Sylvia Duruson
Mastercard has joined forces with Kalabash54, a fintech subsidiary of the Wakanow Group, to introduce a game-changing travel card for customers in Nigeria and Ghana. This collaboration aims to address the unique needs of West African travellers by offering a secure and convenient payment solution.
The Kalabash54 travel card is designed to be an all-in-one payment solution for travellers. Users can fund their trips directly through the Kalabash54 app using either a physical or virtual card, available in local currency or USD. The app provides a user-friendly interface for managing the card, including activation, PIN changes, and security controls.
One of the key features of this innovative card is its worldwide acceptance, ensuring that travelers can use it wherever they go. Additional perks include airport lounge access and exclusive discounts. The card also boasts no hidden fees and free loading, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
To further enhance the user experience, the Kalabash54 travel card comes with a loyalty program. This program offers cashback, discounts, and other rewards, providing additional value to frequent travelers.
Folasade Femi-Lawal, Country Manager for West Africa at Mastercard, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. She highlighted Mastercard’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive digital economy and leveraging their global network to transform travel payments in West Africa.
The timing of this collaboration is particularly significant given the current state of the payments industry in Nigeria and Ghana. Both countries have seen a surge in the adoption of digital payment solutions, driven by increased internet penetration and growing consumer purchasing power.
The Kalabash54 travel card was officially launched at the ‘Wakanow Unpacked’ tech and innovation expo in June, positioning itself to capitalize on the growing trend of digital payments in the region.
Bayo Adedeji, Group Chief Executive Officer of Wakanow Group, emphasized the impact of this strategic alliance. He highlighted the company’s dedication to enhancing the travel experience by offering secure and efficient payment options. The collaboration aims to boost electronic payment adoption in the travel and tourism sectors.
Ladi Ojuri, Chief Executive Officer of Kalabash54, expressed confidence that this collaboration with Mastercard will set a new standard in the travel and payment industry. He emphasized the company’s goal of empowering customers with innovative and reliable financial tools to enhance their travel experiences.
The partnership between Kalabash54 and Mastercard is expected to have a significant impact on financial inclusivity in the region. By providing more secure, easy, and accessible payment solutions, the collaboration addresses the growing demand for convenient payment methods in the thriving travel industries of Ghana and Nigeria.
As the travel sector in these countries continues to expand, the need for seamless international payment solutions becomes increasingly important. The Kalabash54 and Mastercard alliance is well-positioned to meet this demand, offering travelers the tools they need for hassle-free global exploration.
This collaboration represents a significant step forward in the digitalization of travel payments in West Africa. By combining Mastercard’s global network with Wakanow’s industry expertise, the partnership promises to deliver a payment solution that is not only convenient and secure but also tailored to the specific needs of West African travellers.
