Western Union has partnered with Zoona Transactions Zambia Limited and Chipper Cash to launch international money transfer services in Zambia via the Chipper Cash app. This initiative allows customers in Zambia to send and receive funds globally using a streamlined mobile platform a significant boost in convenience and access.
The integration combines Western Union’s established global network spanning more than 200 countries and territories and backed by 175 years of experience, with Chipper Cash and Zoona’s strong local footprint. Zoona, a Zambian fintech firm acquired by Chipper Cash in 2022, now serves approximately 5 million customers across Africa.
The partnership brings the two worlds together, enabling local wallet-to-world transfers and global cash pickups through Western Union’s extensive distribution points. Zambian users can top up their Chipper Cash wallet through a variety of channels; retailers, banks, ATMs, or mobile network operators and initiate international transfers directly from their smartphones (Android or iOS).
Funds can be sent to mobile wallets worldwide or collected in cash at Western Union locations abroad. Plans are in place to enable payouts into international bank accounts shortly, further broadening use cases.
“Zambia’s digitally savvy population of over 20 million is driving a remarkable shift toward mobile-first financial solutions,” said Mohamed Touhami el Ouazzani, Western Union’s Regional Vice President of Africa. “Integrating our international money transfer services in the Chipper Cash app means customers can transfer funds across our global network – reliably and with ease. I am delighted then that, together, we are expanding the possibilities for Zambians to connect, transact and thrive in the global economy.”
Brett Magrath, CEO of Zoona and Chief Product Officer at Chipper Cash, added: “This partnership marks the next chapter in Zambia’s financial evolution from USSD to richer, app‑based experiences.”
He emphasised that smartphone uptake is increasing demand for more robust digital services beyond basic mobile banking USSD codes.
The trio companies said the move aligns with their shared mission of delivering financial services that are accessible to all Zambians, regardless of formal banking status a critical goal in a nation where a significant portion of the population remains unbanked or under‑banked.
Remittances form a vital pillar of Zambia’s economy, supporting households in areas such as education, healthcare, and consumption. Migrant earnings sent back home often bypass traditional banking channels, making safe, reliable remittance options crucial. By combining Western Union’s infrastructure with Chipper Cash’s mobile platform, the service empowers users who rely on digital wallets rather than brick‑and‑mortar financial institutions.
This partnership signals growing confidence in the potential of mobile‑first fintech in Zambia and across Africa. As mobile penetration continues to rise and smartphone use spreads, services like these are poised to become mainstream.
Western Union has also emphasised its interest in leveraging stablecoins and artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and reduce friction in remittances, particularly amid macroeconomic and regulatory uncertainty in various regions. While these technologies are still emerging, they reflect the company’s evolving strategic direction toward digital innovation.
The Chipper Cash app is available for download on both Android and iOS smartphones. To initiate a Western Union transaction, customers can use funds stored in their Chipper Cash wallet. The wallet can be conveniently topped up at multiple cash and digital payment touchpoints, including retailers, mobile network operators, banks and ATMs.
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