
Mastercard and enza collaborate to enable fintech innovation across Africa
Dubai, UAE: Mastercard and enza – a payment solutions company – have collaborated to connect fintech companies across Africa to the Mastercard network. This collaboration will enable fintech players to build propositions on the enza platform that serve both consumers and businesses with embedded Mastercard payment solutions capabilities.
According to a report by the European Investment Bank, the number of fintech companies in Africa has nearly tripled since 2020. Many of these innovators focus on embedding payment services into broader solutions that tackle financial access, offering alternatives to legacy systems that often have a high cost to serve.
Fintech companies in Africa will now be able to easily access the full suite of Mastercard services. The collaboration aims to reduce complexity and speed up time to market for emerging players building digital financial solutions across the continent.
'At Mastercard, we are focused on powering the fintech ecosystem by enabling access to our trusted global network. Through our work with enza, fintech innovators in Africa will be able to deploy embedded payment capabilities more efficiently – helping accelerate financial inclusion and the region's digital transformation,' said Mete Guney, executive vice president, Market Development, EEMEA, Mastercard.
As part of the agreement, enza will host consumer and merchant accounts, manage integration with Mastercard's network, and ensure high levels of security and system availability. Fintech companies can configure pre-paid or post-paid accounts, and issue physical or virtual Mastercard cards. For businesses, enza will enable acceptance of Mastercard payments across in-store, online and in-app channels.
'enza is on a mission to make digital payments more accessible and affordable across Africa, helping to build a more financially inclusive continent that is ready and able to compete globally.
Our collaboration with Mastercard leverages our existing relationship to more effectively serve the fintech community. Together, we will provide innovators with a platform capability that means they do not need to build this aspect of their proposition and can get to market with greater speed and security,' said Andrew Key, Executive Director, enza.
Founded in 2023, enza is headquartered in Abu Dhabi, with regional offices in Egypt, South Africa and Nigeria. The company's innovative payment infrastructure delivers the flexibility and agility needed to increase competitiveness, capitalize on new markets and develop new revenue streams through better serving consumer and business customers across Africa.
About Mastercard
Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we're building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.
www.mastercard.com
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Al Etihad
14 minutes ago
- Al Etihad
UAE premier strategic partner: French Trade Minister
20 June 2025 17:43 PARIS (WAM)Laurent Saint-Martin, France's Delegate Minister for Foreign Trade and French Nationals Abroad, said that the UAE holds a top-tier position in France's economic and trade policy in the Gulf region. He emphasised the depth and distinction of bilateral relations, particularly on the economic and diplomatic statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), on the sidelines of the 'Vision Golfe 2025', organised by the French government at the headquarters of the Ministries of Economy and Finance in Paris, Minister Laurent Saint-Martin praised the exceptional momentum in the UAE-France partnership and called for elevating cooperation to new levels, especially in industry, renewable energy, digital economy, and innovation.'The UAE is undoubtedly a priority for France among Gulf nations,' said the minister. 'It is not only a key regional and economic force, but also a modern, dynamic development model that aligns with our vision for future international relations, rooted in innovation, sustainability, and openness.'He added that France seeks to strengthen partnerships with countries that share its strategic outlook and values, stating that the UAE stands out as an ideal partner in this economic ties, Minister Saint-Martin noted that France has maintained one of the oldest and most solid records of trade and investment relations with the UAE in the Gulf region. These ties, he said, are built not on chance or temporary alliances, but on mutual trust, understanding, and long-term respect.'We have worked with the UAE for decades, and we take pride in what our companies have achieved in the Emirati market,' he said. 'Today, we have a real opportunity to expand this cooperation in line with global economic shifts, through innovation-driven, high-quality partnerships.'He urged the business communities in both countries to seize the current momentum and strengthen ties between Emirati and French companies, particularly in advanced technologies, artificial intelligence, and green transformation.'We must move beyond traditional cooperation toward productive, integrated partnerships. Our companies need to collaborate more effectively and cohesively.'On the diplomatic front, Minister Saint-Martin described UAE-France relations as solid and time-tested, backed by continuous dialogue and strategic coordination on multiple fronts, both bilaterally and in international stressed that France views the UAE as a long-term strategic partner, expressing confidence that cooperation is poised to grow further amid evolving global challenges. 'We live in a fast-changing world,' he concluded, 'and global challenges, whether environmental, digital, or economic, require trusted, forward-looking partners. The UAE is undoubtedly one of the most prominent among them.'


The National
29 minutes ago
- The National
Omniyat's new landmark to ‘illuminate' the ultra-luxury commercial workspace sector on famous Dubai route
Leading luxury real estate developer Omniyat is extending its vision for ultra-luxury commercial workspaces with a futuristic new landmark on Sheikh Zayed Road. The 48-storey Lumena tower will set a new standard for workplace environments in the region upon completion in the third quarter of 2029, says the UAE developer. The announcement follows what is describes as the unprecedented success of Enara by Omniyat and - with a gross development value of Dh3.6 billion - represents a 'benchmark in ultra-luxury commercial development'. Lumena is located on Sheikh Zayed Road in the Burj Khalifa district, at the intersection of Business Bay and Downtown Dubai. Its eye-catching slender form and elevated architectural profile make it strategically designed to maximise views of Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, and Jumeirah Beach. A series of cantilevered structures throughout the tower will deliver unique vantage points as well as exceptional shared amenities, including Lumina's signature feature, the 'breathtaking' Sky Theatre, which Omniyat is billing as a never-before-seen amenity for a commercial tower in Dubai. Lumena was launched at the Museum of the Future with a memorable sound and light show on June 18. An architectural model of the project is on display in Studio 12 at The Opus by Omniyat until June 22, providing a 'glimpse into the future' of Dubai's commercial spaces. Omniyat says it continues to lead the way in the ultra-luxury commercial workspace segment, underlined by Lumena; it describes it as work of 'architectural mastery' where every line draws upward, and every space is designed to inspire clarity, confidence, and command. Mahdi Amjad, Omniyat founder and executive chairman, has branded Lumena as 'the future of commercial real estate' in Dubai. 'With its location, design and integrated amenities, we are creating a new paradigm for commercial real estate that aligns with how the next generation of leaders want to work and live,' he says. 'Leveraging technology, innovation and future-proof design, Lumena's sculpted façade reflects both architectural brilliance and the effortless flow of ideas, ambition and enterprise.' The development's inspirational name draws from the Latin word for illumination (lumen) and 'ena', a Japanese word that suggests a blessing. Omniyat says Lumena symbolises clarity, purpose, and forward momentum with a design that integrates panoramic views with natural materials and biophilic elements, bringing light, greenery, and airflow into the workspace to promote wellbeing, productivity, and performance. Every element, from its sculpted façade to double height glazing and natural textures, is engineered for both form and function. And with a key location near Business Bay metro station, Lumena will be well connected to Dubai's prime business, retail and lifestyle hubs and - close to Downtown and Burj Khalifa - minutes away from major city attractions. Dubai International Airport can be reached in 13 minutes. Each of the 91 shell-and-core office units – offered as half floor and full floor offices – has been designed with customisation and efficiency in development is being engineered for optimal efficiency, featuring flexible floorplates with minimal columns, a rear-core layout, and clear ceiling heights of 3m within office areas. Units are being offered with full fit-out flexibility so buyers and tenants can customise layouts, while a palatial use of space, including high ceilings and full height windows, ushers openness and light. Onmiyat says superior service is built into the core experience across its portfolio of 'unparalleled' residential, commercial and hospitality properties. So a full suite of concierge offerings will include reception, meeting room management, spa and wellness coordination, lifestyle bookings, personal services, and bespoke experiences, such as event planning, luxury travel arrangements, and private shopping. Managed by Omniyat, these five-star services will draw from the brand's experience delivering high-touch hospitality across its award-winning commercial towers, residences and hotels, including Enara by Omniyat, and The Opus. Lumena has been designed to meet the latest British Council for Offices (BCO) standards, supporting occupancy density of one person per 10 sqm while maintaining spacious, high-end environments. And the developer is targeting multiple world-class certifications, reflecting commitment to sustainability, occupant wellbeing, and technological integration. These include LEED Platinum certification - the world's highest rating for sustainable commercial developments - while Lumena is projected to achieve Platinum WELL Certification from the WELL Building Standard, plus Platinum WiredScore and SmartScore Certifications, the global standards for digitally connected and technologically advanced smart buildings. On the upper office floors, occupants will have exclusive access to the Executive Club. A purpose-built environment that integrates luxury, discretion, and convenience, the dedicated space will feature private lounges, meeting zones, and concierge support, all tailored to the needs of senior decision-makers. Meanwhile, at the building summit, the Sky Theatre will offer a stunning venue for high-level forums, product launches, and executive gatherings - with panoramic views across Dubai. Advanced acoustics, LED walls, and modular seating will support a variety of functions. And with wellness central to Lumena's philosophy, the Executive Wellness Suite is set to feature high-performance training and recovery zones, designed to support peak physical and mental performance. Another highlight, the Sky Pool, will be suspended above the city and surrounded by biophilic landscaping to deliver a 'rare sense of stillness and perspective'. With the addition of a business club on Level 34, the tower seeks to offer a future-forward take on work-life synergy. Internationally renowned architects and consultants will help realise Lumena, including amenities integrated across the tower and podium to support productivity, wellness, and world-class executive-level experiences. The interconnected podium will house six curated retail concepts, fine dining, and wellness and lifestyle facilities designed to serve building occupants as well guests from the Business Bay and Downtown communities. With dual vehicular access points they will be able to easily utilise the property's 1,000-plus parking spaces, including designated areas for office use, retail operations, and visitors. Lumena builds on the success of The Opus and Enara as the next evolution in an Omniyat portfolio designed for business leaders, creatives, and innovators seeking workspaces that reflect growth and ambition. 'This exceptional project reflects Omniyat's ongoing commitment to shaping the commercial landmarks of tomorrow,' adds Mr Amjad. By mastering what the homegrown company calls 'The Art of Elevation', and merging ultra-luxury with curated living, it pledges to deliver bespoke designs and experiences encasing residential, hospitality, and retail spaces, alongside its other iconic masterpieces, including One at Palm Jumeirah Residences, ORLA, and The Lana.


Khaleej Times
33 minutes ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai travel: Emirates adds third daily flight to Barcelona
Emirates on Friday, June 20, announced that it will increase the frequency of flights to Barcelona in Spain. The Dubai-based flag carrier said that it will operate a third daily flight starting from October 26, 2025. The airline said that the added service will offer passengers greater connectivity to/from the coastal city as well as access to popular destinations across Emirates' network including Maldives, Bangkok, Bali, Hong Kong and Singapore. Emirates currently serves Spain with 28 weekly flights utilising a fleet mix of A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft, including: 14 weekly flights to Madrid; and 14 weekly flights to Barcelona including 7 weekly flights from Dubai to Mexico City via Barcelona.