New mobile app combines Western Union’s global network with Sasai Fintech’s Payments-as-a-Service platform to enable seamless international money transfers.
Western Union and Sasai Fintech, a business of Cassava Technologies, have announced the launch of a new international money transfer mobile app tailored for South Africa’s consumers. The app is designed to meet the fast-evolving needs of an increasingly connected and mobile population, offering a seamless and reliable way to send money abroad anytime, anywhere.
Mohamed Touhami el Ouazzani, Head of Africa, Western Union, said: “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. 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.”
The collaboration combines Western Union’s global network spanning 200 countries and territories with Sasai Fintech’s Payments-as-a-Service (PaaS) technology. The platform provides a fully integrated, end-to-end remittance infrastructure including the technology backbone and the required licensing.
Customers can transfer funds to billions of bank accounts and wallets worldwide or arrange cash pick-up at hundreds of thousands of retail locations abroad. Transfers can be made through the co-branded Sasai and Western Union money transfer service using multiple funding options including Sasai’s retail network of more than 150,000 outlets, debit or credit cards and electronic funds transfers from bank accounts.
Darlington Mandivenga, CEO, Fintech and Digital Platforms, Cassava Technologies, said: “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 stablecoins, we’re redefining Africa’s payments infrastructure.”
South Africa is one of the most digitally engaged markets in Africa. According to the country’s 2023 General Household Survey, nearly 80% of households have Internet access, with almost 73% connecting through mobile devices. Market data shows that in 2024 outbound personal remittances exceeded US$1 billion.
The new mobile app is now available for download on Android and iOS smartphones, allowing customers to register, verify their identity and begin sending money globally within minutes.
