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20 Mar, 2024

Industry

5 Min Read

Key Takeaways

  • TCIB is transforming cross-border payments across the SADC region by enabling real-time, secure, and cost-effective transactions for authorised financial institutions. 
  • Built on the ISO 20022 standard, TCIB promotes interoperability, regulatory compliance, financial inclusion, and seamless regional connectivity. 
  • As a certified TCIB integrator, Sybrin simplifies onboarding and integration, helping financial institutions connect quickly and confidently to the scheme. 
  • TCIB provides real-time payments, enriched transaction data, robust security, and open-loop interoperability to support modern cross-border payment ecosystems. 
  • By combining TCIB with Sybrin’s regional expertise and integration capabilities, financial institutions can expand their reach, improve payment efficiency, and contribute to a more connected and financially inclusive Africa.

Following our announcement of becoming a certified integrator for the TCIB Payments Scheme, this article aims to create more awareness around this initiative, while also highlighting its benefits and exploring why Sybrin is ideally situated as a preferred integrator. 

 

Africa’s First Regional Payments Powerhouse

Cross-border transactions have long been marred by delays, high fees, and complex processes. But the winds of change are blowing, and the future of frictionless, secure, and affordable cross-border payments is here with Africa’s very first regional, homegrown cross-border payments system. 

Imagine a world where sending money across borders is as easy and instant as sending a text message. In the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, this vision is becoming a reality thanks to BankservAfrica’s Transactions Cleared on an Immediate Basis, or TCIB, for short.  

TCIB is a game-changer for regional integration. Built to level the playing field for businesses and individuals, TCIB empowers everyone with real-time, low-cost transfers across borders. Think multiple currencies, high volumes, and low values handled with lightning speed and robust security. It’s not just technology, it’s a regulatory-backed ecosystem ensuring trust and equal access for all authorised financial players.  

Participants in TCIB include commercial banks, authorised non-banks like Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Money Transfer Operators (MTOs), as well as existing closed-loop money transfer services seeking to widen their networks. These participants are set to gain numerous benefits, including: 

  • Regulatory Support: Endorsement by SADC BA and PSOC, leveraging a committed regional regulatory framework.
  • Scheme Management Support: A governance framework providing risk management and dispute resolution.
  • Inclusive Development: Opportunity to be part of TCIB’s evolution and to contribute to the scheme’s growth.
  • Instant Payments Clearing: Assurance of real-time money transfer and final, irrevocable transactions.
  • 24/7 x 365 Operations: A guarantee of continuous service, allowing transactions at any time.
  • Interoperability: An open-loop ecosystem that extends financial services reach.
  • Information-Rich Service: Centralised data management for enhanced business intelligence.
  • World-Class Security: Adherence to the highest security standards for participant peace of mind.
  • Messaging Standard: Built on the ISO20022 framework to align with global best practices.
  • Commercial Value: An affordable pricing model to promote financial inclusion.

Aside from the participants in the SADC region, integration points are also available into other African regions including the East African Community (EAC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa and East African Community (COMESA). 

TCIB’s introduction is a call to action for potential participants to join this growing network. However, navigating the TCIB onboarding process can seem complex, but rest assured, we’ve got you covered! 

Sybrin TCIB Integration: Your Visa-Free Passport to SADC Cross-Border Payments

As a leader in Africa’s digital financial landscape, we have joined forces with BankservAfrica, the trusted financial infrastructure provider, for a giant leap towards a digitally driven financial renaissance within the SADC region. 

The TCIB scheme, underpinned by the ISO 20022 messaging standard, positions us as an integral player in enhancing the financial inclusivity and connectivity among SADC member countries. This initiative is supported by a robust legal framework and scheme rules designed to protect all participating entities. By aligning with BankservAfrica, we assistin simplifying the TCIB enablement process, ensuring that member institutions can easily integrate into this transformative financial network. The synergy between our technological capabilities and BankservAfrica’s trusted financial infrastructure creates an unprecedented opportunity for financial entities across the SADC region to join an expanding network, opening up new markets and corridors previously untapped. Together, we strive to simplify the complexities of financial transactions and foster a conducive environment for economic growth and development. 

In essence, Sybrin and BankservAfrica’s collaboration through TCIB is a testament to our commitment to driving financial inclusion, delivering value to stakeholders, and bolstering the financial well-being of the SADC region.

TCIBDiagram scaled

Key Features

Real-Time Transactions

Accelerating the speed of cross-border payments, enabling instant clearing and differed settlement.

Inclusivity

Open to all authorised financial service providers, including commercial banks and authorised non-banks.

    Compliance and Security

    Adherence to ISO20022 standards and a commitment to world-class security protocols.

    Interoperability

    Facilitates an open-loop payments ecosystem, offering expansive market access.

    Data-Driven Insights

    Provides enriched transaction data, enhancing visibility for financial institutions.

    Cost-Effectiveness

    Structured to be economically viable for participants, promoting financial inclusion.

    Meet the Leaders: Guiding Financial Institutions Towards Success

    At the helm of this transformative initiative are industry leaders Brendon Paul, CEO of Sybrin Africa, and Avinash Naidoo, Payments Product Manager. With their expertise and guidance, financial institutions navigating the TCIB onboarding process can expect tailored support and seamless integration into the TCIB network.

    Brendon leads Sybrin’s expansion in Africa, ensuring that Sybrin’s solutions are tailored to the unique needs of the African market, aligning with regional regulatory frameworks to add value to the financial ecosystem.


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    Brendan Paul
    Chief Operations Manager

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    Together with his team, Avinash oversees the development and management of payment products, focusing on delivering products that are not only compliant with international standards, but also resonate with the market demands of the SADC region.


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    Avinash Naidoo
    Product Manger: Payment and Clearing

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    Contact Sybrin’s leadership team today and unlock the potential of this transformative payment scheme. With our expertise and BankservAfrica’s partnership, you can seamlessly integrate, boost your reach, and contribute to a more connected and financially inclusive SADC region.