Western Union Expands Digital Remittance Access in South Africa Through Sasai Fintech Partnership
Western Union and Sasai Fintech, a subsidiary of Cassava Technologies, have launched a new international money transfer mobile application designed specifically for consumers in South Africa.
The platform aims to address the needs of a rapidly growing mobile and digitally connected population by providing a convenient and dependable way for users to send money abroad easily, any time, and from any location.
“South Africa, is home to a growing population of digitally savvy consumers, many with deep ties across borders, that seek ways to move money internationally with flexibility and confidence,” said Mohamed Touhami el Ouazzani, Western Union’s Head of Africa.
“We are delighted then that our partnership with Sasai Fintech allows us to bring the strength of our global network to where people are, enabling South Africa’s consumers to connect with the world, unlocking opportunity and helping communities and families thrive in an increasingly globalized economy.”
This partnership brings together Western Union’s extensive global network across more than 200 countries and territories and Sasai Fintech’s advanced Payments-as-a-Service (PaaS) technology. The integrated remittance platform provides both the technological infrastructure and regulatory licensing required for international transfers. Through the co-branded Sasai and Western Union service, customers can send money to billions of bank accounts and digital wallets globally or opt for cash pickup at hundreds of thousands of retail locations abroad. Users can fund their transfers through Sasai’s retail network of over 150,000 outlets, as well as debit or credit cards and electronic bank transfers.
Darlington Mandivenga, CEO, Fintech and Digital Platforms at Cassava Technologies, highlighted, “Our partnership with Western Union accelerates financial inclusion and delivers real value to Africans in the diaspora and their families across the continent. Backed by our regulated assets, integrated tech stack, super app platform, and innovations like stable coins, we’re redefining Africa’s payments infrastructure.”
As one of Africa’s most digitally engaged markets, South Africa is experiencing growing demand for mobile financial services. Data from the 2023 General Household Survey shows that almost 80% of households have internet access, with roughly 73% accessing it through mobile devices. In 2024 alone, outbound personal remittances surpassed USD 1 billion.
The newly launched app, now available on Android and iOS smartphones, allows users to easily register, complete identity verification, and begin transferring money internationally in just a few clicks.
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