Tech Providers Collaborate to Boost African Payment System
Emma Okonji
MasterCard and Global Technology Partners (GTP), the repaid processing and payments solutions provider, have signed a partnership agreement that will result in the latest prepaid solutions being made available across Africa, to government institutions, financial services and corporate sector and consumers.
The partnership will enable the development and implementation of a wide range of solutions across various markets on the continent. These solutions are aimed at supporting government payments, driving innovation in the travel and tourism sector and driving transparency and efficiency for the financial services and corporate sector.
Announcing the partnership deal recently, Division President, sub-Saharan Africa at MasterCard, Daniel Monehin, said; “African economies are in support of driving cash out of the financial system, and the introduction of digital payment solutions is in line with their cashless strategies. Businesses on the continent need smart solutions that will provide efficiency, but also offer convenient ways to track and monitor expenditure.”
He said by providing MasterCard prepaid card solutions it would strengthen GTP’s existing offering in Africa, and provide consumers greater access to payment systems, international travel, and online shopping. Prepaid cards also provide employers with an effective payroll solution, introducing a more efficient and transparent way for businesses to monitor expenditure.
Chief Executive Officer at GTP, Rich Bialek, said; “MasterCard prepaid programs give cardholders greater access to the global marketplace, while advancing government efforts to increase financial literacy and inclusion. These programs also give businesses and government agencies a payroll solution that drives cash out of the system and provides essential financial tools to control cash flow. This partnership will also enable GTP to offer new payment solutions such as digital wallets and virtual cards to our customers.”