I&M Bank, Mastercard Launch Mastercard World Elite Metal Credit Card in Kenya

I&M Bank has expanded its premium banking portfolio with the introduction of the Mastercard World Elite metal credit card, targeting affluent customers seeking enhanced travel, lifestyle and global payment experiences.

Developed in partnership with Mastercard, the new offering makes I&M Bank one of the latest financial institutions in East Africa to issue the prestigious World Elite status on a metal credit card. The bank said the product is tailored for high-value clients who require secure international payments, exclusive privileges and seamless access to premium services worldwide.

The card provides eligible customers with access to The Mastercard Collection, a package of premium travel, dining and entertainment benefits available to World Elite cardholders. These include airport lounge access, Fast Track airport services, priority restaurant reservations and entry to exclusive entertainment experiences, alongside access to Mastercard’s Taste by Priceless dining spaces at selected international airports.

Unlike some premium cards, the Mastercard World Elite credit card does not require a minimum spending threshold for cardholders to unlock its benefits. Customers will have access to the full range of privileges immediately after qualifying for the card.

The product also incorporates advanced security features, including real-time fraud monitoring, purchase protection, emergency assistance services and a dedicated customer support line designed specifically for World Elite cardholders.

I&M Bank Regional Chief Executive Officer Kihara Maina said the new card reflects changing expectations among Kenya’s affluent professionals and internationally mobile customers, who increasingly value access to exclusive experiences over traditional status symbols.

Mastercard’s Country Manager for East Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands, Shehryar Ali, said the collaboration demonstrates the growing demand for sophisticated payment solutions among Kenya’s high-income consumers.

“This is far more than a product launch. It is a commitment to connecting Kenya’s most discerning consumers to their everyday passions, ensuring they have seamless, secure access to the same world-class privileges and priceless experiences available anywhere in the world.” He added.

However, the launch comes as Kenya’s high-net-worth population continues to expand. Industry data shows the country’s affluent population grew by 14% between 2015 and 2025, driving demand for premium banking products that combine international acceptance with exclusive travel and lifestyle rewards.

Furthermore, I&M Bank said the new Mastercard World Elite metal credit card is intended to meet the evolving needs of this customer segment by offering a combination of global accessibility, enhanced security and premium lifestyle benefits.

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