Circle Expands USDC Into Africa Through Sasai Deal, Targeting Cross-Border Payments Boom

USDC integration into Sasai signals rising stablecoin demand for cross-border trade and FX stability in Africa.

Circle Internet Group agreed to a landmark partnership with Sasai Fintech, a unit of Cassava Technologies. The deal gives Sasai customers a way to pay using Circle’s USDC stablecoin across the USDC-linked network. For many users, this opens new options for both local and cross-border transfers.

USDC Integration Positions Sasai at Center of Africa’s Digital Payments Shift

Cassava’s Sasai platform runs a money-transfer app across about 30 African markets. Through the integration, customers can conduct transactions in USDC, a dollar-backed digital coin issued by Circle. 

According to the firm, the change supports new business activity for customers who need steady value during payments.

Strive Masiyiwa, Cassava’s founder and chairman, tied the move to broader financial access goals. He noted that adding stablecoin functionality could support commerce and help users manage costs associated with cross-border trade.

“Africa’s digital economy is entering a new era, driven by a mobile-first generation and increasing cross-border commerce and entrepreneurship. By integrating Circle’s USDC stablecoin into the Sasai platform, it will open up more business opportunities and drive financial inclusion on the continent,” Masiyiwa told Bloomberg.

Stablecoins Emerge as Lifeline in Africa’s High-Fee Remittance Market

Africa’s young, mobile-first population increasingly relies on digital services. Many residents also face high remittance fees and currency swings, especially when US dollars are scarce. 

Stablecoins like USDC can help reduce that pressure while acting as a hedge against local currency devaluation.

Circle co-founder Jeremy Allaire added that emerging payment corridors offer major demand for dollar-linked transfers. He said the arrangement also brings Circle’s stablecoin infrastructure closer to high-growth markets.

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