Zain Fintech, the digital financial services branch of Zain Group, has introduced the ‘Bede’ digital wallet in Sudan. This mobile-based platform is designed to enable users to perform a variety of financial transactions with ease, even if they do not have access to traditional banking services.
Features
Tailored for the Sudanese market, Bede is compatible with both basic mobile phones and smartphones, ensuring that a wide range of users can benefit from its services. During the initial launch phase, Bede offers key functionalities such as money transfers, airtime purchases, utility bill payments, merchant transactions, and cash services through an extensive network of authorized agents across the country. This launch event, held in Port Sudan, was attended by a range of stakeholders, including government representatives, ambassadors, financial institutions, and members of the media.
Bede’s rollout is being implemented in three distinct phases. The first phase focuses on delivering essential services. The second phase will expand its capabilities by linking the platform to more banks and introducing services such as electricity purchases and government payments. In the final phase, the platform will evolve to include full banking services, international money transfers, savings options, and financing solutions, as well as ensuring interoperability with all banks operating in Sudan.
Zain has built Bede in close coordination with the Central Bank of Sudan, ensuring that it adheres to the nation’s regulatory standards. The platform emphasizes data security, financial transparency, and customer protection, with several banks managing its trust accounts for accurate and accountable transactions. Bede also complies with anti-money laundering and anti-corruption laws, further reinforcing its credibility and trustworthiness.
At its core, Bede is a tool for financial inclusion, aiming to empower underserved groups, especially women, youth, and families. By simplifying daily financial activities and reducing reliance on cash, the digital wallet contributes significantly to Sudan’s journey toward digital transformation. Already successful in Bahrain, the service is expected to replicate its positive impact across Sudan and other Zain markets.
Zain’s launch of Bede aligns with its broader strategic initiative known as ‘4WARD – Progress with Purpose’, which focuses on expanding its role in the fintech ecosystem throughout the Middle East and Africa. The wallet represents a key step in delivering meaningful digital experiences that go beyond traditional telecom services, fostering economic participation and equal opportunities for all.