In early 2024, Zambian fintech, Union54 announced the official launch of ChitChat, its messaging app with an integrated payment wallet. Building on this success, the fintech has now partnered with Paymentology, the global issuer processor, to introduce a USD virtual Mastercard debit card to the platform.
Founded in 2021 by entrepreneurs Perseus Mlambo and Alessandra Martini, Union54 has quickly gained prominence in Africa’s fintech sector. Its flagship product, ChitChat, enables users to communicate, network, and transfer money between wallets. It also converts USD to local currencies and sends in-app funds to other ChitChat users. With the help of Paymentology’s cloud-first, API-driven technology, users can now conduct both in-person and online transactions using their ChitChat virtual Mastercard debit card.
Leveraging over two decades of expertise, Paymentology provides its payment platform to support Union54’s expansion of ChitChat in Zambia and other African markets during this critical growth phase. Together, the organisations will foster an inclusive digital economy. It also reinforces their shared commitment to making transactions safe and accessible for everyone.
Perseus Mlambo, CEO of Union54
Perseus Mlambo, CEO of Union54 commented: “The internet has transformative potential for both individuals and governments. Our goal is to create secure and efficient spaces for communication and transactions. Partnering with Paymentology provides us with the reliability, security, and scalability needed to elevate our offerings. This collaboration will empower our customers with the advanced tools necessary for seamless communication and financial transactions.”
Capitalising on Zambia’s digital payments growth
Zambians are rapidly adopting digital solutions in all aspects of their lives. Research has found that 78.7 per cent of the population (16.4 million people) are connected via mobiles. This has led to estimations for the digital payments sector to reach $8.441million by 2027, with growth projected to be 16.12 per cent between 2023 and 2027.
As such, Union54’s ChitChat drive significant economic growth, foster entrepreneurship, and enhance financial inclusion throughout Africa. This will be made all the more effective with secure financial transactions enabled by Paymentology.
Kirsten Wortmann, regional director for Africa at Paymentology
Kirsten Wortmann, Africa regional director at Paymentology commented: “We are thrilled to expand our collaboration with Union54, an organisation that is at the forefront of innovation in Africa and committed to making a tangible difference in people’s lives.
“Supporting the ChitChat app at this critical juncture in its growth is a testament to our shared vision of empowering users with safe and efficient payment solutions. We look forward to continuing our support and delivering next-generation solutions to serve the African market.”
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