Smilepay, a digital remittance platform backed by Kazana Group, has received formal authorisation from the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) to operate as a cross-border money transfer service.
With this licence, Smilepay becomes one of the few digital platforms approved to facilitate international remittances into Ethiopia under the country’s financial regulations.
Operations of Smilepay
Smilepay’s platform is already live and integrated with 29 Ethiopian financial institutions, allowing users to send money directly to local bank accounts or mobile wallets.
Designed with a focus on speed, security, and affordability, Smilepay aims to serve both individual and business users globally.
Currently, users in the U.S., Canada, the UAE, and South Africa can send funds to Ethiopia using dollar-denominated accounts.
The platform will soon support local currencies like AED, ZAR, and CAD, increasing flexibility for global users.
Smilepay expresses enthusiasm
“Smilepay is unlocking a new chapter of financial connectivity for Ethiopians at home and abroad,” said Muluken M. Bekele, CEO of Smilepay.
“We are honoured to have earned the trust of the National Bank and are fully committed to delivering safe, fast, and transparent remittance solutions. Continuous innovation is our north star—Smilepay isn’t here to follow trends, but to create them. Whether through traditional channels or next-generation digital rails, we’re building a future where anyone, anywhere, can move money with ease.”
“This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to driving financial innovation across Africa. Smilepay’s licensing is more than a business success—it’s a step toward empowering communities and strengthening economic ties between the Ethiopian diaspora and their homeland.” Addis Alemayehou, Chairman, kazana Group.
Smilepay’s services
Smilepay is a new financial app that aims to improve the speed, affordability, and security of cross-border money transfers, beginning with the remittance corridor between Ethiopia and the United States.
With quick, dependable transfers, Smilepay makes it easier for anyone with a debit or credit card to send money home, whether they are tourists, expats, diaspora members, or anyone else.
Smilepay allows users in the United States, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, and Canada who have dollar-denominated accounts to easily transfer money to Ethiopia.
Soon, local currencies like AED, ZAR, and CAD will be supported, giving users worldwide even more options.
Expansion plans to Europe
Smilepay intends to make it simpler for the African diaspora in the EU to transfer money home by extending its send-side coverage to important European nations.
On the receiving end, Smilepay will soon expand its reach around the continent by supporting more African nations outside of Ethiopia.
Smilepay, a Kazana Group portfolio company, is dedicated to providing reliable, technologically advanced financial solutions that enhance accessibility, dependability, and transparency throughout the remittance value chain.