Quick answer

The Payments Ecosystem Modernisation (PEM) Programme is SARB's umbrella initiative to deliver Vision 2030+. It coordinates RTGS renewal, ISO 20022 migration, governance reform (PASA to a Payments Industry Body), and the National Payments Utility concept. SAMOS sits at the centre of several of these workstreams.

What PEM is

PEM is the SARB's coordinated, multi-year, multi-workstream programme to translate the strategic objectives of Vision 2030+ into operational change across the National Payment System. It includes infrastructure modernisation, messaging-standard adoption, governance reform, access widening, and inclusion-focused product development.

Workstreams in PEM

  • RTGS Renewal — modernising SAMOS.
  • ISO 20022 migration — messaging-standard adoption across SAMOS and BankservAfrica.
  • Governance reform — transition from PASA to a Payments Industry Body.
  • National Payments Utility — design and build of a shared industry infrastructure.
  • Financial inclusion — improving access for under-served populations.

How SAMOS fits

SAMOS sits at the centre of the RTGS Renewal stream, ISO 20022 migration stream, and (indirectly) the National Payments Utility design.

TL;DR

  • PEM = umbrella programme delivering Vision 2030+.
  • Workstreams: RTGS renewal, ISO 20022, governance reform, NPU, inclusion.
  • SAMOS is central to several of those streams.
  • Multi-year, coordinated with industry.

Frequently asked questions

Who runs PEM?

SARB's National Payment System Department, with extensive industry consultation.

How long will PEM take?

Multi-year, with phased milestones. Specific dates are revised over the programme's life.

Is PEM only about technology?

No — governance, access, and financial inclusion are equal pillars alongside the technology modernisation.

Where can I follow PEM progress?

SARB's NPS Department publications and industry communications via PASA.

See also from our Ecosystem silo: Payment Clearing Houses (PCHs) in South Africa and PayShap vs RTC vs EFT: Choosing the Right Payment Method. For the foundations, return to the SAMOS homepage or browse the full Knowledge Hub.