The United Bank for Africa together with Mastercard launched the UBA Debit Mastercard and UBA Mastercard Platinum cards. The cards will present an alternative for the customers displace cash in quick and secure manner.
The cards will bring with them benefits which include Legacy Lifestyle Gold Tier Membership, shopping and shipping discounts, Mastercard discounts among others. The roll out in the country was presided by several others across different nations in Africa.
Customers will only need to go to the bank to sign up for the cards, the activation happens instantly without having to wait for days like in other institutions. In addition, plans are also underway to make the debit card available electronically through the UBA website.
“As a group, we are committed to displacing cash and empowering businesses and consumers across Africa, and our partnership with Mastercard enables us to deploy safe electronic solutions to the benefit of the entire country,” said Dr. Yinka Adedeji, UBA’s Group Head, Digital Banking.
The debit and Platinum cards can also be used in-stores and in any ATM locally plus millions others worldwide. Many online platforms and stores also support purchases via Mastercard as well.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, the Managing Director/CEO, UBA Kenya, Isaac Mwige said, “The introduction of the two payment solutions will enable our customers to carry out their banking transactions in a safer, more convenient and more reliable manner. Our customers’ needs are changing and as they change, we will continue to adopt smart technology solutions that deliver superior services.”
Chris Bwakira, Vice President and Area Business Head, East Africa, Mastercard said, “In order to deliver a Kenya beyond cash we need to ensure all Africans feel confident that their money is secure, and that they have access to relevant solutions that meet their needs at all points of their life. The UBA Debit Mastercard and Platinum card introduces the latest global payment standards with EMV Chip and PIN technology embedded into the card making it difficult for fraudsters to duplicate your credentials.”
Regarding the partnership, Mr Bwakira added that “Financial inclusion is essential to ensuring the economic growth of Kenya and the partnership aims to successfully integrate the country into the global financial system”.
