Garowe, Somalia (Dawan Africa) – Tawakal Express has appointed Zakarie Hashi, MS, as its youngest-ever Chief Executive Officer (CEO). At just under 30 years old, Hashi's appointment signals a bold move towards a more digital-centric and youth-driven leadership, reshaping a sector historically led by older, established figures.
Zakarie Hashi's rise to CEO marks a critical moment for Tawakal Express, which has built a trusted reputation in global remittances since its founding in 1998. The company now operates in over 50 countries, serving migrant communities across Africa, Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Armed with a master’s degree and a strong background in fintech, data science, and strategic finance, Hashi is well-prepared to lead the company into a transformative phase.
For Hashi, finance is more than just numbers. It is about providing innovative solutions that empower families and businesses. His leadership philosophy combines technical acumen with a strong commitment to ethical values, positioning Tawakal Express for continued growth in the rapidly evolving digital remittance space. "Finance is about guiding the future of families and businesses," Hashi stated. "Our goal is to foster clarity, strategy, and integrity across our platform."
Under Hashi's leadership, Tawakal Express aims to expand its footprint in the remittance industry, targeting growth in regions such as Somalia, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Sudan, Djibouti, and South Sudan. The company already serves key markets in Europe, North America, and the Middle East, with over 500 employees and partners globally, delivering fast, secure, and reliable money transfers to diaspora communities.
A key focus of Hashi’s leadership will be the enhancement of digital services. Tawakal Express plans to expand its mobile wallet and online remittance platforms, with services like T-Plus and BananaPay aimed at underserved communities, particularly across Africa. These services will ensure that remittance solutions are accessible, transparent, and affordable.
Hashi's appointment is emblematic of a larger shift within the fintech industry, where younger leaders are bringing fresh perspectives to the table. As one of the youngest CEOs in the remittance sector, Hashi infuses Tawakal Express with new energy, driving the company towards greater technological integration.
His leadership emphasizes a tech-forward approach, positioning digital channels, such as app-based transactions, at the heart of Tawakal Express’s growth strategy. As global reliance on mobile and online platforms increases, Tawakal is poised to lead the way in remittance innovation.
Hashi's strategy will focus on several key areas: expanding mobile apps and digital wallets to meet growing demand for seamless remittance services, enhancing compliance and data security with a stronger focus on regulatory standards, and fostering stronger partnerships with global mobile money platforms like MPESA, MTN, and Airtel to enhance cross-border remittance services, especially in North America and Europe.
In a competitive global remittance market, the appointment of Zakarie Hashi reflects Tawakal Express’s strategic move to modernize and innovate. With his fintech expertise and commitment to ethical leadership, Hashi is the ideal figure to guide the company into the future.
With a clear focus on transparency, financial inclusion, and digital-first innovation, Hashi is spearheading Tawakal Express into a new era, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of the fintech revolution while continuing to empower diaspora communities across the globe.
