Airtel Money, Mastercard Unveil Global Pay Card to Revolutionise International Payments

Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited (AMCUL), in collaboration with Mastercard, Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), and Network International, has officially launched the Airtel Money Global Pay Card, a prepaid virtual card designed to offer Ugandans a seamless and secure way to make international payments.

The Airtel Money Global Pay Card, available through the MyAirtel App, allows customers to load only the amount they need, providing better control over spending for services like e-commerce, entertainment, education, travel, and digital advertising. The card operates independently of the user’s day-to-day Airtel Money wallet, ensuring a safe, hassle-free experience for transactions in the global digital economy.

“We are thrilled to launch a product that underscores our commitment to offering innovative and accessible financial solutions to Ugandans,” said Japhet Aritho, Managing Director of Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited. “In partnership with Mastercard, Diamond Trust Bank, and Network International, we are opening doors to global opportunities, enabling our customers to engage confidently in the expanding global digital economy.”

The card is free to create, free to fund from the customer’s wallet, and free to withdraw, making it an ideal solution for users in Uganda’s fast-growing digital ecosystem. With a focus on secure transactions and seamless service, Airtel has invested heavily in upgrading its app, ensuring that users can enjoy the benefits of a connected and secure platform.

Aritho further highlighted, “Airtel’s investment in internet connectivity and the enhanced security of the MyAirtel App ensures that Ugandans can connect, transact, and do business in a secure, borderless way. Technological advancements require constant innovation, and we are proud to bring cutting-edge services to our customers.”

In the year leading up to June 2023, Uganda’s mobile money transactions surged to 191 trillion shillings, a 23% increase from the previous year. The Airtel Money Global Pay Card is poised to meet the growing demand for digital financial services, enabling Ugandans to access global services like online shopping, streaming, digital learning, travel bookings, and more.

Lenin Oyuga, Head of Telco Digital Partnerships for Mastercard, emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving financial inclusion. “The growing adoption of digital transactions in Uganda highlights the need for innovative solutions like the Airtel Money Global Pay Card,” he said. “We are confident that this card will offer Ugandans an exceptional digital experience.”

The card enables users to shop from global platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba, stream content on Netflix and Spotify, access educational platforms like Coursera and Udemy, and make travel and software subscriptions with ease.

“Uganda has a high penetration of smartphones, and accessibility is no longer an issue,” said Aritho. “This card offers full global control, whether you’re making an international purchase or providing parental control for your children’s entertainment. It’s easy to use, secure, and accessible to everyone.”

Dan Edoma, Country Director of Network International, celebrated the power of multi-partner collaboration. “This launch is a testament to what we can achieve when organizations unite to empower communities,” he said.

“Together, we’re building an ecosystem that drives innovation and simplifies transactions, helping businesses and students tap into the global market.”

Godfrey Sebaana, CEO and Managing Director of DTB Bank, expressed confidence in the transformative impact of the initiative. “This partnership empowers Africa, allowing users to access a digital card without the need for a physical one. It’s a secure, robust solution that simplifies transactions and enhances financial inclusion.”