South African fintech Mama Money has introduced a bank card integrated with WhatsApp, designed to tackle barriers to conventional banking and improve financial access.
In collaboration with Access Bank and Pick n Pay, the Mama Money Card offers a seamless experience, enabling users to manage their accounts via WhatsApp. Cardholders can deposit cash, buy airtime or electricity, check balances, freeze their card instantly, shop online, make in-store purchases, withdraw cash from any ATM, and send money to over 70 countries globally.
Mathieu Coquillon, co-founder of Mama Money, highlighted the card’s appeal:
“We’ve seen big demand from employers who previously paid their staff in cash or via e-wallet. Each Mama Money Card comes with its own account number, making salary payments simple and giving cardholders full control of their money.”
The sign-up process is straightforward. Customers can register on the Mama Money app in minutes and collect their card at select Pick n Pay stores in Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban. The card costs a one-time fee of R99, with a monthly service charge of R25. International money transfers come with fees as low as 5%, depending on the destination.
Coquillon added:
“The Mama Money Card makes it easier for under-served communities to access banking services. All they need is proof of identity, such as a passport, asylum document, or South African ID, to register on their phone.”
This innovative product is set to address financial inclusion challenges while empowering individuals with greater financial control through accessible digital technology.