Zain Fintech, the financial services arm of Zain Group, launched its “Bede” Digital Wallet in Sudan, enabling customers to carry out financial transactions via mobile phones without a traditional bank account or card.
The platform, designed for both basic feature and smart phones, offers services for Sudan’s mobile users.
Initial offerings include person-to-person money transfers, airtime top‑ups, bill payments, merchant purchases and cash deposits and withdrawals through a network of certified agents.
The launch ceremony in Port Sudan was attended by representatives of the Sovereign Council, federal and state ministries, ambassadors, Zain management, industry specialists, banking partners and media.
The event highlighted the company’s commitment to driving digital transformation and financial inclusion. Banking penetration in Sudan remains low, creating an opportunity for mobile-based services.
Bede, which has been successfully deployed in Bahrain, has earned a reputation for efficiency, ease of use and reliability. Zain Fintech said it expects to replicate this performance in Sudan and other markets where Zain operates.
Zain Fintech is part of Zain Group, which operates in eight markets across the Middle East and Africa. It aims to boost financial access in Sudan.
The rollout of Bede in Sudan will occur in three phases. The first phase covers the initial service launch, the second includes integration with additional local banks and expanded services such as electricity purchases and government transactions.
The third will introduce banking features, international remittances, savings and financing products with full interoperability across all banks.
Bede operates under strategic partnerships and in compliance with Central Bank of Sudan regulations, with several banks overseeing trust accounts to ensure transparent settlements and financial reporting.
“The introduction of Bede in Sudan represents a step towards empowering families, women and youth by simplifying everyday financial interactions,” said Malek Hammoud, chief investment and digital officer at Zain Group.