Mastercard in collaboration with Airtel Money and powered by Network International, have announced the launch of Airtel Money Global Pay, a secure and seamless virtual payment card designed for today’s borderless lifestyle.
Now available through the MyAirtel App, Airtel Money Global Pay will enable customers in Zambia to make international and domestic payments with ease directly from their mobile phones. This innovation eliminates the need for a traditional bank account, making it possible for anyone with an Airtel Money wallet to transact globally with confidence from the comfort of their homes.
Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises and Development, Elias Mubanga who officiated at the launch last night said, “This initiative is aligned with My Government’s vision under the 8th National Development Plan and the National Financial Inclusion Strategy. It complements our push for digital transformation, women and youth empowerment, and inclusive growth.”
“The innovation will allow our young innovators, tech start-ups, and creative industries to subscribe to digital platforms, software tools, and e-learning resources that were previously out of reach. This is how we nurture a new generation of globally competitive businesses.” Mubanga added.
“Our partnership with Airtel Money is a strategic step in expanding international secure digital payments across emerging markets like Zambia enabling customers to participate fully in the digital economy. With Airtel Money Global Pay, we are empowering consumers to pay, and get paid globally with confidence, security, and ease,” said Muhammad Nana, Senior Vice President Digital Partnerships and Enablers, EEMEA, Mastercard.
Airtel Mobile Commerce Country Director, Andrew Chuma said “At Airtel Money, we are committed to delivering innovative services that make everyday transactions simpler and more accessible. Through our partnership with Mastercard, Airtel Money Global Pay will enable customers in Zambia to shop, pay, and subscribe to services on global platforms directly from their mobile phones – with security, speed, and convenience built in. It’s about giving our customers more choice and greater access to the opportunities of a connected world.”
Access Bank Deputy Managing Director, Bobbline Cheembela said his bank was excited to be a partner with Airtel Money and Mastercard to bring to customers a product that supports Government’s vision of the digital transformation agenda.
By embedding a Mastercard-powered virtual card into the widely used MyAirtel App, Airtel Money Global Pay offers instant issuance, in-app top-ups, live foreign exchange rates, real-time spend controls, and global acceptance. The collaboration will also introduce enhanced features, including customizable card designs, instant activation, and real-time transaction monitoring for greater ease and security.
The initiative will help drive financial inclusion by widening access to the digital economy for both banked and unbanked consumers. Airtel Money Global Pay launched in Uganda and Tanzania earlier this year and now launches in Zambia with further rollouts in Gabon, Kenya, and Nigeria planned for the near future. Airtel Money customers will be able to register via the MyAirtel App and link their Airtel Money wallet to the Mastercard-powered Global Pay Card to enable online transactions.
This launch marks a significant step in Mastercard and Airtel Money’s shared ambition to empower more Africans with secure, convenient, and globally accepted digital payment solutions – unlocking new opportunities for connection and participation in the global economy.
