Awash Bank S.C, the first and the leading private financial institution in Ethiopia, has partnered with Mastercard to introduce the Awash pre-paid cards.
The Mastercard-branded international prepaid plastic card was launched at Awash Bank’s Headquarters.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s card business. This card will enable customers and merchants to make and receive payments online from anywhere in the world.
The plastic card will offer added flexibility and convenience to customers. This is because it is enabled to make contact or contactless transactions on ATMs and POS machines.
Additionally, the plastic card can be used by customers to withdraw cash from ATMs and pay on POS terminals.
Despite this, customers can also shop online at any merchant locations worldwide where the card is accepted.
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“The virtual card also offers customers the freedom to make online purchases at any merchant website worldwide where Mastercard is accepted,” the statement read in part.
Awash Mastercard features
One of the key features of the new Mastercard is that customers can load cash onto the card at Forex bureaus.
The new option of depositing money to the card, makes it an ideal choice for international payments and travel-related expenses.
“This innovative offering is a testament to Awash Bank’s commitment to delivering convenient and secure financial solutions to our customers,” said Yohannes Merga, Senior Chief, Marketing Officer for Awash Bank.
“Awash Mastercard empowers travelers with the freedom to manage their finances seamlessly while exploring the world,” he added.
Mastercard’s Payment Gateway Services
Along with the card, the bank will also introduce Mastercard’s Payment Gateway Services (MPGS). The card will diversify and expand Awash Bank’s service offering.
MPGS allows local merchants that have mobile applications or websites to integrate with it and accept international payments online.
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With this service, Customers from all over the world can place online orders and reservations. In addition, it can be used to pay merchants that are integrated with MPGS using their cards.
“This collaboration with Awash Bank is driving our commitment as Mastercard to enable financial inclusion across Africa. Our technological advancements in the payments landscape, enable consumers to be connected to endless possibilities, when transacting, in a safe, secure, and simple manner, which places power and convenience in their hands,” said Shehryar Ali, Senior Vice President and Country Manager for East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands at Mastercard.
Awash Bank’s international prepaid card is available to any traveler above the age of 18. Interested parties have been asked to visit the Forex Bureau and open a bank account.
On their visit they must present essential travel documents such as a passport, visa, and flight ticket.
