Zambia Enters New Era of Digital Commerce as Airtel Money Launches Global Pay Mastercard
Zambia has taken a major leap in digital financial innovation with the launch of the Airtel Money Global Pay Mastercard, a product set to transform online payments and cross-border trade for individuals and small businesses.
The official launch ceremony, held at Urban Hotel in Lusaka, was graced by the Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Hon. Eng. Elias Mubanga, MP, and brought together key partners including Airtel Money, Mastercard, Access Bank, and Network International.
In his keynote address, Minister Mubanga described the initiative as a “giant step towards building an inclusive and digitally driven economy”, aligning with the government’s broader vision under the 8th National Development Plan and the National Financial Inclusion Strategy.
“This milestone will accelerate Zambia’s journey towards a more inclusive and digitally driven economy,” Hon. Mubanga said. “By linking local payment wallets to international platforms like Mastercard, Airtel Money will bring millions of Zambians—especially the unbanked—into the mainstream of global commerce.”
The virtual card will allow Airtel Money subscribers to seamlessly pay for goods and services online, both locally and internationally. Minister Mubanga noted that the innovation will particularly empower small-scale entrepreneurs and youth innovators.
“A small business owner in Lusaka, Kitwe, or Mongu can now access global markets with the same ease as their counterparts elsewhere,” he added. “This launch opens a vital trade channel, enabling business owners to purchase raw materials from international suppliers and participate fully in global e-commerce.”
Beyond commerce, the new Mastercard integration is expected to benefit Zambia’s creative industries, tech start-ups, and youth innovators, providing access to essential digital tools, subscriptions, and learning resources.
Minister Mubanga also commended the collaboration between the private sector and government, saying it exemplifies how partnerships can drive financial inclusion, job creation, and economic resilience.
Concluding his remarks, the Minister urged citizens to embrace the innovation: “Explore how Mastercard on Airtel Money can open doors and allow you to participate fully in global e-commerce. By facilitating payments, we are enabling dreams, building businesses, and strengthening the Zambian economy.”
