Somalia, 12 September 2023: Mastercard is launching Classic and Platinum Debit Cards in partnership with Amal Bank, one of the largest banks in Somalia in terms of its branch network and customers. This partnership will grant consumers greater accessibility to Mastercard’s global services, and Amal Bank’s local availability and services.
As leaders in technology and payment services, Mastercard and Amal Bank’s joint offering will strengthen their value proposition for customers in Somalia. With the new joint Classic and Platinum Debit Cards, consumers will be able to make global transactions, enjoy the freedom of easier, safer, and more convenient banking services, and have greater access to the global marketplace.
“Our partnership with Mastercard is a proud moment not only for Amal Bank, but we know that it will also bring many Somalian consumers into the digital fold. This forms part of our strategy to serve both the banked and the underbanked within Somalia, offering them access to safer, easier, and more convenient payment offerings,” says Said Ali Shire, CEO of Amal Bank. “Get it at your local branch, and enjoy it globally.”
Available to Classic and Platinum Debit Card holders, the Amal Bank card can be used across POS (Point of Sale) and ATM (Automated Teller Machine) terminals in Somalia, when travelling outside of the country, and on eCommerce sites. To apply for an Amal Bank card, consumers can visit their nearest branch, along with proof of identity. Priceless services and experiences include airline, hotel and travel discounts and access to a suite of airport lounges are amongst the benefits for the Platinum Debit card holders.
The new suite of cards will include contactless payment, ensuring a fast and secure checkout experience, whilst also empowering consumers to choose how they want to pay.
“Mastercard is committed to driving financial inclusion and providing digital solutions that help customers make secure and seamless transactions. By providing consumers with access to safe and convenient payment solutions such as this, we believe that this partnership will help drive economic growth and improve the lives of millions of Somalians,” says Shehryar Ali, Senior Vice President and Country Manager for East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands at Mastercard. “We are proud to collaborate with Amal Bank to enhance the drive to access financial services, enabling more people to enter the digital economy, and as a leader in the payments technology industry, we will continue to provide our customers with the best solutions and experiences,” adds Ali.
