Mastercard digital payment expansion in Africa

Mastercard has initiated several expansions of its digital payment and financial inclusion services across Africa.

In late July 2026, new prepaid card offerings were launched in Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Kenya, a partnership between Carrefour, KCB Bank, and Mastercard introduced a reloadable prepaid card for grocery purchases. Simultaneously, Airtel Money and Mastercard launched the Airtel Money Carte Global Pay in the DRC, a virtual card integrated with the My Airtel App to facilitate secure online transactions.

By mid-August 2026, Mastercard expanded its strategic reach through a collaboration with TeamApt Limited, a subsidiary of Moniepoint. This partnership enables TeamApt to operate as a non-bank acquirer on Mastercard’s global network, providing transaction processing and payment acceptance across mobile, online, and in-store channels. The initiative specifically targets the integration of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) into the formal digital economy, particularly in Nigeria, where an estimated 40 million such businesses exist.

By connecting TeamApt’s switching infrastructure with Mastercard’s network, merchants can accept Mastercard cards issued worldwide, facilitating cross-border trade and helping local businesses access credit histories. TeamApt CEO Dennis Ajalie noted the deal is a step toward “removing barriers in the payments ecosystem,” while Mastercard’s West Africa Country Manager, Folasade Femi-Lawal, emphasized that expanding acceptance is key to helping African small businesses compete and grow.