CRDB Bank, the largest private universal bank in Tanzania, has partnered with BPC, a global leader in payment solutions, to migrate its acquiring and issuing systems to a BPC’s next-generation SmartVista platform. The strategic move enabledCRDB Bank to expand its operations across Tanzania, Burundi, and DR Congo, in line with its commitment to delivering secure and innovative banking experiences to its customers.
CRDB Bank sought a modern scalable multi-institutional technological platform with the capacity for instant innovative card product launches, advanced integrational capabilities andaffordable total cost of ownership. Migrating to SmartVista platform enabled CRDB Bank to consolidate its entire multi-country ecosystem under one microservices architecture, boosting operational efficiency while fully aligning with the national regulations and the international scheme certifications.
BPC migrated issuing and acquiring functionality of CRDB Bank, its subsidiaries in Burundi and DR Congo, and affiliates such as Amana, Vision Fund, and KCBL(now part of bank CBT). The revamped card issuing capabilities extend from ability to issue any type of card from corporate, virtual, proprietary, loyalty, specialized cards like fuel and hospital cards to internationally branded cards Visa, Mastercard, and UPI. On the acquiring side, CRDB Bank now accepts global brands across all of its POS network, as well as offering cardless withdrawals, foreign exchange at ATMs and advanced services like utility payments and dynamic currency conversion.Leveraging advanced integration capabilities of SmartVista platform, CRDB Bank has connected its core modules with own mobile banking (Simbanking) and agency banking (Wakala), facilitating seamless, omnichannel experiences for its customers through entire multi-institutional network.
Through the adoption of BPC’s next-generation platform, CRDB Bank benefits from the new modular infrastructure that has ensured seamless integration of all applications and components and compliance with international schemes and PCI-DSS standards, has offered instant onboarding of affiliate institutions to the CRDB platform, and boosted flexibility for continuous innovations. Over 4.5 million cards have already been issued through the upgraded issuing platform, marking a significant milestone in CRDB Bank’s digital transformation journey.
Abdulmajid Nsekela, Group CEO for CRDB Bank, said:
“Migrating our switch and card management systems to BPC’s platform has significantly expanded our issuing and acquiring capabilities. This strategic partnership provided us with tools to keep up with our goal to offer modern, secure, and convenient banking services, while remaining true to our commitment to customers throughout Tanzania, Burundi, DR Congo and beyond. We look forward to deepening our partnership with BPC to continually enhance the digital experiences we provide.”
Grant Truter, Chief Commercial Officer: Business Development and SaaS Operations – MEA, BPC, commented: “It is an honor to have CRDB place its trust in BPC’s expertise for this critical legacy migration. We specialize in delivering scalable, future-proven solutions that empower our customers to expand their networks and bring payment innovations to their customers. Through our next-generation SmartVista platform, we support CRDB’s vision of providing modern banking experiences and help them drive financial inclusion and innovation.”
About CRDB Bank
CRDB Bank Plc. (B1, Stable by Moody’s) is the largest bank in Tanzania and one of the most innovative banks in East and Central Africa, with a balance sheet of TZS 17.7 Trillion ($6.6 billion) as at 31 March 2025. Established in 1996, the bank has grown to become a trusted partner for individuals, businesses, and institutions across the region. Headquartered in Dar es Salaam, CRDB Bank is publicly listed on the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange (DSE) and is known for its strong financial performance, customer-centric approach, and pioneering spirit in financial services. The bank operates beyond Tanzania’s borders, with fully licensed subsidiaries in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The bank also runs a fully-fledged insurance company, CRDB Insurance Company, and has established CRDB Bank Foundation as its social impact arm. CRDB Bank offers universal banking solutions, including retail, corporate, SME, and capital markets. Its digital offerings—such as mobile banking and internet banking—have enabled the bank to drive financial inclusion through serving over five million customers across urban and rural areas. With a network of over 260 branches, 36,000+ CRDB Wakala agents, 5,000 POS devices, and a rapidly expanding digital footprint, CRDB Bank is committed to making banking accessible and convenient. CRDB Bank’s strategy for 2023–2027 is anchored on three strategic pillars, which guide the bank’s focus on strengthening its core operations, expanding its reach, and embracing innovation to deliver exceptional value to customers and stakeholders. In its strategy, the bank has highlighted the transformative impact of partnerships, and aims to continue building strategic alliances for sustainable business growth. CRDB Bank received 50 accolades in 2024, including being named the “Best Bank in Tanzania” by Global Finance and EMEA Finance, and “The Most Innovative Bank” by International Business Magazine. These recognitions affirm CRDB Bank’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and sustainability. At the heart of the bank’s mission is a commitment to inclusive growth and national development. Through impactful corporate social investment programs and sustainable finance initiatives, CRDB Bank is driving change in key sectors such as education, health, and environmental protection. With a strong capital base, sound governance, and a visionary leadership team, and a commitment to inclusive growth, CRDB Bank Plc is well-positioned to shape the future of banking in Africa empowering communities, enabling businesses, and transforming lives.
