Airtel selects Network International as Payment Processing Partner

By Gloria Mathias

Network International (Network), the enabler of digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa (MEA), has been appointed as a Payment Processor Issued by Airtel in Africa.

This marks a development amidst the Network’s growing portfolio of issuer processing collaborations within the continent.

This collaboration is poised to catalyze Airtel’s continued provision of cutting-edge mobile services within the continent and beyond. Leveraging Network International’s expertise, Airtel is well-equipped to navigate the dynamic landscape of digital finance, drive innovation, and deliver unparalleled value to its users and stakeholders. The contract with Airtel involves a rollout across key Airtel markets, covering card issuance products.

Network will offer its expertise and technical support to Airtel, which includes a comprehensive range of products and services from transaction processing, card hosting and management, and online fraud prevention to the API sandbox, internal reconciliation and settlement, and online access for Airtel users.

The solution chosen by Airtel will provide its users with the convenience and ease to access a wide range of both conventional mobile services and a new set of digital payment services, all through a smooth and elevated customer experience.

Dr Reda Helal, Group Managing Director of Processing, Africa and Co-Head of Group Processing at Network International, said, “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 Airtel Group, said, “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.”