Visa Launches Visa Pay to Boost Digital Payments, Financial Inclusion in DR Congo

Visa, the global leader in digital payments, has launched Visa Pay, a new mobile payment solution designed to expand access to digital financial services across the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The innovative platform enables users to pay, get paid, and move money securely across banks and mobile networks, bringing both banked and unbanked consumers into the digital economy.

Available from October 4, Visa Pay is built to deliver accessibility, affordability, and convenience for individuals and businesses. The interoperable platform supports account-to-account money movement in both Congolese francs (CDF) and US dollars (USD), with features such as easy enrolment, advanced fraud prevention, and cash in/cash out services at partner bank branches. Users can also make online payments through virtual cards.

Visa Pay is accessible as a mobile app on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. In addition, banks can integrate Visa Pay directly into their existing apps, allowing customers to access digital payment features seamlessly.

The service is initially available through five partner banks: Access Banque, FBN, Sofibanque, Solidaire Banque, and UBA with BGFI, Equity Bank, and TMB expected to join soon.

Speaking about the launch, Sophie Kafuti, General Manager for Visa DRC, said, “We are excited to launch Visa Pay, an interoperable solution to scale digital payments in the country. The launch is part of our commitment to driving innovative solutions as a catalyst for greater financial inclusion, helping to provide broader access to the digital economy. Through Visa Pay, we aim to stimulate economic growth and to help establish the DRC as a regional leader in financial technology.”

Visa says the rollout of Visa Pay in the DRC reinforces its mission to drive financial inclusion and stimulate economic growth across Africa. By combining global payment technology with local banking partnerships, Visa aims to unlock opportunities, empower consumers and businesses, and strengthen the country’s position as an emerging hub for digital finance.