Global money transfer service Western Union and Sasai Fintech, a unit of Cassava Technologies, have launched an international money transfer mobile app targeting South African consumers, the companies said on Wednesday.
The app is intended to tap into growing demand for digital cross-border payments in one of Africa’s most connected markets, allowing users to send money abroad via smartphones.
“South Africa is home to a growing base of digitally savvy consumers with strong cross-border ties who are seeking flexible and reliable ways to move money internationally,” said Mohamed Touhami el Ouazzani, Head of Africa at Western Union. He said the partnership would extend the company’s global network to mobile-first customers and help families and communities stay connected across borders.
The collaboration combines Western Union’s network spanning more than 200 countries and territories with Sasai’s payments infrastructure, which includes licensing and a fully integrated remittance platform.
Through the co-branded app, customers can send funds to bank accounts and digital wallets worldwide or opt for cash collection at retail locations abroad. Funding options include debit and credit cards, electronic bank transfers and payments through Sasai’s retail network of more than 150,000 outlets.
Darlington Mandivenga, CEO of Fintech and Digital Platforms at Cassava Technologies, said the partnership would support financial inclusion and strengthen payment flows between Africans in the diaspora and recipients across the continent.
"Backed by our regulated assets, integrated tech stack, super app platform, and innovations like stablecoins, we’re redefining Africa’s payments infrastructure," he said.
South Africa has one of the continent’s highest levels of internet penetration. The country’s 2023 General Household Survey shows nearly 80% of households have internet access, with about 73% connecting via mobile devices. Market data indicates outbound personal remittances exceeded $1 billion in 2024.
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The app is available for download on Android and iOS devices. Users can register, complete identity verification and begin transferring funds within minutes, the companies said.
