I&M Bank has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Visa aimed at accelerating the growth of digital payments and strengthening Kenya’s payment infrastructure.
The collaboration seeks to deepen the adoption of Visa-powered solutions in Kenya while advancing I&M Bank’s digitisation agenda. The move is expected to enhance secure payment systems, expand financial inclusion, and support regional trade through improved cross-border capabilities.
Driving Digitisation and Financial Inclusion
The partnership will focus on upgrading payment systems, particularly in underserved areas, to broaden access to secure digital financial services. By expanding digital payment infrastructure, the two institutions aim to create more inclusive opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.
Kihara Maina, Regional CEO of I&M Bank, said the agreement marks a new phase in the bank’s digital transformation journey.
“We are delighted to strengthen our long-standing partnership with Visa through this strategic agreement, which advances our digitisation agenda and ambition to build a robust digital payment infrastructure in Kenya. This next phase is about scaling our success in our home market and accelerating growth,” he said.
He added that deepening collaboration locally will expand access to innovative Visa-powered solutions, enhance cross-border capabilities for customers and businesses, and deliver faster, more secure and seamless payment experiences.
Enhancing Consumer and Business Payments
According to Chad Pollock, Vice President and General Manager for Visa East Africa, the partnership aligns with Visa’s commitment to innovation across the region.
“By combining Visa’s global network and payment expertise with I&M Bank’s strong regional presence and deep market knowledge, we will deliver increased value to consumers and businesses with tools to make their financial lives simpler and more secure,” Pollock said.
Under the partnership:
For Consumers
Customers will benefit from faster and more secure card transactions, seamless online and mobile payments, enhanced fraud protection, and access to innovative Visa-powered solutions designed to simplify everyday payments.
For Businesses and SMEs
Small and medium enterprises will gain wider card acceptance, improved e-commerce capabilities, efficient payment processing, and easier cross-border transactions to support regional and international trade.
For Cross-Border Customers
The agreement promises smoother international payment flows, improved foreign exchange efficiencies, and stronger connectivity to global commerce networks.
Strengthening Kenya’s Digital Economy
The collaboration underscores I&M Bank’s commitment to delivering secure, reliable and innovative digital payment solutions. By strengthening Kenya’s digital payment ecosystem, the partnership is expected to support economic growth, boost regional trade, and accelerate the country’s transition toward a cash-lite economy.