Global fintech firm Cross Switch has expanded into Kenya, teaming up with local payment provider ‘Pesawise’ in a move aimed at capturing a pie of the country’s fast-growing digital payments market.
- •The partnership brings Cross Switch’s unified payments infrastructure to Kenya, allowing merchants to accept payments across card networks, mobile money, and bank transfers.
- •By joining forces with Pesawise, a fintech licensed by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), Cross Switch will operate under its partner’s regulatory grounding and access local market expertise.
- •Kenya’s dominance in mobile money transactions first has made it an attractive destination for fintech firms looking to scale across East Africa.
“During the establishment phase of this partnership it is refreshing to see a shared common set of values with Pesawise, to provide our customers with best-in-class service levels and straightforward solutions. And a common mission to democratize technology and drive social impact across Africa,” said Cross Switch’s CEO, Tim Davis.
Cross Switch is positioning itself as a player that can offer simplified, cost-efficient transaction processing with quick settlement times. These features have become increasingly important for businesses ranging from hospitality, e-commerce, to delivery services.
“We’re thrilled to take this next step in our journey with Cross Switch as our technology partner. Together, we aim to strengthen the digital payments ecosystem in Kenya. We’ve already secured key wins together—including supporting merchants like Glovo Kenya—through a combination of Cross Switch’s expertise and our dedicated local team,” Jamal Khan, Pesawise’s CEO said.
The Kenyan launch forms part of a broader African expansion by Cross Switch, which is already active in several markets across the continent and Latin America. With competition in the payments space intensifying, the firm is betting that its combination of global technology and local partnerships will give it an edge in a seemingly crowded market.
Over the years, fintechs that intend to explore other markets have opted for partnerships with local and established firms. This is likely due to the months and even years of delay that define licensing procedures in many African countries.
Moreover, leveraging on local firms’ infrastructure, merchant relationships, and reputation could ease expansion and reduce costs and mitigate risks. For local fintechs, these partnerships are opportunities for new skill sets and potential acquisition from more globalized peers.
