From CNBC Africa

Innovations in South Africa’s banking space are indicative of the continent’s ability to creatively merge technology into everyday’s life.

“It’s largely about what customers expect from the banks, where the industry takes us. [it’s about] also keeping an eye on technology and trends, and keeping a close look at where we should be going with banking,” Sahil Mungar, head of sales and marketing at First National Bank Mobile and Connect, told CNBC Africa.

“Largely you do it to cater for as many customers as you can, and that’s innovation: not leaving out anybody and keeping in touch with what your customers expect now and in future.”

First National Bank was the first innovator in the country’s banking space in terms of its mobile banking app, which was introduced in July 2011. According to Mungar, the introduction was at a time where smartphone penetration was significantly low in South Africa.

In April 2013, they were the first bank to also launch a banking tablet app for Apple, Andriod, Windows and Blackberry phones.

Written by Wilhelmina Maboja/Read more at CNBC Africa