Former Solaris execs to launch fintech start-up Zazu for African SMEs
Former Solaris execs Rinse Jacobs and Germain Bahri are preparing to debut a new venture called Zazu, a fintech start-up built to provide inclusive business banking services and financial management tools to underserved SMEs in Africa.
Zazu to launch for African SMEs
“Zazu combines everyday banking with value-added tools like invoicing, bookkeeping, and cash flow management,” Jacobs writes in an announcement posted on LinkedIn.
He says this combination is intended to make banking “feel less like an obstacle and more like a catalyst for growth”.
“We realised that Africa presents a unique opportunity for a better banking experience – especially for SMEs and entrepreneurs who are still underserved by traditional (financial) institutions,” he continues.
Jacobs will take on the role of CEO of the start-up, based in Cape Town, South Africa, with Bahri taking on the role of chief growth officer (CGO).
According to Jacobs, over 300 SMEs have already joined the waiting list for the platform, which has secured 15 integration partnerships with business service platforms including Lula, Shopstar, Xero, Govchain, Outsourced CFO, Stub Africa and Mansa AI.
Jacobs confirms that the minimum viable product (MVP) for Zazu is now ready for launch, pending final regulatory approvals.
