SBS expands core banking tech to power microfinance growth in Africa

By Gloria Methri

SBS, a global financial technology provider, has announced the expansion of its core banking platform, SBP Core Amplitude, to better serve the needs of microfinance institutions (MFIs) across Africa.

Already trusted by over 220 institutions—including KCB Group, BGFI Bank, Orabank, Coris Bank, and microfinance networks such as Advans and Scolaris Finance—the enhanced solution will now support smaller-scale financial operations, such as microloans, payments, and savings products. The move aims to help MFIs comply with local regulations, scale efficiently, and drive financial inclusion across underserved communities.

Microfinance plays a vital role in expanding access to banking services in Africa, where over half the population remains unbanked. The global microfinance industry is expected to surpass $300 billion by 2026, with much of that growth driven by increased demand in emerging economies.

SBP Core Amplitude offers a unified core banking system with real-time data insights, 24/7 service availability, and seamless integration across mobile, web, and API interfaces. It allows financial institutions to centralise operations and expand their service offerings over time, helping them stay agile and responsive to customer needs.

Key benefits for microfinance providers include:

• Rapid deployment timelines for faster market entry
• Built-in compliance with local regulatory frameworks
• Scalable architecture that supports institutional growth

According to Camil Bennani Smires, General Manager of SBP Core Amplitude at SBS, the platform’s expansion will strengthen SBS’s reach among new and existing microfinance clients in 17 African countries. The initiative also aligns with the company’s broader mission to support financial institutions working to advance social goals such as education, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment.

As SBS deepens its footprint in Africa’s microfinance sector, it aims to provide the digital backbone for institutions, enabling more inclusive and sustainable economic growth.