Zain Fintech, the financial services arm of regional telecom giant Zain Group, has officially launched ‘Bede’, a new digital wallet platform in Sudan. Designed for both feature and smartphones, Bede lets users carry out essential financial transactions, like money transfers, airtime top-ups, bill payments, and more, directly from their mobile phones, without needing a bank account or card.
The wallet was launched during a high-profile ceremony in Port Sudan, attended by government officials, ambassadors, banking partners, and Zain executives. The service is now live across a wide network of certified agents throughout neighborhoods and local markets.
“This is a major leap toward digital transformation,” said Malek Hammoud, Zain Group’s Chief Investment and Digital Officer.
“Bede simplifies daily financial interactions and empowers families, women, and youth. It’s already successful in Bahrain, and we’re confident Sudan will follow suit.”
The name Bede comes from the Arabic word for “in my hand,” emphasizing its core mission: to give users complete financial control in a safe, secure, and easy-to-use platform. The brand design reflects a human-centered approach, blending clean visuals with bold, playful accents that promote financial empowerment.
Bede: Driving Digital Inclusion and Economic Progress in MENA
Bede isn’t just another wallet, it’s part of Zain’s broader ‘4WARD – Progress with Purpose’ strategy to expand its fintech leadership across the MENA and African regions. The launch in Sudan is being rolled out in three phases:
- Phase 1 includes core services like transfers and payments.
- Phase 2 brings in utility bill payments, government services, and more bank integrations.
- Phase 3 introduces banking services, international remittances, savings products, and full bank interoperability.
The platform operates under the regulation of the Central Bank of Sudan, and is aligned with national frameworks for AML, anti-corruption, and data protection. Multiple banks manage Bede’s trust accounts, ensuring transparency and secure settlements.
“We’re not just offering convenience,” said Hammoud. “We’re helping build a digitally inclusive economy, giving everyone the tools they need to thrive.”
From Zain Cash in Iraq and Jordan to Tamam in Saudi Arabia and now Bede in Sudan and Bahrain, Zain Fintech is driving innovation across the region. The group also plans to launch Bede in Kuwait, pending regulatory approval.
By providing accessible, reliable, and inclusive digital financial services, Zain continues to reshape the future of fintech in the MENA region, creating solutions that meet both immediate needs and long-term aspirations.
