Overview
Sudo Africa is a modern API-driven card issuing and payment platform specifically designed for African businesses. Founded by Aminu Bakori and Kabir Shittu, the platform enables developers and businesses to embed powerful financial features into their products through open APIs. The platform serves fintechs, microfinance banks, government agencies, e-commerce companies, and logistics providers across Nigeria and is expanding into other African markets. Sudo Africa addresses the critical gap in card issuance infrastructure, reducing the traditional weeks or months required by banks to just days for card deployment
Key Features
Virtual & Physical Card Issuance
Instant card creation through API
Programmable Card Controls
Location, spending, and merchant restrictions
Real-time Transaction Monitoring
Live transaction tracking and analytics
Custom Card Design
Branded card customization for businesses
Multi-channel Integration
Web, mobile, and POS compatibility
Expense Management
Corporate expense control and tracking
Digital-First Cards
Contactless transaction capabilities
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Fast card issuance (days vs weeks)
- Flexible API integration
- Advanced card controls
- Multiple business use cases
- Strong technical infrastructure
Limitations
- Limited to African markets
- Higher fees for small transactions
- Relatively new platform
- Limited customer reviews
- Requires technical integration
Security Features
Partnership Compliance: Maintains compliance with payment industry standards
Fraud Protection: Real-time fraud detection systems
Data Security: Encrypted data transmission
Transaction Controls: Granular transaction controls
Monitoring & Notifications: Real-time transaction monitoring
Pricing & Fees
| Service | Fee | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Platform Fee | ₦50,000 ($33) | Based on onboarding and platform access |
| Virtual Card Creation | ₦50 ($0.03) | Per the virtual card issued |
| Physical Card Production | ₦1,000 ($0.67) | Per the physical card issued |
| Interchange Fees | 1.5% - 2.5% | On successful card transactions |
| Authorization Fees | ₦10 - ₦50 | Per authorization request |
| API Calls | Variable | Based on usage volume |
Getting Started
Detailed Ratings
Final Verdict
Sudo Africa represents a significant advancement in African fintech infrastructure, offering businesses unprecedented control over card issuance. The platform’s API-first approach and rapid deployment capabilities address real market needs. However, limited geographical reach and higher entry costs may restrict accessibility for smaller businesses.