Absa Business Banking partners with Network International to boost digital payments across Africa

Network International, a leading enabler of digital commerce in the Middle East and Africa, has been chosen by Absa Business Banking as its technology partner for digital payments. Through this collaboration, Absa will gain end-to-end payment processing capabilities via a single platform, supported by a fully outsourced managed services model.

The adoption of Payments as a Service (PaaS) is rapidly gaining traction in Africa, fuelled by the continent’s accelerating cloud adoption—now approaching levels seen in North America and China. Richard Kadiaka, Regional Managing Director, Southern Africa – Processing Services at Network International, described the deal as a “significant milestone” for the company, adding that the rise in cloud technologies has set the stage for fintech and traditional banks to rapidly innovate.

Modernising fleet and commercial card services

Fleet card fraud remains a costly challenge for businesses. With the rise of connected vehicles, digital payment channels, and demand for self-service management, enhanced stability and security in fleet and commercial card offerings are more critical than ever.

Absa’s partnership with Network International will bring advanced services to this sector, including:

• Card management for fleet and commercial prepaid cards

• Transaction switching and authorisation

• Integration with fleet management software

• Direct connectivity to Absa Bank systems

• Card tokenisation and digital wallets

• An online self-service platform

• Expense management solutions

Banie Claasen, Managing Executive for Lending Products at Absa Business Banking, said: “By combining our deep sector expertise with Network International’s technology, we’re empowering businesses with greater control, security, and transparency, while ensuring a frictionless payment experience.”

A new era for African financial services

Africa’s financial services sector is undergoing a period of rapid transformation. McKinsey projects the market could grow by 10% annually, reaching $230 billion in revenues by 2025. This growth is expected to include an expansion of omni-channel payment products as institutions recognise the need for safe, versatile, and customer-centric solutions.

With this partnership, Absa and Network International aim to meet the evolving needs of Africa’s digitally savvy customers, offering innovative products and services that strengthen security, efficiency, and trust.