No More Screenshot Hassles as Dashen Bank’s Super App Changes the Game

Imagine walking into a shop, restaurant, or hopping into a meter taxi without the need for cash, knowing they accept digital payments. It’s convenient—until you’re asked for a screenshot as proof of payment. Often, your phone is handed over to the cashier for verification, or transaction confirmations are photographed for manual reconciliation later.

This inconvenience arises because the individuals handling transactions—waiters, cashiers, or sales personnel—don’t own the account receiving the payments. Without direct access to verify payments in real-time, they rely on screenshots and manual checks.

But what if there was a better way? Enter Dashen Bank Super App, an innovative solution that eliminates these hassles and transforms the way we handle digital payments.

Launched just two weeks ago, the Super App is more than just a mobile banking platform—it’s an all-in-one financial ecosystem designed for both individual and corporate users. One of its standout features is the Merchant App, which addresses the issue of real-time payment verification.

Unlike traditional mobile banking accounts limited to a single user, the Merchant App allows multiple users to operate under the same account, similar to an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Account owners can assign different roles—such as cashiers, waiters, and sales personnel—with varying levels of access.

“Multiple payment access points can be generated via the Merchant App, with unique identifiers like numbers or QR codes assigned to these payment channels,” explained Yohannes Million, Chief Digital and Information Officer at Dashen Bank.

Payments made through these channels are instantly tracked, with the Merchant App displaying exactly where the payment originated. Employees can install the app on their devices and receive real-time alerts when payments are made, eliminating the need for screenshots or manual verification.

Additionally, the app leverages Ethiopia’s new Standard for Interoperable QR Code, launched by the National Bank of Ethiopia, enabling it to accept payments from any bank or financial provider. This interoperability not only streamlines the payment process but also sets a new benchmark for efficiency in digital finance.

The Super App also prioritizes security with its device tokenization system. This ensures that an account can only be accessed on the device it is registered on, even if someone gains access to the passcode. This added layer of protection gives users peace of mind.

The Super App doesn’t stop at payments. It introduces a suite of features designed to meet the diverse needs of modern banking customers. These include:

• Microloans: Based on transaction history, offering quick and convenient access to credit.

• AI-Powered Self-Onboarding: Simplifying identity verification for new users.

• Sharia-Compliant Banking Options: Providing interest-free banking solutions.

• Budget Management Tools: Allowing users to set spending limits for different categories and receive alerts when those limits are reached.

• Chat with Payment Integration: Enabling users to send money directly while chatting.

• Third-Party Mini-Apps: Creating an ecosystem for daily life, from lifestyle services to financial tools.

“The concept of mini-apps is limitless,” said Mr. Yohannes. “The largest super apps globally have millions of them, and we aim to expand similarly by partnering with various providers to enhance our users’ daily lives.”

Additionally, the app offers a virtual card for secure online payments, with features like mobile wallet and USSD access planned for future updates.

Dashen Bank first launched Amole in 2018 as an omni-channel financial platform that now serves over 6 million users. While the Super App represents a new chapter in digital banking, Amole will continue to operate, giving customers the flexibility to choose their preferred platform.

“We are proud of Amole’s achievements,” said Mr. Yohannes. “It will remain available, but the Super App takes our digital banking services to the next level.”

The Super App also ensures account security through rigorous measures. “It is not possible to use a single account on multiple devices,” Mr. Yohannes emphasized. “Currently, activation requires visiting a branch for KYC verification and receiving a one-time password (OTP).”

With its innovative features, enhanced security, and unwavering commitment to customer-centric solutions, Dashen Bank’s Super App is not just a tool—it’s a transformative gateway to the future of banking in Ethiopia. It exemplifies the Bank’s ethos of being "Always One Step Ahead," solidifying its position as a trailblazer and trendsetter in Ethiopia’s financial sector, while redefining the digital banking experience for its customers.