Kowri, a leading digital bank in Africa, has begun 2025 on an aggressive note, announcing its expansion into the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region through a strategic partnership with Velopay, a rapidly ascending fintech company in Namibia.
This collaboration aims to accelerate financial inclusion for underserved and underbanked individuals and businesses in Namibia and the broader SADC region and serves as the first step in the Ghanaian firm’s SADC market entry strategy.
Building on its recent market entry into Francophone Africa, starting with Côte d’Ivoire in October 2024, Kowri’s partnership with Velopay marks a significant step in its mission to provide a unified digital financial services platform across Africa, uniquely tailored to the African context.
Together, the companies will leverage their innovative technologies to offer accessible financial solutions, including mobile banking, digital payments, microloans, insurance, savings, and investment products.
“As Namibia positions itself in the digital economy, Velopay stands ready to support this transformation. We believe that by leveraging cutting-edge technology, we can develop accessible banking solutions that not only meet the current needs of our communities but also align with the strategic objectives of the Bank of Namibia”, said CEO of Velopay, Thabani Ncube.
Advancing financial empowerment across Africa
Kowri’s platform creates an end-to-end financial ecosystem that empowers customers to progress from basic payment solutions to wealth creation and financial protection services. The partnership with Velopay aligns with this vision by extending comprehensive digital financial services tailored to the needs of Namibian consumers and businesses.
“With the Central Bank’s commitment to fostering an inclusive financial environment, Velopay aims to be at the forefront of this movement.” said Velopay’s CEO. “ We are proud to contribute to the growth of a digital ecosystem that enhances convenience, security, and efficiency in financial transactions for all Namibians.”
“As we strengthen our presence in West Africa, the expansion into Southern Africa with Velopay is a pivotal move in our strategy to build a cohesive pan-African fintech ecosystem,” said Patrick George Quantson, Group Chief Executive of Kowri. “Namibia is a key market in the SADC region with a promising economic landscape. Through this partnership, we aim to provide greater access to financial services, contributing to the economic empowerment of local communities.”
Collaborating for comprehensive financial solutions
Kowri and Velopay will work jointly to develop a robust digital financial platform that addresses the specific needs of the Namibian market. This includes offering services such as mobile banking, e-wallets, digital loans, microinsurance, and investment opportunities—all accessible through an intuitive, user-friendly platform designed to serve the unbanked and underbanked.
Thabani Ncube, CEO of Velopay, stated, “Our collaborative efforts with Kowri will not only enhance our service offerings but will also resonate with the Central Bank’s vision of transforming the financial landscape. Together, we aim to create a safer, more inclusive environment for all, ensuring digital banking is accessible to every Namibian.”
Expanding footprint in key African Markets
Following its successful launch in Côte d’Ivoire, Kowri’s entry into Namibia demonstrates its commitment to scaling innovative financial services across the continent. This partnership signifies Kowri’s second expansion into a new African market within a few months, reinforcing its dedication to fostering financial inclusion and economic growth.
“We’re excited about the positive impact this collaboration with Velopay will have as we work together to empower individuals and businesses in Namibia and the SADC region,” added Quantson. “Our goal is to help build a stronger financial future by providing accessible, reliable, and tailored financial services. This MoU brings us closer to realizing our vision of a single digital marketplace for financial inclusion across Africa.”
“Our collaborative efforts with Kowri will not only enhance our service offerings but will also resonate with the Central Bank’s vision of transforming the financial landscape. Together, we aim to create a safer, more inclusive environment for all, ensuring digital banking is accessible to every Namibian”, concluded Thabani Ncube, CEO of Velopay
About Kowri
Kowri is an innovative fintech company providing end-to-end financial solutions for individuals and businesses across Africa. Focusing on financial inclusion, Kowri offers mobile payments, microloans, insurance, and investment products to underserved populations, facilitating easy access to financial tools that promote economic growth. Kowri currently operates in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Namibia, with plans to expand into additional African markets. Visit www.kowri.app for more information.
About Velopay
Velopay is an emerging fintech innovator in Namibia, specializing in digital payment solutions, financial products, and inclusive banking services tailored for underserved and unbanked populations across Namibia and Southern Africa. With its sights set on industry leadership, Velopay empowers local businesses by providing accessible and affordable financial services. For more information, visit velopay.tech .
