Paymentology and Union54 launch virtual debit cards on ChitChat

By Gloria Methri

Paymentology, the global issuer processor, has extended its partnership with Union54, a Zambian FinTech dedicated to providing secure messaging and instant payment systems. Building on the recent launch of Union54’s ChitChat—a messaging app with an integrated payment wallet—this collaboration introduces a USD virtual debit card to the platform.

Leveraging over two decades of expertise, Paymentology provides its next-generation payment platform to support Union54’s expansion of ChitChat in Zambia and other African markets.

Founded in 2021, Union54 has quickly gained prominence in Africa’s FinTech sector. Its flagship product, ChitChat, enables users to communicate, network, transfer money between wallets, convert USD to local currencies, and send in-app funds to other ChitChat users. With the help of Paymentology’s cloud-first, API-driven technology, users can now conduct both in-person and online transactions using their ChitChat virtual Mastercard debit card.

By integrating communication and secure financial transactions on one platform, Union54’s ChitChat has the potential to drive significant economic growth, foster entrepreneurship, and enhance financial inclusion throughout Africa.

Perseus Mlambo, CEO of Union54 said, “The internet has transformative potential for both individuals and governments. Our goal is to create secure and efficient spaces for communication and transactions. Partnering with Paymentology provides us with the reliability, security, and scalability needed to elevate our offerings. This collaboration will empower our customers with the advanced tools necessary for seamless communication and financial transactions.”

Kirsten Wortmann, Africa Regional Director at Paymentology, said, “We are thrilled to expand our collaboration with Union54, an organisation at the forefront of innovation in Africa and committed to making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Supporting the ChitChat app at this critical juncture in its growth is a testament to our shared vision of empowering users with safe and efficient payment solutions. We look forward to continuing our support and delivering next-generation solutions to serve the African market.”