Malawi’s NBS Bank has launched an e-commerce platform, powered by digital commerce enabler Network International.

According to a statement released to the media, the implementation of Network International’s N-GeniusTM Online payment gateway will enable NBS Bank to offer Malawian small and medium enterprises (SMEs), large corporations, public institutions and individuals “a fast and secure way to enter the rapidly growing e-commerce market in Malawi.”

Network International has been at the forefront of driving digital payments acceptance across Africa and the Middle East, offering end-to-end payment solutions to a growing client base in over 50 countries.

With the capability to enable digital commerce transactions for merchants and public organisations through the N-Genius™ Online payment gateway, NBS Bank and Network International will help drive Malawi’s goal of becoming a cash-lite economy, the partners added.

Kwanele Ngwenya, CEO, NBS Bank, Malawi said: “E-commerce is the fastest-growing form of commerce in the world. Understanding its role as a key driver of growth for our business, we have launched a world class e-commerce platform with leading payments solutions provider, Network International.

“As a first for Malawi, we are providing a sophisticated, yet low-cost solution, which will not only help grow, but further engage our customer base and help drive online commerce across many segments of the population in Malawi. By accommodating all payment types, offering the highest levels of safety and security and enhancing the mobile device experience, our online platform will help many businesses and sectors of the economy grow their online presence and help drive a digital and cashless society.”

Andrew Key, Managing Director, Network International Africa, said, “Network International already enjoys a long-term, successful relationship with NBS having helped the bank deliver many innovative products to their clients over the years, including both local processing and connectivity to international card schemes. Through utilising our proprietary N-Genius platform, Network is proud to provide NBS the latest cutting-edge technology. NBS have always challenged the traditional banking offering, through technology-driven innovation and we are delighted to support them as they look to increase online payment acceptance among the population of Malawi and the SADC (South African Development Community) region.”