Hibret Bank has announced the completion of an enterprise-wide architecture modernisation with WSO2. The project replaced legacy point-to-point integrations with a service-oriented architecture (SOA) and API-led connectivity.

The new platform is enabling Hibret Bank to streamline operations, launch innovative services faster, and collaborate securely with fintechs. This move aims to enhance digital banking experiences for its customers.

Hibret Bank, one of Ethiopia’s top five private commercial banks, operates more than 480 branches and employs over 9,000 people. Established in 1998, the bank is recognised for its customer-centric approach and its role in modernising Ethiopia’s financial sector.

To comply with regulations from the National Bank of Ethiopia, Hibret Bank deployed WSO2’s Micro Integrator and API Manager fully on-premises. This ensured strict data residency and security compliance, while giving full control over infrastructure. A phased migration allowed the bank to gradually move away from legacy systems, developing all new services on WSO2 from day one.

The modernisation has already shown results:

• Hibret Bank now processes over 80,000 monthly transactions across five integrations, with capacity to scale further.
• Mission-critical services such as Telebirr mobile banking, MPesa payment notifications, microfinance integrations including Awach, and Flygate airline payments are operational.
• Shortened development cycles enable faster onboarding of partners and quicker service launches.

The integration layer also supports long-term collaboration with fintechs and external partners. Real-time data sharing and streamlined connectivity have enhanced operational efficiency. Hibret Bank has established a dedicated integration unit to manage and expand its growing digital ecosystem.

“Implementing the WSO2 platform in-house demonstrated our team’s capability and the platform’s flexibility. With WSO2’s support, we rapidly delivered secure, integrated services that power our digital banking transformation,” said Nebyat Assefa, Chief Information Officer at Hibret Bank.

As the bank progresses toward its vision of becoming a pan-African leader, the WSO2-powered integration architecture is set to drive digital banking innovation, support ecosystem collaboration, and shape Ethiopia’s financial sector.

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