Visa has named Congolese musician Fally Ipupa as the official brand ambassador for Visa Pay in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The announcement was made at a media event in Kinshasa and links the artist with a global payments network to promote digital payments and financial inclusion in support of the DRC central bank’s 2027 cashless agenda.
Visa Pay availability and features#
Launched in the DRC in September 2025, Visa Pay is an interoperable payments and ecommerce solution. It allows consumers to pay, receive payments and move money through a dedicated mobile app on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, as well as within the mobile applications of participating banks, mobile operators and fintechs.
Visa Pay is currently available through the following financial institutions:
- Access Bank
- Sofibanque
- Solidaire Banque
- UBA
Trust Merchant Bank Pepele customers can access Visa Pay directly within the Pepele app. Several other financial institutions are integrating the platform.
Consumers can open an account and receive a free digital Visa card through participating institutions on the Visa Pay app. The solution enables users to pay for goods and services online, send money to another Visa Pay user using a registered mobile number without entering bank account details, and tap to pay at contactless payment terminals with an eligible phone, removing the need to carry cash or present a physical card.
Ambassador role and creative economy focus#
Through the collaboration, Fally Ipupa will appear in consumer campaigns, exclusive digital content, public appearances and community engagement initiatives designed to promote digital payments. Visa said the partnership also reflects its interest in engaging with Africa’s music and creative industries and supporting creators and entrepreneurs in the digital economy.
Visa said it continues to invest in solutions for consumers, merchants, mobile operators and financial institutions across Africa.
Executive and artist comments#
“Mr. Fally Ipupa embodies innovation, ambition and progress, values that are deeply aligned with Visa’s mission to uplift everyone, everywhere by being the best way to pay and be paid,” said Sophie Kafuti, Managing Director, Visa DRC. “His influence extends beyond music. He connects generations, uplifts communities and audiences across Africa and the diaspora. This partnership is rooted not only in his reach, but also in our shared belief that creativity and technology can open new opportunities. Together, we will help more consumers discover how simple, secure and convenient digital payments can be, while strengthening Visa’s engagement with Africa’s creative economy.”
“Music has always been about bringing people together, creating opportunities and inspiring people to dream bigger. I see the same potential in digital innovation. I am proud to partner with Visa Pay and I hope to encourage more Congolese consumers to embrace the digital economy, connect to new opportunities and participate in the future with confidence,” said Fally Ipupa.
