ITWeb TV Biz: How Intellergy is fixing SA’s broken payment reconciliation powered by AWS EEIP

Intellergy has developed a cloud-based platform called Hakela to address South Africa's fragmented payment reconciliation system. Founder and CEO Suman Moodley explained that businesses face complex issues when money flows through disconnected channels, causing data inconsistencies and the need for manual reconciliation. Hakela solves this problem by integrating various payment methods, including card-present payments and online digital formats, under a single platform.

The platform's name comes from the Tsonga word for paying or dispensing money, reflecting its South African origins. Hakela serves a wide range of clients, from small businesses to large enterprises and public sector services. Intellergy's pivot from consultancy to fintech products required a shift in mindset from project-based work to product development.

To ensure success, Intellergy focused on reliability, security, governance, and compliance. They built a cloud-native platform on AWS, which helped meet these criteria. Intellergy applied for the AWS Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (AWS EEIP) to receive support and structure. The AWS EEIP provided educational and mentorship resources, helping the company upskill and improve its operations.

Suman benefited from CEO mentorship, emphasizing the importance of a democratised management approach. AWS EEIP applicants also wrote essays detailing their motivation, helping Suman refine his vision. The programme imposed strict requirements, bringing a business discipline layer that strengthened Intellergy.

Since joining AWS EEIP, Intellergy has attracted talent from graduates and the fintech sector, expanded its market engagement, and created social impact, particularly in underprivileged areas. The company's TEA – trust, expertise, and authority – has been bolstered by the cloud infrastructure, providing security, governance, and performance capabilities. Intellergy's Hakela platform demonstrates the transformative power of cloud-powered fintech for the country.