INTELLIGENT BRANDS // Mobile Technology
Zambia based fintech , Lupiya partners with Network International for payment as a service
Network International , the enabler of digital commerce across Africa and the Middle East , has announced that Zambian fintech and neobank , Lupiya , has appointed Network as their digital payments technology partner to launch a new debit card .
The solution includes the launch of a debit card that is e-commerce enabled , together with 3D Secure and tokenisation . This will help diversify Lupiya ’ s value proposition to include not only simplified lending , but also digital payments to its existing and growing new customer base .
To help Lupiya tap into more local opportunities for digital payments growth , Network will deliver a comprehensive suite of card payment processing solutions . These will cover the entire lifecycle of a card payment , from issuance to settlement and even dispute resolution , with a focus on both digital and physical payment channels . By outsourcing payments to a Payments as a Service , PaaS provider , fintech can significantly reduce the time required to launch new payment products and services .
Lupiya , is an AI-driven neobank revolutionising financial inclusion in Zambia and Tanzania through its online lending and digital payments platform . By providing access to loans and payment services for underserved populations , especially women and small businesses , Lupiya is closing the financial access gap with innovative digital solutions .
The platform leverages alternative data and machine learning models to assess creditworthiness , enabling individuals and businesses traditionally excluded by banks to access both credit and secure payment services . Lupiya offers a range of financial products , including personal loans , SME financing , and digital payments , with a strong focus on empowering women and promoting sustainable development through climatesmart agricultural practices .
Another challenge for fintech is navigating the complex regulatory environment for payments . PaaS providers have the expertise to ensure compliance with relevant laws and standards , allowing fintech to focus on their core business .
“ Network ’ s partnership with Lupiya , our newest fintech customer in Zambia , underscores our ability to enable digital financial service providers in all consumer segments and verticals . It further solidifies our ambition to expand our client portfolio , encompassing diverse financial institutions across the region ,” comments Dr Reda Helal , Managing Director and Co-Head of Processing Africa , Network International .
“ At Lupiya , the mission drives us to revolutionise financial inclusion across Africa .
Our partnership with Network International represents a significant leap forward in providing secure , accessible , and innovative digital financial solutions . By launching an e-commerce enabled debit card with 3D Secure and tokenisation , we are empowering individuals and businesses to participate in the digital economy more effectively ,” says Muchu Kaingu , CEO of Lupiya Pay .
According to companies like McKinsey , the uptake of PaaS is being fuelled by Africa ’ s growing cloud adoption , which it has likened to the continent ’ s rapid growth in smartphone ownership . According to the analysts , the rate of adoption of cloud in Africa is fast reaching parity with that of North America and China .
“ Whether it is a decades-old traditional bank , a nimble fintech like Lupiya , a retailer , or an MNO , delivering world-class digital payments , it starts with choosing the right PaaS partner ,” says Nazo Mhango , Network International Country Manager for Zambia . p
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