Global payment infrastructure company Thunes has announced a strategic partnership with Ecobank Group, one of Africa’s leading financial institutions, to enable instant cross-border payments across 33 Sub-Saharan African countries. The collaboration aims to simplify remittances, promote financial inclusion, and boost regional trade by making it easier and faster for individuals and businesses to send and receive money across borders.
Through this partnership, Thunes will integrate its real-time global payment network with Ecobank’s extensive banking and mobile infrastructure, allowing users to transfer funds directly to Ecobank accounts, mobile wallets, and cash-out points. This integration eliminates the need for intermediaries and long settlement times that often slow down cross-border transactions.
Commenting on the partnership, Andrew Stewart, CEO of Thunes, said, “Africa remains one of the most dynamic regions for fintech innovation. Our partnership with Ecobank enables us to provide seamless, affordable, and secure cross-border payment solutions for millions of people, including those in remote or underserved areas.”
Jeremy Awori, CEO of Ecobank Group, echoed this sentiment, noting that the partnership aligns with Ecobank’s mission to drive digital financial inclusion across the continent. “By combining our pan-African network with Thunes’ cutting-edge technology, we are strengthening the infrastructure needed to power instant payments and enhance regional economic integration,” he said.
The partnership comes at a time when remittance flows into Sub-Saharan Africa continue to grow, reaching an estimated $54 billion in 2024, according to the World Bank. However, high transaction fees and slow processing remain significant barriers for consumers and small businesses.
By leveraging Thunes’ network and Ecobank’s presence across 33 markets, the collaboration is expected to transform how money moves within Africa, supporting cross-border trade, diaspora remittances, and digital payments — ultimately fostering a more connected and financially inclusive continent.
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