How Fintech Will Unlock Opportunities For EAC

Despite being a nation that’s just emerging from civil war, Somalia is carving out a new narrative of growth as it stands on the cusp of new era of entrepreneurialism and trade.

Its acceptance into the East African Community (EAC) is a significant stride in Somalia’s history. With a combined GDP of $305 billion and a population of 283.7 million, EAC membership offers a broader market, increased investment opportunities, and will connect the large Somalia diaspora within East Africa with home.

For two decades, the Somalian banking sector has been laying the foundations for Somalis to optimize on this opportunity. Its innovation journey is edged towards giving Somalia entrepreneurs the financial infrastructure to thrive. Entrepreneurs make up 76 percent of the population and prioritizing them will be the catalyst for trade with Somalia’s regional neighbours.

One of the leading banks in the country, Salaam Somali Bank has established itself as a key player in this transformation by introducing pioneering fintech services. Its mobile banking service, Deeqtoon was the first mobile banking service in Somalia.

Launched in response to a demand for service availability and a drive to expand service use capacity, Deeqtoon is now a cornerstone for transactions. The one stop platform offers services ranging from account-to-account transfers to electronic deposits and withdrawals, for both individuals and corporate entities.

Deeqtoon also acts as a bridge between formal and informal financial services, enabling the transfer of funds between mobile money and bank accounts, ensuring that everyone can play a part in the Somali economy.

Mobile banking with its accessibility and convenience, has eased access to banking services. This is in turn is creating new possibilities for economic participation and growth. Deeqtoon service’s volume use is equivalent to 45 percent of the bank’s market share.

“Deqtoon is unique service-oriented model that made our lives easier and simpler in many aspects while the service goes above and beyond our expectations” said Abdullahi Hassan Haidar from Somgas.

For Salaam Somali Bank, the customer must remain heart of innovation. To increase the safe and secure use of mobile banking, they’re also rolling out financial literacy programmes across their 55 branches in Somalia.

“As the banking industry transforms in the face of technological evolution, our commitment is to innovate with purpose and empower our clients. We envision a future where banking is not just a service but an experience that seamlessly integrates with the lives of our customers, fostering financial well-being and prosperity.” notes the Managing Director, Shuayb Haji Nur Mohamed.