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Mama Money partners Access Bank, Paymentology to launch WhatsApp-powered bank card in SA

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Africa’s cross-border money transfer operators, Mama Money, has entered into partnership with Access Bank and Paymentology to launch a WhatsApp-powered bank card in South Africa.

According to Mathieu Coquillon, co-founder of Mama Money, “through its integration with WhatsApp, the Mama Money Card allows users to transfer payments internationally, buy electricity and airtime, download bank statements, check their balance and manage their account using the data-friendly messaging platform.”

He added that the innovation would make it much easier than traditional banks that often require proof of address to get a bank card.

“This is a key feature for Mama Money’s customers in South Africa, who are mostly from countries such as Zimbabwe, Malawi, Ghana, Nigeria, India and many more, to easily get a bank card that gives them access to fundamental financial services and the ability to send money to over 70 countries worldwide,” said Coquillon.

“Through Paymentology’s next-generation payment solution, the Mama Money Card also offers advanced security features that allow you to instantly freeze the card through WhatsApp in case of loss or theft.

“The Mama Money Card represents a significant step in empowering communities, particularly in aiding migrants.

“It provides a platform for secure employer payments, encourages savings, and ultimately contributes to the financial well-being of its users.

“By catering to the specific needs of a diverse customer base, Mama Money continues to dismantle financial barriers and promote inclusivity.

“In a nation where an estimated 4 million migrants reside with many not having access to essential financial services, initiatives such as this from Mama Money, powered by us, play a pivotal role in bridging the gap in financial inclusivity,” Drisha Kirkman, Head of Programme Management and Sustainability at Paymentology also stated.

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Kenya’s startup BuuPass partners with GiftPesa to launch digital travel vouchers

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Kenyan digital ticketing and transportation management solutions startup, BuuPass, has entered into a partnership with fintech company, GiftPesa, to introduce digital travel vouchers ahead of the holiday season.

In a statement by BuuPass cofounder and CEO, Sonia Kabra, the move will offer a more flexible and convenient way for Kenyans to manage and gift travel arrangements during the bustling holiday period.

“We’ve noticed a growing demand for digital solutions in the travel industry, especially during peak periods like the holiday season,” said Kabra.

“This partnership with GiftPesa enhances the travel experience for our customers, offering them a convenient way to send travel tickets as gifts and have a safety net for unconfirmed travel dates.

“Unlike traditional paper vouchers that can expire or get lost, GiftPesa vouchers are valid for 12 months and can be redeemed in parts at over 3,000 outlets across the country.

“This flexibility allows recipients to use the vouchers for multiple trips or select their preferred destination, making travel more accessible,” she added.

Founded in 2016 by Kabra and Wyclife Omondi, BuuPass is a leading B2B2C mobility marketplace that enables users to search, compare, and book travel tickets via web, app, or USSD, while its SaaS platform helps bus operators manage their operations, inventory, and sales.

GiftPesa, on the other hand, is a fintech startup that provides businesses and individuals with a platform for creating digital vouchers.

The partnership between the two companies will introduce digital travel vouchers, helping users manage and gift travel arrangements during the bustling holiday period.

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Ghana partners with The Gambia to provide free roaming services

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Ghana and The Gambia are in the process of launching free roaming services that will enhance a West African connectivity.

The plan which is a joint initiative of the Ghana Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation and The Gambian National Communications Authority (NCA) will see mobile users in both countries avoiding extra charges for calls, texts, and data, which in turn, is expected to boost trade, tourism, and economic integration across borders.

The collaboration, according to a joint statement by the two bodies, aligns with the Economic Community of West African States’ (ECOWAS) broader push for seamless regional communication.

“Ghana and The Gambia are forging new paths in West Africa’s digital landscape, implementing a free-roaming initiative,” the statement said.

“This move strengthens regional connectivity while highlighting the role of technological collaboration in fostering economic integration. The initiative enables mobile users travelling between the two nations to make calls, send messages, and use data services without additional roaming fees.”

It further noted that by reducing these costs, the program aligns with the ECOWAS Free Roaming Initiative, which seeks to eliminate barriers to communication across member states.

“It is a boost for trade and travel as the free roaming plan is expected to spur economic activities by streamlining cross-border communication.

“Businesses and individuals travelling between Ghana and The Gambia can now stay connected without worrying about exorbitant charges, facilitating smoother transactions and personal interactions. The initiative is also expected to attract more tourists by ensuring seamless digital access for visitors.

“This collaboration marks another milestone in Ghana’s commitment to expanding digital connectivity, following Ghana’s successful implementation of similar agreements with Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, and Benin, with talks of possible roaming partnerships with Liberia.

“By focusing on digital integration, Ghana and The Gambia demonstrate the power of technology to bridge gaps between countries. This step also serves as a model for other West African nations to join the free-roaming framework, contributing to the larger goal of a connected and economically integrated region,” it added.

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