by the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI).

MyAccount was the foundational program in our commitment to expand financial inclusion. It gives citizens access to credit and modern banking services, while making it easier for the government to enable electronic payments for public services.

This has been transformational for more than one million citizens. MyAccount has given them greater financial independence, giving them control of their finances and access to a growing ATM network across the Kurdistan Region.

The days of citizens standing in long queues outside government buildings waiting for cash handouts are over.

I thank our people for their patience, our partner banks for their support and investment over the last three years, and the MyAccount team for delivering this national program.

Masrour Barzani