Airtel Africa & Mastercard team to launch new cross-border remittance service

By Delisha Fernandes

Airtel Africa and Mastercard have launched a new cross-border remittance service to enable Airtel subscribers across 14 African markets to send and receive money safely and securely.

This innovative service will be rolled out in a phased approach to provide consumers with a seamless digital experience connecting them to millions worldwide.

Ian Ferraro, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Money, said, “We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Mastercard as we work together to roll out a world-class remittance service to our customers. At Airtel Africa, we are deeply committed to transforming the lives of our customers through innovative and accessible financial solutions, and this partnership is a significant step towards that goal. We believe every individual deserves the chance to succeed, and we are proud to play a part in making that vision a reality.”

Through a single and secure point of access, Mastercard cross-border services will support the outward transfer of funds in a phased manner across each of the 14 African markets where Airtel has a presence.

This includes Chad, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Seychelles, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. Through timely delivery, secured transfers and reasonable transaction costs, the platform will connect consumers to wallets in over 145 markets.

“The digital economy continues to grow and expand, and by rolling out this exciting, seamless remittance service, we are making it easier for more people to transfer funds with ease, security and certainty. As a global technology company with a long history in Africa, Mastercard is committed to the continent’s growth and connecting its people to convenient digital solutions that will enable a more financially inclusive future for all,” said Ngozi Megwa, Senior Vice President, Digital Partners and Enablers, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, Mastercard.