Clea, a blockchain-powered payments platform designed to simplify cross-border trade for African businesses, has officially launched following a pilot phase that processed more than $4 million in international transactions, signaling growing demand for faster and more reliable payment solutions across the continent.
African importers have long faced obstacles when settling invoices with overseas suppliers. Limited access to foreign currency, volatile exchange rates, high banking fees and prolonged processing times often disrupt supply chains. These challenges are compounded by Africa’s estimated $120 billion annual trade-finance gap, which continues to constrain access to dependable financial infrastructure.
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Clea aims to address these constraints by allowing businesses to make payments locally while settling directly with international suppliers in U.S. dollars. Using blockchain technology, the platform enables transactions that are transparent, traceable and executed without reliance on multiple traditional banking intermediaries, reducing delays and operational friction.
The company was founded by Sheriff Adedokun, Iyiola Osuagwu and Sidney Egwuatu, drawing on their firsthand experience navigating unreliable cross-border payment systems. Clea currently supports Nigerian importers trading with suppliers in key global markets, including the United States, China and the United Arab Emirates, and plans to expand into additional trade corridors.
Through the platform, importers can pay in naira while accessing U.S. dollar liquidity, with settlement options ranging from same-day to next-day processing. Transactions are completed in the importer’s own name, a structure designed to reduce fraud risk and strengthen trust with international partners.
“Delayed or rejected payments create unnecessary strain for importers and suppliers alike,” said Sheriff Adedokun, Clea’s chief executive and co-founder. “Clea removes that uncertainty by delivering secure, traceable payments that suppliers can trust from the outset.” Iyiola Osuagwu, the company’s chief technology officer and co-founder, said Clea’s goal is to make cross-border trade feel as seamless as domestic transfers. “By connecting local currencies to global transactions through blockchain infrastructure, we are breaking down long-standing barriers that have limited African importers for years,” he said.
Clea is already working with shipping operators that refer merchants to the platform and is engaging with trade associations and logistics networks in major import hubs. While the company remains fully bootstrapped, it is open to partnerships with strategic investors aligned with its long-term vision.
Looking ahead, the company plans to scale operations across all 36 Nigerian states and expand payout routes across Africa and beyond. “Our focus is on building dependable financial infrastructure that genuinely supports the growth of African businesses,” said Sidney Egwuatu, Clea’s chief operating officer and co-founder.
