Transforming Payment Infrastructure in Africa
Nigerian fintech startup Zone is spearheading a paradigm shift in Africa's financial landscape with its innovative blockchain-powered payment infrastructure. Founded by Emeka Emetarom, Obi Emetarom, and Wale Onawunmi, Zone has emerged as a pioneering force, leveraging cutting-edge technology to revolutionize payment systems across the continent. With a recent infusion of $8.5 million in seed funding, Zone is poised to scale its decentralized platform and redefine the future of digital transactions in Africa.
A Legacy of Innovation: From Appzone to Zone
With a decade-long legacy as Appzone, the company has been at the forefront of providing bespoke fintech solutions for banks and financial institutions across Africa. Recognizing the need for self-innovation, Appzone rebranded to Zone in 2022, embarking on a transformative journey into blockchain technology. This strategic shift birthed Zone, a licensed blockchain-enabled payment infrastructure company, and paved the way for the creation of Qore, a standalone entity focusing on banking-as-a-service solutions.
Unveiling the Blockchain-Powered Future
Zone's core concept revolves around developing an interoperable payment infrastructure using blockchain technology, transcending traditional limitations to foster seamless transactions. By eliminating intermediaries and leveraging blockchain's scalability, Zone connects banks and fintech companies, facilitating transaction flow with unparalleled efficiency and transparency. With over 15 of Africa's largest banks already onboard, Zone is poised to revolutionize the continent's payment ecosystem.
Driving Operational Efficiency and Transparency
Zone's blockchain architecture promises a myriad of benefits for both consumers and businesses. The platform's decentralized routing ensures reliability and scalability while automating reconciliation processes for swift dispute resolution and instant refunds. Moreover, Zone's instant settlement feature streamlines fund disbursement for merchants, addressing liquidity challenges and enhancing operational efficiency.
Pioneering Partnerships and Growth Initiatives
Backed by notable investors such as Flourish Ventures and TLcom Capital, Zone is primed for exponential growth. The recent funding infusion will fuel the launch of additional functionalities and the expansion of network coverage to encompass diverse payment channels. With a commitment to reducing onboarding timelines and democratizing access to digital payments, Zone is poised to set new standards of reliability, speed, and cost efficiency across Africa's fintech landscape.
Shaping the Future of Payments in Africa
Zone's innovative blockchain technology heralds a new era of payment innovation in Africa. With its transformative capabilities poised to drive down costs and enhance user experiences, Zone is positioned as a trailblazer in the global fintech arena. As the company continues to break barriers and forge strategic partnerships, its vision of a decentralized, inclusive financial ecosystem is poised to reshape the future of payments, not just in Africa but on a global scale.
