Western Union Partners with Sasai Fintech to Expand Digital Remittance Access for South Africa

Western Union and Sasai Fintech have launched a new international money transfer mobile application designed specifically for consumers in South Africa, expanding digital remittance access across the region.

The new app aims to meet the needs of South Africa’s rapidly growing base of mobile-connected consumers, offering a streamlined way to send money internationally at any time through smartphones.

“South Africa is home to a growing population of digitally savvy consumers, many with deep ties across borders, who seek ways to move money internationally with flexibility and confidence,” said Mohamed Touhami el Ouazzani, Head of Africa at Western Union. “Through our partnership with Sasai Fintech, we are bringing the strength of our global network directly to where people are—helping communities and families stay connected in an increasingly globalized economy.”

The collaboration combines Western Union’s global payments infrastructure—spanning more than 200 countries and territories—with Sasai Fintech’s advanced Payments-as-a-Service (PaaS) technology. The integrated platform provides end-to-end remittance capabilities, including the necessary licensing and digital infrastructure.

Through the app, users can send funds to billions of bank accounts and digital wallets worldwide, or opt for cash pickup at hundreds of thousands of retail locations internationally. Customers can fund transfers using debit or credit cards, electronic bank transfers, or through Sasai’s retail network of more than 150,000 outlets.

According to Darlington Mandivenga, CEO of Fintech and Digital Platforms at Cassava Technologies, the partnership represents a major step toward expanding financial inclusion across Africa.

“Our partnership with Western Union accelerates financial inclusion and delivers real value to Africans in the diaspora and their families across the continent,” Mandivenga said. “With our regulated assets, integrated technology stack, and innovations such as stablecoins, we are helping redefine Africa’s digital payments infrastructure.”

South Africa remains one of the most digitally engaged markets in Africa. According to data from the country’s 2023 General Household Survey, nearly 80% of households have internet access, with approximately 73% connecting through mobile devices.

Market data also shows that outbound personal remittances from South Africa exceeded $1 billion in 2024, highlighting the continued importance of cross-border money transfers for families, migrant workers, and diaspora communities.

The newly launched mobile application is available for download on both Android and iOS devices. Users can register, complete identity verification, and begin sending money internationally within minutes.

The partnership reflects a broader trend in the global payments industry, where fintech platforms and legacy financial service providers are increasingly collaborating to accelerate digital remittance services across emerging markets.

SOURCE: Western Union Holdings, Inc.