Absa Group Limited and Visa Inc. have renewed their long-standing strategic partnership to accelerate the development of inclusive, secure, and digitally enabled financial ecosystems across Absa’s Regional Operations (ARO).
The agreement, formalised at a signing ceremony in Johannesburg, marks a major milestone in a relationship that has consistently driven innovation and financial inclusion across the continent.
Expanding Digital Access and Innovation
“This regional expansion marks an exciting new chapter in our partnership with Absa—one that continues to challenge conventions and redefine the possibilities within financial services,” said Michael Berner, Head of Southern and East Africa at Visa.
“We share a strong commitment to growing digital access across the region. Absa’s leadership in innovation drives real impact, and we’re proud to support their momentum with Visa’s global expertise and technology.”
The partnership has already delivered several market-first innovations:
- Visa Direct: Enabled card-to-card domestic and international payments
- Visa Signature & Infinite Metal Cards: Introduced premium banking with exclusive lifestyle benefits
- Absa Pay Issuer Wallets: Expanded digital payment experiences, including a first in Mauritius
Local Solutions for African Economies
“Through our strategic partnership with Visa, we’re building a financial ecosystem that reflects the pace of today’s African economies,” said Saviour Chibiya, Chief Executive for Absa Regional Operations.
“In every market we operate in, we connect deeply with local communities to deliver financial solutions that respond to the evolving needs and realities of our customers.”
In 2025, Absa launched Visa Business Credit Cards, offering:
- Tailored benefits for SMEs and entrepreneurs
- Spend controls and virtual card issuance
- Access to Visa Spend Clarity Plus—a first in Sub-Saharan Africa
Empowering SMEs and Driving Inclusion
The renewed agreement places strong emphasis on enabling small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with targeted solutions to:
- Improve access to credit
- Expand payment acceptance
- Support responsible lending
“Partnerships like this are central to how we scale impact across the continent,” said Omar Baig, Managing Executive for Absa Regional Operations Retail & Business Banking.
“Visa brings global technology, insights, and capabilities that help us deliver locally relevant solutions—from expanding payment capabilities to deepening digital access for underserved communities.”
A Shared Vision for Africa’s Financial Future
“Our partnership with Absa stands as a powerful testament to the shared vision between our two brands,” said Lineshree Moodley, Country Head for Visa South Africa.
“We are proud of what we’ve built together in South Africa and excited to deepen this collaboration across the continent as we continue driving innovation and financial inclusion at scale.”
