Dashen Bank, Visa enter five-year deal focused on Ethiopia’s digital payments ecosystem
Dashen Bank and Visa have entered into a five year strategic partnership which is aimed at expanding digital payments in Ethiopia, with the two companies set to work together on payment acceptance, card issuance, cross-border transactions and new digital payment experiences.
The agreement comes as Ethiopia’s financial sector continues to shift towards digital channels, creating growing demand for payment services that can reach more consumers, businesses and merchants. The partnership will focus on expanding access to digital payments while supporting the wider development of the country’s digital economy.
Under the agreement, Dashen Bank and Visa will work to increase the acceptance of digital payments across the country and expand the bank’s card issuance capabilities. The two companies will also strengthen cross-border payment services and explore new payment experiences designed around the changing needs of Ethiopian consumers and businesses.
The collaboration is expected to give Dashen Bank customers greater access to digital financial services while helping merchants participate more extensively in the digital payments ecosystem.
“At Dashen Bank, innovation and customer value are at the heart of everything we do. This strategic partnership with Visa strengthens our ability to provide world-class payment solutions that are secure, convenient and accessible to more Ethiopians. Together, we will expand access to digital payments, enhance the customer experience and contribute to Ethiopia’s ongoing digital transformation by enabling individuals and businesses to participate more fully in the modern economy.” Said Asfaw Alemu CEO of Dashen Bank.
The partnership also provides a long-term framework for the two companies to develop payment solutions, strengthen acceptance infrastructure and encourage greater use of digital payment services.
For Dashen Bank, the agreement builds on its position as one of Ethiopia’s largest private financial institutions. The bank serves millions of customers through its branch network, merchant relationships and digital banking platforms and has continued to invest in expanding access to modern financial services.
For Visa, the partnership expands its collaboration with a major Ethiopian financial institution as the country develops its digital payments infrastructure.
“This agreement with Dashen Bank marks an important milestone in Visa’s commitment to advancing the future of payments in Ethiopia. By combining Visa’s global network, innovation capabilities and deep payments expertise with Dashen Bank’s strong market presence and customer reach, we will accelerate the adoption of secure digital payments, support financial inclusion and create new opportunities for consumers, businesses and the broader economy” said Yared Woldesenbet, Cluster Head, Eastern Africa and Country Manager, Ethiopia, Visa
The five year agreement will therefore centre on increasing digital payment usage and acceptance while supporting broader financial inclusion and participation in Ethiopia’s digital economy. The companies said the partnership aligns with efforts to expand access to digital financial services and support the country’s wider development priorities.
Real ESG impact doesn’t happen in panels alone, it happens in the rooms where financiers, operators, and policymakers actually align. Our GreenShift Forum 2026 cuts the noise, bringing together the people rewiring Africa’s sustainability and energy frameworks for one focused day in Nairobi. Secure your seat.
Go to TECHTRENDSKE.co.ke for more tech and business news from the African continent and across the world.
Follow us on WhatsApp, Telegram, Twitter, and Facebook, or subscribe to our weekly newsletter to ensure you don’t miss out on any future updates. Send tips to info@techtrendsmedia.co.ke
