Product
Mobile Money
Reach unbanked and underbanked customers across Africa. Accept and disburse payments directly through mobile wallets on MTN, Vodacom, Airtel, and more.
Mobile Money connects your business to the millions of people across sub-Saharan Africa who manage their finances through mobile wallets rather than traditional bank accounts. In markets like Zambia and Uganda, mobile money is not a secondary payment option, it is the primary financial infrastructure for a significant portion of the population, and any business serious about reaching those markets needs to operate within it.
RealPay's Mobile Money integration allows businesses to both collect payments from customers and disburse funds directly to mobile wallets across major African network operators including MTN, Vodacom, and Airtel. Transactions are processed instantly, settle in real time, and operate across borders, making Mobile Money one of the most practical tools available for businesses expanding into high-growth African markets where banking infrastructure is limited but mobile penetration is high.
For businesses managing field operations, agent networks, or cross-border supplier payments, Mobile Money also dramatically reduces the operational risks and costs associated with physical cash handling.
What's included
Wallet-to-Wallet Transfers
Collect payments from or disburse funds to any major mobile wallet in real time. No bank account required on either side of the transaction.
Financial Inclusion at Scale
Reach customers who have no access to traditional banking infrastructure. Mobile Money extends your commercial reach into markets and demographics that conventional payment rails cannot serve.
Reduced Cash Handling Risk
Replace physical cash with secure, trackable digital transactions, reducing theft risk, operational overhead, and reconciliation complexity in field-based or agent-driven operations.
Cross-Border Capability
Transact across borders with major African mobile network operators without the delays and costs of traditional correspondent banking or international wire transfers.
Decentralised Agent Network
Customers can top up or cash out their mobile wallets through a nationwide network of local agents, making access simple even in remote or rural areas.
Who it’s for
Mobile Money is the right integration for businesses operating in or expanding into markets with low banking penetration. Specific use cases include:
- FMCG distributors and field sales operations collecting payments from agents and stockists
- NGOs and development organisations disbursing grants or stipends to beneficiaries
- Businesses paying freelancers, gig workers, or rural staff who lack bank accounts
- Lenders and financial service providers offering microfinance products in mobile-first markets
- For anyone who needs secure payment solutions
Frequently asked questions
Which mobile networks does RealPay's Mobile Money integration support?
RealPay connects to major African mobile network operators including MTN and Airtel, covering Zambia and Uganda. Coverage expands as RealPay's African footprint grows.
Can Mobile Money be used for both collections and payouts?
Yes. The integration supports both inbound payments (customers paying your business) and outbound disbursements (your business paying customers, staff, or suppliers).
How do customers access cash from their mobile wallets?
Through a widespread network of local Mobile Money agents, typically found at small retail outlets, kiosks, or dedicated agent points, who facilitate secure cash-in and cash-out services.
How does Mobile Money compare to bank transfers for cross-border payments?
Mobile Money is typically faster, cheaper, and more accessible for cross-border African transactions than traditional correspondent banking, which involves multiple intermediaries, higher fees, and longer settlement times.
Is Mobile Money secure?
Yes. Transactions are authenticated by the mobile network operator using PIN or biometrics, and funds are held and tracked digitally, significantly more secure than physical cash.
Suited for
Payment flow
Integration
Included features