Absa and Visa have renewed their strategic partnership to accelerate the growth of inclusive, secure, and digitally enabled financial ecosystems across Absa’s Regional Operations (ARO)—representing its footprint outside South Africa.
The agreement, formalized at a signing ceremony in Johannesburg, marks a significant milestone in a longstanding relationship that has already driven notable innovation and financial inclusion across the continent.
Anchored in a shared vision to transform how individuals and businesses access and interact with financial services, the renewed partnership will deepen collaboration in key areas, including digital infrastructure expansion, small business enablement, and customer-focused innovation in the cards and payments space.
“This regional expansion marks an exciting new chapter in our partnership with Absa—one that continues to challenge convention and redefine possibilities within financial services,” said Michael Berner, Head of Southern and East Africa at Visa.
“We share a strong commitment to expanding 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 across Africa. Absa was the first bank in multiple African markets to launch Visa Direct, enabling domestic and international card-to-card payments. It also pioneered Visa Signature and Infinite Metal Cards, setting a new standard in premium banking with exclusive lifestyle benefits. Additionally, Absa Pay issuer wallets expanded digital payment experiences, with a notable first in Mauritius.
“Through our strategic partnership with Visa, we’re building a financial ecosystem that keeps pace with the realities of Africa’s fast-evolving economies,” said Saviour Chibiya, Chief Executive of Absa Regional Operations.
“In every market we operate in, we connect deeply with local communities to deliver financial solutions tailored to the changing needs of our customers.”
In 2025, Absa launched Visa Business Credit Cards, offering practical solutions for entrepreneurs and SMEs. These cards come with tailored benefits, spend controls, and access to Visa Spend Clarity Plus—a first in Sub-Saharan Africa—enabling virtual card issuance and advanced expense management.
The renewed agreement places a strong emphasis on empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by improving access to credit, expanding payment acceptance, and promoting responsible lending.
“Partnerships like this are essential for scaling impact across the continent,” said Omar Baig, Managing Executive for Absa Regional Operations Retail & Business Banking.
“Visa brings world-class technology, insights, and capabilities that help us deliver locally relevant solutions—from enhancing domestic and international payments to deepening financial inclusion in underserved communities.”
Lineshree Moodley, Country Head for Visa South Africa, added:“Our partnership with Absa is a powerful testament to the shared vision of building a secure, inclusive, and resilient digital payments ecosystem. We are proud of what we’ve accomplished together in South Africa and excited to deepen our collaboration across the continent as we continue to drive innovation and financial inclusion at scale.”
Looking ahead, the partnership will focus on co-developing solutions that drive digital commerce, enhance customer experiences, and support inclusive economic growth.
Together, Absa and Visa are shaping the future of finance in Africa—one innovation, one business, and one customer at a time.
