Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited (AMCUL) and the United
Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) have launched an open application
programming interface (API) initiative that will grant innovators easy and
secure online access to integrate their businesses with Airtel Money services,
making it easier for them to offer payment services to various value chains.
AMCUL Managing Director Japhet Aritho said that AMCUL has partnered with
key players in the digital financial space to empower and connect low-income
customers with access to and utilization of digital services that leverage
innovation and technology to promote financial inclusion.
He added that the success of such developments which accelerate the integration
of merchants with Airtel Money across the country hinged on impactful strategies
as exhibited today.
United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) Digital Regional
Manager, East and Southern Africa, Mike McCaffrey that opening their APIs
to third-party innovators, and financial services providers like Airtel Money
foster the growth of new solutions customized to the needs of the population,
especially the rural and low-income populations.”
On his part, the Managing Director of Airtel Uganda Mr. Manoj
Murali thanked AMCUL leadership for the good working relationship that
supports the agenda for Transforming Lives adding “We have continued to
provide the necessary infrastructure to partners like AMCUL to support their
agenda for accelerating digital financial inclusion. We have a sound network,
that is now 5G ready, that provides a good platform for innovators,
problem-solvers, and such players to create opportunities for growth for individuals
and communities”
In his remarks, the Minister of ICT & National Guidance, Dr. Chris
Baryomunsi commended the initiatives and efforts made towards promoting
digital financial inclusion and applauded all the present entities for the
tremendous effort made.
“The decision to leverage technology and innovation in the quest to drive
financial empowerment is a smart approach towards financial inclusion right
from the grassroots. I am pleased to learn that with open APIs, more people can
have access to affordable digital financial services to suit any need in any
sector whether it's health, agriculture, or education, among others. These are
the right firm steps taken to impact the bigger picture. As such, I would like
to appreciate Airtel Money and all partners present here for the tremendous
work done with today’s launch of the open APIs initiative,” he said.
