MoneyGram International has announced a new partnership with Airtel Africa, which provides telecommunications and mobile money services in 14 countries across Africa.
The partnership enables Airtel Money’s 19 million customers to receive MoneyGram transfers directly into their mobile wallets from around the world.
Once Airtel Money customers receive the money, it can be accessed immediately and used to pay for goods and services or settle utility bills. It can also be transferred to other individuals, or the money can be withdrawn at any of Airtel Africa’s exclusive branches, kiosks, and agents. The services will be enabled this year subject to local regulatory approvals.
“This partnership with telecom company will enable millions of consumers instant access to our global platform to receive money from over 200 countries & territories without having to even step outside,” said John Gely, Head of MoneyGram Africa.
He said this customer-centric partnership with Airtel will expand MoneyGram’s mobile wallet capabilities, build upon its strong momentum in Africa, and further accelerate its digital growth across the globe.
MoneyGram is a leading remittance provider in Africa and this partnership is in line with the strategic imperatives of both companies as Airtel focuses on expanding the breadth of its offerings, launching international partnerships to connect millions of people to the global economy and driving money flows into the continent.
“This is a significant step forward in our ambition to transform lives through greater financial inclusion and empowerment across the continent. Maximizing access to global remittances is a key part of this – even more so given the disruption and economic hardship faced by many because of the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Raghunath Mandava, CEO of Airtel Africa.
