Mastercard and Congolese fintech Flash have announced a strategic partnership to expand access to digital payment solutions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Under the agreement, Flash will issue physical and virtual prepaid Mastercard cards through its FlashApp super app. The move allows users to make payments online and at point-of-sale terminals, complementing the platform’s existing mobile money, remittances, merchant, and bill payment services.
The DRC, with a population exceeding 100 million, continues to face challenges in financial inclusion. The collaboration aims to bridge cash and digital economies by leveraging Flash’s network of over 4,000 agents and 160 agencies, which serves more than three million customers across the DRC and Republic of Congo.
Jonathan Johannesen, CEO of Flash, described the partnership as a key step in modernising payments infrastructure in Central Africa. “This collaboration allows us to bridge cash and digital economies at scale, unlocking access to card-based financial services for millions of users who have historically been excluded,” he said.
Mastercard’s global network and security features are expected to enhance trust and usability for Flash users. Mohamed Benomar, Mastercard’s country manager for North West Africa, emphasised the commitment to inclusive digital payments in the region.
The partnership builds on Mastercard’s ongoing efforts to support financial inclusion in Africa through local collaborations. No specific timelines for full rollout or projected user numbers were disclosed.
FlashApp is available on major app stores and provides over 27 financial services. The addition of Mastercard cards is intended to increase convenience and participation in the formal economy.
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