Financial field-management solutions specialist Pebuu eyes global expansion after growing Ugandan footprint

September 18, 2024 in Companies, Finance, Financial Services, Technology & Telecoms by Editor

Pebuu-CEO-Mr.-Ssemyalo-John-Paul-during-one-of-the-trainings-held-at-the-Pebuu-hub-to-equip-field-agents-with-monitoring

Field-management services fintech Pebuu, has expanded its area of coverage in Uganda to more than 320 locations, taking the portfolio of banking agents under its management to 20,000.

The firm offers real-time tracking and geo-mapping solutions that help financial institutions to efficiently manage agents and merchant service points, and achieve better operational oversight in real time.

Firms are leveraging Pebuu’s field management technology and know-how to transform the recruitment, monitoring, and supervision processes for bank agents—vital elements in maintaining a well-regulated financial services landscape.

Speaking at the company’s offices in Kololo, Pebuu chief executive John Paul Ssemyalo, described his firm’s expansion as aligning “with our mission to enhance operational efficiency, manage risk, and strengthen compliance at the grassroots level.

“As a technology firm, we are committed to deploying cutting-edge solutions that bridge service gaps and foster sustainable growth within Uganda’s financial sector and beyond,” Ssemyalo said.

According to the 2023 Uganda Banking Sector Report, the country had 22,217 registered bank agents by the end of December, with 76pc of them actively operating. The sector registered over 8.1 million transactions valued at UGX 15.1 trillion, with cash transactions—withdrawals and deposits—making up 78pc of total activity. Cash deposits alone accounted for 73pc of these transactions.

Ssemyalo says given the high volume and value of transactions within the agent banking network, the need for robust oversight has become paramount.

“Enhanced compliance frameworks and advanced monitoring systems are critical to mitigating risks and preventing unauthorized activities, safeguarding the sector, and advancing Uganda’s financial inclusion agenda. Pebuu’s strategic partnerships with leading financial institutions such as Stanbic Bank and Centenary Bank are further optimizing agent and merchant management, monitoring, and supervision efforts.”

Ssemyalo further observes that these initiatives align with Uganda’s National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2023-2028, helping banks efficiently extend their services to underserved, low-income, and rural populations, contributing to the nation’s broader financial inclusion goals.

“Our vision extends beyond Africa,” added Ssemyalo. “We aim to position our advanced technology solutions globally, establishing a strong presence in the growing field management solutions (FMS) industry for both consumer and government services.”

As part of this global strategy, Pebuu recently opened a new office in the USA to oversee its international expansion efforts, with a focus on seven key high-growth African markets, including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Uganda, Pebuu’s expansion emphasizes last-mile delivery solutions to improving service access and quality for low-income communities. Pebuu has also established regional hubs across Uganda to support its nationwide operations.

“Our regional hubs are designed to provide last-mile solutions while offering training for field teams, creating valuable opportunities for recent graduates to acquire skills necessary to thrive in the digital economy,” Ssemyalo noted.