Telecel Money and Pharmacists partners to rollout digital payment in Burkina Faso

Telecel Money and the Economic Interest Group of Pharmacists of Burkina Faso (GIEPHAB) have signed a partnership agreement aimed at transforming pharmaceutical payments nationwide. The agreement also establishes a secure digital payment framework for medication purchases, merging healthcare accessibility with financial innovation. 

This collaboration introduces dual advantages: GIEPHAB's 2,500+ member pharmacies gain a modern transaction solution, while Telecel Money's extensive user base acquires a dedicated payment channel for medical needs. The system promises enhanced security and convenience for patients purchasing prescriptions, particularly in remote areas where cash transactions dominate. 

"Beyond transaction convenience, this partnership represents a leap in healthcare financial inclusion," noted Telecel Money's Country Manager during the signing ceremony. The initiative aligns with Burkina Faso's National Financial Inclusion Strategy, which targets 75% formal financial service usage by 2026. 

Pharmacists highlight operational benefits, including reduced cash handling risks and improved sales tracking. For patients, the mobile payment option eliminates the need to carry cash for urgent medical purchases while creating digital spending records for insurance and reimbursement purposes. 

The partnership builds on Telecel's growing fintech ecosystem in West Africa, following similar healthcare payment integrations in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. Implementation begins this quarter in Ouagadougou before expanding to regional capitals, with training programs for pharmacy staff underway. 

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye