In a significant step toward expanding digital financial services in Sierra Leone, Afrimoney, in partnership with Ecobank Sierra Leone, has officially launched the Afrimoney Prepaid Visa Card, a groundbreaking product expected to transform the way Sierra Leoneans access and use financial services both locally and internationally.
The launch ceremony, held at the Bintumani Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown, attracted a distinguished gathering of stakeholders, including officials from the Bank of Sierra Leone, representatives of government ministries, members of the diplomatic community, leaders from the banking and financial sectors, as well as private sector actors and development partners.
The newly introduced prepaid Visa card enables Afrimoney subscribers to link their mobile money wallets directly to a Visa-enabled payment card, providing access to a wide range of digital financial services. Cardholders can make online purchases, withdraw cash from ATMs, pay for goods and services through point-of-sale terminals, and conduct transactions on international platforms wherever Visa is accepted.
The initiative is widely viewed as a major advancement in Sierra Leone’s growing digital finance ecosystem, particularly for individuals who have traditionally been excluded from conventional banking services. By combining the convenience of mobile money with the global reach of Visa’s payment network, the card is expected to increase financial access for millions of Sierra Leoneans, including small business owners, entrepreneurs, students, and rural communities.
Speaking during the launch, Afrimoney Chief Executive Officer, Martison Obeng-Agyei, described the prepaid Visa card as a reflection of the company’s commitment to innovation and customer-centered solutions. He said Afrimoney continues to invest in products that address the real needs of Sierra Leoneans while promoting financial inclusion across all segments of society.
According to him, the card has been specifically designed to bridge the divide between the banked and unbanked population by providing secure and convenient access to financial services that were previously out of reach for many citizens.
“This is more than just a payment card. It is a gateway to opportunities, enabling users to connect with the global digital economy while enjoying safe and convenient financial services,” he noted.
Obeng-Agyei further emphasized the importance of collaboration between financial institutions and mobile money providers, stressing that partnerships such as the one between Afrimoney and Ecobank are essential for driving innovation and expanding financial access nationwide.
Also speaking at the event, Managing Director of Ecobank Sierra Leone, Sebastian Ashong-Katai, described the partnership as a landmark achievement that demonstrates the power of collaboration in advancing economic development.
He stated that the initiative merges the accessibility and convenience of mobile money with the security, structure, and international connectivity offered by traditional banking institutions. According to him, the prepaid Visa card will empower customers to participate more actively in the digital economy while simplifying transactions for travelers, professionals, students, and small business operators.
Ashong-Katai highlighted that access to digital payment solutions has become increasingly important in today’s interconnected world, and the new card will help Sierra Leoneans engage confidently in international commerce and online services.
The Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, welcomed the launch and described it as a major milestone in the country’s journey toward a digitally enabled and cash-light economy. He noted that integrating mobile money services with formal banking infrastructure is critical to addressing financial access challenges and promoting inclusive economic growth.
Dr. Stevens said innovations such as the Afrimoney Prepaid Visa Card align with the central bank’s vision of increasing financial inclusion while supporting the development of secure and efficient payment systems throughout the country.
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh praised the initiative as an example of how technology, innovation, and effective partnerships can improve the lives of ordinary citizens.
He emphasized that financial technology solutions have the potential to create economic opportunities for market women, transport operators, youth entrepreneurs, and other informal sector participants who form the backbone of Sierra Leone’s economy.
Dr. Sengeh noted that expanding access to digital financial services will contribute to economic empowerment, increase participation in the formal economy, and accelerate national development efforts.
The launch of the Afrimoney Prepaid Visa Card marks a new chapter in Sierra Leone’s digital transformation journey. As the country continues to embrace technology-driven solutions, the partnership between Afrimoney and Ecobank is expected to play a vital role in strengthening financial inclusion, promoting innovation, and creating a more connected and economically empowered society.
Industry observers believe the initiative will not only increase access to financial services but also position Sierra Leone as a growing player in Africa’s rapidly evolving digital finance landscape.
