One of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s leading financial institutions, Rawbank, is expanding its digital banking capabilities through a strengthened partnership with French banking technology provider SBS. The initiative, announced on 20 October 2026, aims to simplify financial services, accelerate digital account opening and improve banking access for individuals and businesses across one of Africa’s largest emerging markets.
A major step towards digital banking
Rawbank has selected the SBS Digital Banking Suite to modernise its mobile and online banking services.
The new technology will complement SBS Core Amplitude, the banking infrastructure already used by Rawbank to manage its financial operations.
By integrating the two platforms, the bank intends to introduce new digital features more efficiently while reducing its dependence on traditional branch-based services.
Customers are expected to benefit from improved mobile applications, simplified payments, easier card management and faster digital account registration.
Expanding financial inclusion in Central Africa
The Democratic Republic of Congo, with a population exceeding 100 million, represents a substantial opportunity for digital financial services.
However, access to conventional banking remains limited, particularly outside major urban centres.
Mobile money has become an important alternative, allowing millions of consumers to transfer funds and make payments without relying on traditional banking infrastructure.
Rawbank’s initiative seeks to bridge the gap between mobile financial services and formal banking.
For individuals, entrepreneurs and small businesses, more accessible digital accounts could improve financial management and reduce the time and expense associated with visiting physical branches.
Technology partnership supports expansion
SBS provides banking software to more than 1,500 financial institutions across approximately 80 countries.
Its technology supports core banking operations, payments, lending and digital customer services.
Rawbank’s Chief Information Officer, Arvind Kumar, described technological innovation as an important element of the bank’s development strategy.
The new platform is expected to accelerate product development and help the institution respond to changing customer expectations.
Neither a commercial contract value nor a definitive implementation timetable has been publicly disclosed.
Growing competition in African digital finance
The development reflects a broader transformation of Africa’s banking sector.
Traditional banks increasingly compete with mobile money operators, fintech companies and digital-first financial institutions.
Rather than relying exclusively on branches, financial institutions are investing in digital onboarding, mobile payments and technology capable of serving customers across geographically dispersed markets.
The commercial opportunities are considerable, particularly among small businesses and consumers who remain underserved by conventional banking.
A changing financial landscape
For the Democratic Republic of Congo, expanding digital banking could support domestic commerce, entrepreneurship and broader participation in the formal economy.
However, successful implementation will depend on reliable connectivity, affordable services, cybersecurity and consumer confidence.
Rawbank’s latest investment in banking technology underlines the growing importance of digital infrastructure in Africa’s financial development.
NewsHub Finance | Africa / Digital Banking | 24 October 2026
One of the Democratic Republic of Congo's leading financial institutions, Rawbank, is expanding its digital banking capabilities through a strengthened partnership with French banking technology provider SBS. The initiative, announced on 20 October 2026, aims to simplify financial services, accelerate digital account opening and improve banking access for individuals and businesses across one of Africa's largest emerging markets.
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