Technology

 Network International, the leading enabler of digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa (MEA), has been appointed as the Payment Processor – Issuing by Airtel, one of Africa’s largest telecom operators. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for Network International, expanding its growing portfolio of issuer processing collaborations within the African continent.

With a presence in over 50 countries, serving more than 200 financial institutions, and facilitating over 1.6 billion transactions, Network International's extensive market experience and deep knowledge of the African market make it an ideal partner for Airtel.

The collaboration aims to enhance Airtel's mobile services by leveraging Network International's expertise in digital finance. This partnership will enable Airtel to navigate the dynamic landscape of digital payments, drive innovation, and deliver unparalleled value to its users and stakeholders.

The agreement includes a comprehensive rollout across key Airtel markets, focusing on card issuance products. Network International will provide a range of services, including transaction processing, card hosting and management, online fraud prevention, APIs sandbox, internal reconciliation and settlement, and online access for Airtel users. This robust solution will offer Airtel’s customers the convenience of accessing a wide range of conventional mobile services and new digital payment services through a seamless and elevated customer experience.

Dr. Reda Helal, Group Managing Director – Processing, Africa and Co-Head Group Processing at Network International, stated, “Our collaboration with Airtel marks a major milestone for our outsourced payments services in Africa. It demonstrates our ability to successfully serve Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) via our fully-fledged processing solutions and our continued dedication and commitment to the African region. We are excited to support Airtel’s growth strategy and its business development plans for the entire continent.”

Ian Ferrao, Group CEO, Airtel Money - Airtel Africa PLC, added, “We are thrilled to partner with Network International to enhance our payment processing capabilities. This collaboration will enable us to deliver a superior customer experience and drive digital financial inclusion across Africa. Network International's proven track record and deep understanding of the African market will allow us to innovate and scale our services more effectively. Together, we will empower our users with seamless and secure payment solutions, fostering economic growth and inclusion in the communities we serve.”

Network International offers a full suite of technology-enabled payment solutions to merchants and financial institutions of all sizes, including acquiring and processing services, along with a comprehensive range of value-added services. It currently operates in more than 40 African markets and over 50 countries across the MEA region.

Airtel, a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services in Africa, operates in 14 countries primarily in Central and West Africa, serving over 140 million customers, including nearly 60 million data customers and over 36 million Airtel Money customers.

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