MTN Launches MoMo Virtual Card to Expand Zambia’s Access to Global Digital Payments
MTN Zambia has launched the MoMo Virtual Card, a new digital payment solution designed to give Zambians seamless access to global online markets and services, as the company deepens its role in advancing the country’s digital economy.
Speaking during the launch event, MTN Mobile Money Chief Executive Officer, Komba Malukutila, said the initiative addresses one of the biggest barriers facing local entrepreneurs and citizens limited access to international payment platforms.
“Access to a modern, connected life is not a privilege; it is a right,” Mr Malukutila said, noting that the solution is aimed at empowering small businesses, creators, and individuals to participate fully in the global digital economy.
The MoMo Virtual Card, accessible through USSD and the MoMo App, allows users to make online payments without paperwork, queues, or physical bank visits. The service enables customers to transact across borders, supporting online purchases, subscriptions, and international payments directly from their mobile money wallets.
Mr Malukutila said the launch aligns with the Government of Zambia’s digital transformation agenda, with MTN positioning itself as a strategic partner in national development. He highlighted three key objectives of the product: deepening financial inclusion, enabling small and medium enterprises to scale beyond borders, and empowering citizens to engage in a fully digital economy.
The solution has been developed through partnerships with Mastercard, Network International, and United Bank for Africa (UBA), creating an integrated ecosystem that connects millions of Zambians to global financial systems.
“This is not just a collection of partners, but a deliberately built ecosystem designed to unlock possibilities,” he said.
Mr Malukutila added that the new service could enable farmers to access agricultural inputs online, small businesses to receive international payments, and digital creators to earn globally without leaving their workplaces.
The launch comes as MTN Zambia marks 20 years of operations in the country, transitioning from a traditional telecommunications provider to a digital and fintech-driven company. He also noted that MTN recently reached 300 million subscribers across Africa, highlighting the group’s growing continental footprint.
Guest of Honour Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati, alongside other senior government officials, attended the event, signalling strong public-private collaboration in advancing Zambia’s digital economy.
As Zambia moves into the festive season, Mr Malukutila encouraged entrepreneurs and consumers to leverage digital tools to grow their ambitions, stating that MTN remains committed to delivering solutions that work “now, not later”.
