ZB Bank Customer Service Complaints Resolution: How We are Transforming Your Experience

ZB Bank customer service complaints have been heard, acknowledged, and are driving meaningful improvements across our organisation. At ZB Financial Holdings, we recognise that every complaint represents an opportunity to serve you better, and we're committed to transforming your banking experience through concrete improvements in how we listen, respond, and deliver solutions.

If you've experienced challenges with our service—whether difficulty opening an account, rigid branch (service centre) procedures, or communication gaps—this article outlines exactly how we're addressing these concerns and what you can expect moving forward.

ZB NATAL
ZB Natal Head Office

Understanding ZB Bank Customer Service Complaints: Listening to Your Voice

Customer feedback is the compass that guides our continued service upgrades and improvements. Over the past year, we've carefully analysed trends in customer complaints, identifying key areas where our service could have been better, clearer and faster. Below are some of the main ZB Bank customer service complaints we received and addressed.

Common Customer Service Concerns We've Addressed

The most frequent concerns raised include challenges during the account opening process, perceived inflexibility in branch (service centre) dealings, and instances where customers felt their unique circumstances weren't adequately considered. These complaints have provided invaluable insight into gaps between our procedural requirements and customer expectations.

In addition, we've also heard about and addressed the frustration regarding communication delays and difficulty reaching the right person to resolve issues. Each of these concerns represented an opportunity for further improvement across our teams so we could ensure delivery of the seamless, customer-centric experience you deserve.

Why Your Complaints Matter to Us

Every complaint filed through our channels—whether via branch (service centre) visits, our WhatsApp banking service at +263 772 442 685, email, or social media—is logged, reviewed, and analysed by dedicated teams committed to continuous improvement.

“Zimbabwe has a fast-evolving digital and environmentally conscious population, and regulatory landscape. To keep pace with the demands of modern banking, we needed an innovative, scalable and secure core banking solution that enhances operational efficiency and omnichannel banking, while supporting our growth. Finastra has been a customer-centric, reliable, and trusted partner for more than 20 years.”

— Dr Shepherd Fungura, Group Chief Executive Officer, ZBFH
 
Dr Shepherd Fungura, Group Chief Executive Officer, ZBFH

How ZB Bank Is Resolving Customer Service Complaints

We've implemented a comprehensive, multi-tiered complaint resolution framework designed for speed, transparency, and fairness. Here's exactly what happens when you file a complaint with ZB Bank.

Our Enhanced Multi-Channel Complaint Process

You can now submit complaints through multiple channels: in-person at any of our 49 branches (service centres), via WhatsApp (+263 772 442 685), through our online enquiry form at zb.co.zw/contact, by calling our customer service hotline, or through our social media platforms. Every complaint receives a unique reference number for tracking.

Within 24 hours of submission, you'll receive acknowledgment of your complaint along with the name and contact details of the staff member handling your case. Our commitment is clear: initial responses within 48 hours, and full resolution within 10 business days for standard complaints.

Faster Response Times and Transparent Communication

We continually reduce and improve the complaint resolution time through dedicated customer experience teams, streamlined escalation procedures, and empowered branch (service centre) managers with greater decision-making authority to resolve issues on the spot.

ZB Bank Complaint Resolution Timeframes

  • Initial response: Online enquiries generally receive a response within three working days.

  • Prompt resolution goal: All customer complaints are targeted to be addressed within a reasonable time, generally not later than 48 hours from the date of lodging.

  • Delayed complaints: If a complaint takes longer than 48 hours to resolve, the bank's procedure requires that the customer be informed of the delay and receive progress updates at least every seven days.

  • Final outcome: The customer should be advised of the investigation outcome, in writing or through electronic channels, within seven days of the investigation's completion.

For complex cases requiring investigation across multiple departments, we provide weekly status updates rather than leaving you in the dark. If resolution extends beyond expectations, we also explain why and provide a revised timeline.

“Our core focus as ZB Financial Holdings is service. We deeply care about serving people. That’s simply what it comes down to. We are there to serve you.”

— Emilliah Mabika, Executive Head, Brand & Corporate Communications, ZBFH
Emilliah Mabika, Executive Head, Brand & Corporate Communications, ZBFH

Our Commitment to Customer Service Excellence

We have designed our service centres to ensure customers receive fast, accessible, and human-focused support at every touchpoint. Clients can access in-person assistance through our tellers, customer service consultants, Ask-Me Desk, or directly from the Service Centre Manager — whose office is placed visibly near the entrance for maximum accessibility.

This strategic visibility allows customers to reach management effortlessly while also enabling real-time monitoring of service delivery through transparent glass partitioning. In addition, each service centre includes a fully equipped digital zone with ATMs and computers, giving customers the flexibility to conduct digital banking or connect instantly to our 24-hour Virtual Service Centre and Call Centre for uninterrupted support.

To maintain consistently high service standards and ensure every customer is treated with fairness, dignity, and respect, we implement rigorous quality assurance measures across all our service centres. Mystery shopping exercises are conducted regularly, evaluating each branch (service centre) and scoring managers on customer experience performance and how effectively they resolve identified gaps.

Beyond internal assessments, we have taken national leadership in customer service research — actively investing in understanding Zimbabwe’s service sector and exploring innovative ways to elevate customer experience across the industry. This commitment reflects our belief that exceptional service is not a momentary action but an ongoing responsibility.

Transforming Branch Service: From Rigid to Responsive

The feedback about rigid branch (service centre) procedures struck at the heart of our service philosophy. Banks must balance regulatory compliance with customer convenience, and we acknowledge that our approach tilted too far toward inflexibility.

Staff Training and Empowerment Initiatives

We've invested significantly in comprehensive customer service training for all customer-facing staff, focusing on empathy, problem-solving, and situational flexibility. Our branch (service centre) teams now have authority to exercise judgment within regulatory boundaries, rather than defaulting to rigid adherence without consideration of individual circumstances.

Regular workshops on financial inclusion ensure our staff understands the challenges faced by different customer segments, from first-time account holders to diaspora Zimbabweans managing finances remotely.

Flexible Account Opening Procedures

Account opening procedures have been streamlined to reduce friction while maintaining full Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe compliance. Our team continuously makes improvements to the MyZB mobile app which leads to even faster, easier and clearer account opening procedures.

Branch (service centre) managers are also able to approve exceptions or make accommodations for customers facing unique challenges, provided alternative methods are viable. This flexibility ensures that you are heard, understood and served. And “service” is the very essence of our motto.

We Provide the Best Sustainable Financial Practices | SSCI Certification

As ZB Financial Holdings, we have achieved the Sustainability Standards Certification Initiative (SSCI) certification, making our subsidiary ZB Bank the first financial institution in Zimbabwe to receive this global sustainability certification. This certification demonstrates the company's commitment to integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its business strategy and operations. The initiative is led by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) and aims to foster sustainable financial practices in the country.

This certification is not just a recognition, it is a declaration of intent. It signals our readiness to lead in sustainable finance, not only in Zimbabwe but across Africa. As a Group, we have adopted SSCI standards as a strategic compass; guiding how we operate, innovate, and grow.

“This certification is not just a recognition, it is a declaration of intent. It signals our readiness to lead in sustainable finance, not only in Zimbabwe but across Africa. As a Group, we have adopted SSCI standards as a strategic compass; guiding how we operate, innovate, and grow.”

— Agnes Makamure, Chairperson of the ZBFH Board
Agnes Makamure

Your Rights and Our Commitments

As a ZB Bank customer, you have the right to fair treatment, clear communication, timely complaint resolution, and escalation pathways if you're unsatisfied with our response.

Our service standards include: acknowledgment of all complaints within 24 hours, substantive response within 48 hours, full resolution within 10 business days, and clear explanation of outcomes. If you're not satisfied with our resolution, you have the right to escalate to senior management and ultimately to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe.

We've also published our updated Complaints Handling Procedure on our website, ensuring complete transparency about our processes, timelines, and your rights throughout the resolution journey.

Moving Forward Together

Enhancing customer service is not a destination but a continuous journey. We're committed to ongoing improvement through regular customer satisfaction surveys, mystery shopping programs, and quarterly service reviews.

Your feedback remains essential to this fruitful journey. Whether you're sharing a complaint, compliment, or suggestion, every interaction helps us become the banking partner you need and deserve.

We invite you to experience the changes firsthand and to continue holding us accountable through your feedback. Together, we're building a banking relationship based on trust, responsiveness, and mutual respect.

Contact our dedicated Customer Experience team at any time through your preferred channel. We're here to listen, to learn, and to serve you better.

How to Effectively File ZB Bank Customer Service Complaints

ZB Bank customer service complaints are taken seriously when properly documented and submitted through official channels. Follow these five steps to ensure your complaint receives prompt attention and thorough resolution.

Step 1: Document Your Complaint

Gather all relevant information including dates, times, branch (service centre) locations, staff names (if known), transaction reference numbers, and a clear description of what happened. Take screenshots of digital interactions and save all email correspondence. Detailed documentation accelerates investigation and resolution.

Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Complaint Channel

Select the channel most convenient for you: in-person at any branch (service centre), WhatsApp (+263 772 442 685), online form (zb.co.zw/contact), phone, or social media. All channels receive equal priority, so choose based on your preference and complaint urgency.

Step 3: Submit Your Complaint with Key Details

Include your full name, account number, contact information, detailed description of the issue, what resolution you're seeking, and all supporting documentation. Request a complaint reference number for tracking purposes. You'll receive acknowledgement within 24 hours.

Step 4: Track Progress and Respond Promptly

Use your reference number to check complaint status through your submission channel. Respond quickly to any requests for additional information from our team. ZB Bank commits to substantive responses within 48 hours and resolution within 10 business days.

Step 5: Escalate If Necessary

If you're unsatisfied with the initial resolution, request escalation to senior management through your complaint handler. Should the issue remain unresolved, you can escalate to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. ZB Bank will provide all documentation needed for external escalation.

  1. ZB FIRST STREET

FAQ: ZB Bank Customer Service Complaints

How do I file a complaint with ZB Bank? +

You can file a ZB Bank customer service complaint through multiple channels: visit any of our 49 branches (services centres) nationwide, call our customer service hotline, use WhatsApp banking at +263 772 442 685, submit an online enquiry form at zb.co.zw/contact, or reach out via our social media platforms. Each complaint receives a unique tracking reference number, and you'll get acknowledgment within 24 hours.

How long does ZB Bank take to resolve customer service complaints? +

ZB Bank commits to acknowledging complaints within 24 hours and providing substantive responses within 48 hours. Standard complaints are fully resolved within 10 business days. For complex cases requiring extensive investigation, we provide weekly updates and revised timelines.

What if I'm not satisfied with ZB Bank's complaint resolution? +

If you're unsatisfied with our response, you can escalate to senior management by requesting escalation through your complaint handler. If the issue remains unresolved, you have the right to lodge a formal complaint with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe's Complaints Portal. We'll provide you with all necessary documentation and reference numbers to support your escalation.

What are my rights when complaining to ZB Bank? +

You have the right to fair treatment, timely acknowledgment of your complaint, clear communication throughout the resolution process, a thorough investigation of your concerns, and escalation options if unsatisfied. You're also entitled to confidentiality and protection from retaliation. ZB Bank is committed to upholding these rights for all customers.

Has ZB Bank improved its customer service based on complaints? +

Yes. ZB Bank customer service complaints have driven significant improvements including streamlined account opening procedures, reduced resolution times, enhanced staff training programs, flexible documentation requirements, multi-channel complaint submission, and empowered branch (service centre) managers with decision-making authority.

ZB FIRST STREET