A tribute to Pakistan

This week we saw the announcement if the MMT Award Winners at the MMT Conference in Dubai. Despite the event's global coverage I was amazed at the countries that made up the majority of the short listed nominations. In the majority of cases Pakistan and Bangladesh were represented, in some cases by two MMT operations. Given my belief in the South Asian markets, I found this quite pleasing.


Bangladesh and Pakistan both share similar population, mobile subscriber and banked statistics, both have 150 million plus population. Both share historical similarities for rural and poorer economic innovation. All this pointing to ideal markets for Mobile Money to thrive and show the world that Mobile Money doesn't only work in Kenya.


My connection with the markets run deeper, as I frequently visit the countries, continually encouraged by their understanding of the market and ability to innovate with entrepreneurial flair and a genuine enthusiasm for doing good for their country. Something that their common neighbor has struggled with for years.


Hence it warms my heart to see two of Fundamo's quiet achievers receive public recognition for their efforts. MCB Mobile and easypaisa, both in Pakistan have shown the world that Mobile Money can work even with domestic competition. Amaar Ikhas, formerly from MCB and his team always welcomed me with open arms, and encouraged me to try 'real' local cuisine.


In my opinion, the team at Telenor(easypaisa) have driven the accelerated maturation of Mobile Money Technology, pushing Solutions providers to raise the bar on the previously experimental state of the market.


A huge congratulations goes to MCB Mobile and easypaisa on their recent awards. But not forgetting Access Group, a local Pakistani Solutions company that has been the driver the success of these two and more in Pakistan.


Congratulations




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