Airtel Uganda has launched the Airtel Money Global Pay Card in partnership with Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), Mastercard, and Network International. The introduction of this virtual payment solution is set to boost Uganda’s financial sector, enabling safe, easy, and borderless digital transactions. The card was officially unveiled at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Kampala.
What is the Airtel Money Global Pay Card?
The Airtel Money Global Pay Card is a digital prepaid card accessible through the MyAirtel App. Unlike traditional bank cards, this virtual solution does not require a credit history and allows users to conduct secure online transactions, pay for international services, and subscribe to platforms such as Netflix, Amazon, and Spotify.
Key Features of the Airtel Money Global Pay Card
- Virtual Prepaid Card
- A non-plastic digital card linked to the MyAirtel App.
- Operates separately from a user’s Airtel Money wallet, ensuring better financial control.
- Global Accessibility
- Accepted at over 100 million merchants across 200 countries through Mastercard’s network.
- Supports international payments for e-commerce, travel, education, and entertainment subscriptions.
- Cost Efficiency
- Free to create, load, and withdraw funds from an Airtel Money wallet.
- A minimal transaction fee of up to UGX 1,000 ($0.27 USD) per transaction.
- Security and Control
- Users can only spend what they load onto the card, reducing the risk of fraud and overspending.
- Cards can be deleted and regenerated instantly via the app, with added protection from Mastercard’s Zero Liability policy.
- Ease of Access
- Customers can activate the card via the MyAirtel App or USSD code 1857#.
- The app is the primary platform, reflecting the transition from traditional USSD services to digital-first solutions.
Read: How to Benefit from the KCB Bank and Airtel Money Merchants Payments Deal
How Ugandans Can Benefit from the Airtel Money Global Pay Card
1. Enhanced Access to Global Markets
The card enables Ugandans to shop and pay for services on international platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and Netflix. Small business owners and entrepreneurs can purchase raw materials, software, and advertising services, helping them expand their businesses beyond Uganda’s borders.
2. Financial Inclusion for the Unbanked
With over 16 million Airtel Money users, many of whom lack access to traditional banking, the Airtel Money Global Pay Card bridges the gap, allowing the unbanked to participate in global digital commerce.
3. Cost-Effective Transactions
Compared to conventional banking fees and currency exchange rates, the low transaction fees of the Airtel Money Global Pay Card make international payments more affordable, especially for students paying for online courses and freelancers receiving payments from global clients.
4. Convenience and Speed
Users can generate and fund the virtual card instantly through the MyAirtel App or USSD. This eliminates the need to visit a bank, making it an ideal solution for people in rural areas with limited access to financial institutions.
5. Improved Security and Spending Control
As a prepaid card, users load only what they need, preventing overspending. Instant card regeneration and Mastercard’s Zero Liability policy add additional layers of security, ensuring safe transactions.
Read: How Mastercard’s Entry into Uganda Will Boost Digital Payments and Economic Growth
How to Get Started with the Airtel Money Global Pay Card
To use the Airtel Money Global Pay Card:
- Download the MyAirtel App from the App Store or Google Play.
- Navigate to the Airtel Money section and select Global Pay Card.
- Authenticate using your Airtel Money PIN to generate the card.
- Load funds from your Airtel Money wallet.
- Use the card details (card number, expiration date, CVV) to transact online where Mastercard is accepted.