In a transformative move poised to reshape Uganda’s digital financial landscape, Network International joined forces with Mastercard, Airtel Money, and MTN Group Fintech to accelerate the delivery of faster, safer, and more accessible digital financial services across the country. This landmark collaboration underscores a shared commitment to driving financial inclusion and empowering individuals, businesses, and communities through cutting-edge technology.
At the heart of the initiative lies Network International’s robust payment infrastructure, a critical enabler designed to support seamless transactions, mitigate fraud risks, and catalyze the growth of Africa’s burgeoning digital economy.
The partnership aims to bridge gaps in financial access while fostering a more inclusive ecosystem for millions of Ugandans.
We spoke with Mr. Clay Oduor, Regional Managing Director for Eastern Africa at Network International. In an exclusive remote interview, Oduor’s insights highlight the technical and operational synergies between the partners and underscore the long-term ambition to position Uganda as a hub for digital innovation, setting a precedent for scalable solutions across the continent.
- Network International has recently made headlines with its partnerships with Mastercard, Airtel Money, and MTN Group. Could you start by giving us an overview of what these collaborations mean for Network International and its role in Africa’s digital economy?
These partnerships are a major step forward for digital payment adoption in Africa. By collaborating with Mastercard, Airtel Money, and MTN Group Fintech, we’re combining global expertise with local reach to make digital financial services faster, safer, and more accessible. Our role is to provide a secure payment infrastructure that helps to drive Africa’s digital economy forward.
- The partnership with Mastercard and Airtel Money has been described as a game-changer for digital payments in Africa. What specific technologies or solutions is Network International bringing to this collaboration to enhance Airtel Money’s capabilities?
We’re providing virtual card issuance, payment processing, instant settlements, and fraud prevention tools to Airtel Money. This means Airtel Money customers can make seamless transactions—whether it’s paying bills, shopping online, or subscribing to services like Netflix —with greater ease, speed, and security.
- How does this partnership aim to bridge the gap for unbanked and underbanked populations, and what challenges do you foresee in scaling these solutions across such diverse markets?
According to the 2023 report by the East African Communications Organisation, mobile phone penetration in Uganda jumped from 70% in 2021 to 81% in 2023. This instantly tells you that mobile money is key to financial inclusion, but scaling it requires affordable services, consumer education, and strong infrastructure. Challenges include network coverage gaps and low smartphone access in rural areas, however, our solutions are designed to work even on basic phones, ensuring no one is left behind.
- Mastercard’s investment in Airtel Mobile Commerce valued the business at US$2.65 billion. How does Network International’s payment processing expertise contribute to unlocking this value and driving further growth in mobile money services?
The sizeable investment by Mastercard reinforces the fact that mobile commerce has immense growth potential. Our payment processing expertise ensures millions of transactions are handled smoothly and securely. By partnering with Airtel Money, we provide convenience to Airtel Money customers, reduce transaction costs, prevent fraud, and enable new services—like virtual cards that drive growth and offer payment convenience to their customers.
See also: Network International begins rolling out digital payment solutions across Airtel markets
- Network International was recently appointed as the payment processing partner for MTN Group Fintech, starting with Rwanda and expanding to markets like Uganda, Ivory Coast, and Nigeria. What unique capabilities does Network International offer MTN to enhance its fintech offerings?
Our partnership with MTN Group Fintech showcases how we can add value to telecos. We’re providing MTN with scalable, cloud-based payment solutions that support everything from mobile wallets to cross-border remittances. Our fraud detection and real-time processing help MTN offer safer and faster services as they expand into new markets.
- From transaction processing to fraud prevention and card management, Network International provides a wide range of services. Which of these technologies do you believe will have the most transformative impact on Africa’s digital payment landscape in the next five years?
Over the next few years, we expect AI-driven fraud prevention, instant cross-border payments, and interoperable digital wallets to have the biggest impact. These technologies will make transactions cheaper, faster, and more secure, therefore being critical for Africa’s small businesses and daily users.
See also: How technology is shaping the future of personal finance
- Africa’s mobile money market is one of the fastest-growing in the world. How is Network International leveraging emerging technologies, like AI, APIs, or blockchain, to stay ahead of the curve in these partnerships?
It’s a fast-paced payment industry courtesy of rapid tech evolution and changing consumer preferences. At Network International, we’re using AI to detect fraud in real time and APIs to connect securely to different payment systems. These technologies help us stay ahead, ensuring our partners like Airtel Money and MTN Group Fintech can innovate rapidly.
- The rollout of digital payment solutions with Airtel Money began in Uganda, with plans to expand into Francophone Africa in 2025. What technological or logistical hurdles do you anticipate in these multilingual and multicultural markets, and how are you preparing to address them?
Each market has unique needs—from language to regulations to infrastructure. To navigate these challenges, we have employed local experts in each of these markets, and when needed, we also partner with local consultants and regional banks. In addition, we secure the necessary regulatory approvals and deploy adaptive technology.
- Mobile network operators like Airtel and MTN are pivotal in Africa’s digital transformation. How do these collaborations amplify their ability to foster innovation and economic growth in their respective markets?
MTN and Airtel reach millions of people through their vast networks. By integrating our advanced payment technology, we help them deepen the financial services they offer their customers to make it more seamless and reliable. This helps businesses grow, young people find new ways to earn, and families save or spend more safely.
- Financial inclusion and smartphone penetration are often cited as catalysts for Africa’s tech boom. How do you see these partnerships accelerating the adoption of digital tools among small businesses and individual users?
These partnerships unlock the digital economy—empowering consumers to trade locally and globally, small businesses to reach worldwide markets, and individuals to use secure, convenient payment tools. They also allow us to tailor simple, culturally relevant solutions for seamless adoption.
- Looking at the bigger picture, how do these partnerships contribute to Africa’s position in the global digital economy, especially as mobile money and fintech continue to evolve?
Currently, Africa is leading in mobile money innovation. These partnerships showcase how local solutions coupled with global partnerships can create meaningful solutions that positively impact local economies. As mobile money evolves, Africa’s influence in fintech will only grow stronger.
- Network International serves over 40 African markets. What lessons from these partnerships can be applied to other regions or industries looking to advance technology adoption?
The key takeaway is the transformative power of collaboration. By partnering with telcos, banks, and fintechs, we build ecosystems that deliver mutual value. Regions with limited tech infrastructure can leapfrog ahead by leveraging global expertise and best-in-class solutions from more advanced economies.
- 13. Finally, what’s next for Network International in Africa? Are there any upcoming initiatives or technologies you’re excited about that will further this momentum?
We are currently serving over 40 African countries, with the goal of helping businesses and economies prosper by simplifying commerce and payments. This presents a tremendous opportunity to further digitize local transactions and lead the fight against payment fraud. Stay tuned for more partnerships that will redefine payments in Africa—as we work to make the continent the global leader in inclusive, secure digital finance.
Oduor’s insights painted a vivid picture of a rapidly evolving ecosystem where technology bridges gaps, empowers economies, and positions Africa at the forefront of the global digital finance revolution. As the continent leans into this momentum, partnerships like these signal a future where finance is not just transactional but transformational—fueling growth, connectivity, and prosperity for millions.
