December 26, 2022 | Mogadishu, Somalia — In a landmark event that blended innovation, leadership, and Somali culture, the official launch of eBesa—a next-generation mobile money service—was held in Mogadishu. The launch was officiated by H.E. Hamza Abdi Barre, Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia, serving as Chief Guest, underscoring the government’s commitment to advancing digital financial inclusion.
The high-level ceremony drew an audience of national leaders, financial regulators, academic figures, and media influencers. Distinguished guests included Mayor of Mogadishu, Mr. Yusuf Hussein Jimale; Governor of the Central Bank of Somalia, Mr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi; Minister of Finance, Dr. Elmi Mohamed Nur; Director-General of the National Communications Authority, Mr. Mustaf Yasin; and Chairman of the Somali Bankers Association, Mr. Ahmed Shirwa.
Also in attendance was Dr. Mohamed Mohamud Hassan, Chairman of the Association of Somali Universities (ASU) and Rector of Benadir University, highlighting the important link between education, innovation, and financial empowerment.
A keynote address was delivered by Mr. Abdirizak Warsame, Vice-Chairman of IBS Bank, who emphasized eBesa’s bold vision and its potential to transform access to financial services for millions of Somalis.
“eBesa is not just a mobile wallet—it is a national infrastructure built to serve everyday needs and drive inclusive economic growth,” Mr. Warsame stated. “It merges the reach of telecommunications with the trust of formal banking.”
Shueib Mohamud Mohamed, Head of Marketing at IBS Bank, took the stage to present the platform’s capabilities. He emphasized that eBesa is the only mobile money service in Somalia offering both USSD and mobile wallet app channels, making it uniquely accessible to all users—regardless of their device or location.
“Whether you have a smartphone or a basic mobile phone, you can access secure, fast, and convenient financial services with eBesa,” Shueib explained. “It’s designed for everyone—from urban entrepreneurs to rural families.”
Key Features of eBesa:
- Send & Receive Money
- Bill Payments
- Group Savings
- eBesa Virtual Mastercard
- Buy Airtime and Data
- eBesa Global
- Withdraw and Deposit
- Link with IBS Bank Account
- Request Money
eBesa is licensed and regulated by the Central Bank of Somalia as a mobile money operator and is powered by SomLink Telecom, ensuring both compliance and technological reliability at the highest standard. Built by IBS Bank, the platform bridges the gap between formal banking and the daily financial needs of individuals, businesses, and communities.
The launch ceremony was also a cultural celebration, featuring live entertainment by popular Somali singers, comedians, and social media influencers, who energized the audience and added a uniquely Somali touch to the event.
As Somalia continues its digital transformation, eBesa stands as a pioneering solution—secure, inclusive, and built for the future.
eBesa: Powered by Innovation. Driven by Inclusion. Built for Somalia.
