Neptune Solutions plc, a leading international software company, is to launch a branch in Addis Ababa in the next two months. The company is currently seeking office space and hiring local staff said Raymond Badanga, country Manger for Neptune in the country.
A significant market has been created in Ethiopia since the National Bank required all banks to interface with the National payment system according to Badanga.
It is to be remembered that Berhan International Bank became the first bank to interface with the National Payment Service installing Rubikon, Neptune’s CORE banking system.
Neptune has since participated in tenders floated by other banks to install similar software but is yet to get more clients. The company decided to open a branch in Addis Ababa by August to increase its chances of success.It is important to be present in-country to negotiate with prospective clients and to offer technical assistance beyond what can be offered through phone or email explained Badanga.
Neptune is also looking at new banks that are preparing to launch operations as well as the growing micro finance sector for which the company can offer its Orbit R software he added. The company is also interested in other banking services that will eventually become available such as mobile banking and credit reference bureau said Badanga.
Neptune Solutions was founded in 1999 in the UK. The company operates in several other East African countries such as Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Neptune was licensed in Ethiopia this last May and has registered this branch under its regional office in Kenya with a start up capital of 1.75 million birr.
Source: Addis Fortune
