Free Online Payment Options for African Businesses

Africa’s payment history has transformed remarkably over the years, we have moved from traditional cash-based systems and barter trade to advanced digital payment solutions. The introduction of mobile money in the mid-2000s, pioneered by Kenya’s M-Pesa, marked a turning point. Mobile money allowed people to send, receive, and store money using their mobile phones, even without a bank account. This innovation brought millions of unbanked Africans into the formal financial system, providing a foundation for the growth of digital payments.

As internet access and smartphone usage expanded across the continent, online payment systems began to emerge. Platforms like Flutterwave, DPO, Paystack, and Pesapal have made it easier for businesses to accept payments digitally, both locally and internationally. These systems have simplified transactions, reduced the reliance on cash, and opened up new opportunities for businesses to grow. Online payments have also made it possible for businesses to operate more efficiently by offering faster, safer, and more convenient ways to handle money.

The impact of online payments on African economies has been significant. They have increased financial inclusion, allowing more people to access financial services and participate in the economy. Small businesses, in particular, have benefited from the ability to accept payments digitally, which has helped them reach more customers and grow faster.

Below are some of the best free online payment providers you can choose from in Africa:

1. Flutterwave

Flutterwave is a payment platform established in 2016. It enables businesses to collect payments both online and offline from customers in 33 African countries and internationally.

Features of Flutterwave:

Diverse payment options: It accommodates debit/credit cards, mobile wallets, and bank transfers.
Recurring payments: Businesses can set up and manage subscription-based payments. Fraud protection:
Advanced security tools are in place to protect transactions.
Broad acceptance and user-friendly interface

Get started: https://developer.flutterwave.com/docs/getting-started

2. Paystack

Paystack is a Nigerian fintech company that provides payment processing services to businesses. Acquired by Stripe in 2020, it enables businesses in Africa to accept payments globally through various methods like cards, bank transfers, mobile money, and more. Trusted by over 200,000 businesses, including major global brands, Paystack offers a reliable and secure payment solution backed by prominent investors. It's a solid choice for businesses in Africa seeking efficient payment processing.

Here are some key features of Paystack:

Multiple Payment Options: Paystack supports a wide range of payment methods, including debit/credit cards, bank transfers, USSD, mobile money, and POS.
Global Reach: Enables businesses to accept payments from anywhere in the world, making it easy to do business across borders.
Security: Equipped with advanced fraud protection and encryption to ensure safe transactions for businesses and their customers.
Quick Setup: Paystack offers a fast and seamless setup process for businesses to start accepting payments.

Get started: https://support.paystack.com/en/articles/2125250

3. DPO

DPO (formerly DPO PayGate) is a leading African payment service provider (PSP) that facilitates both online and offline payments for businesses. Operating in over 20 countries across Africa, DPO offers various payment solutions, including card payments, mobile money, and alternative payment methods.

Some of the features of DPO include:

Wide range of payment options: DPO supports a variety of payment methods, allowing businesses to cater to a wider customer base.
Secure and reliable platform: DPO's platform is PCI DSS Level 1 certified, ensuring the highest level of security for all transactions.
Easy integration: DPO's platform can be easily integrated with existing e-commerce platforms and systems.
24/7 customer support: DPO offers 24/7 customer support to assist businesses with any queries or issues.

Get started with DPO here: https://dpogroup.com/integration/

4. Pesapal

Pesapal is a popular payment service in East Africa that helps businesses accept payments both online and offline. It offers flexible payment options, including mobile money, and is well-suited for local businesses. With a strong focus on the needs of the East African market, Pesapal is a reliable choice for businesses looking for easy and secure payment solutions.

Here are some of Pesapal's features:

Diverse payment options: Pesapal supports a variety of payment methods, including mobile money platforms like M-Pesa, card payments (Visa, Mastercard), and bank transfers.
Online and offline solutions: Pesapal provides solutions for both online businesses and physical stores.
Focus on East Africa: Pesapal has a deep understanding of the East African market, and their solutions are tailored to the specific needs of businesses in this region.
Developer-friendly tools: Pesapal offers APIs and plugins that make it easy for businesses to integrate their payment solutions with existing e-commerce platforms and systems.

Get started: https://developer.pesapal.com/

5. Hubtel

Hubtel is a leading payment service provider in Ghana, offering businesses simple and secure solutions to accept payments online and offline. It supports various payment methods, including mobile money, bank transfers, and card payments. Hubtel also provides tools for invoicing, bill payments, and e-commerce, making it a convenient platform for businesses to manage transactions and grow their customer base in Ghana and beyond.

With Hubtel, you enjoy the following features:

Mobile Payments: A core function, enabling users to pay for utilities, airtime, goods and services at both online and physical stores via their mobile money platform.
E-commerce: Facilitates online shopping, connecting businesses with customers and providing tools for order and delivery management.
Financial Services: Offers digital financial services, including savings, loans, and insurance, often integrated with their mobile money platform.
Business Solutions: Provides businesses with tools for payment processing, inventory management, and customer relationship management to streamline operations.

Get Started: https://developers.hubtel.com/

6. Interswitch

Interswitch is a leading African payments and digital commerce company, founded in Nigeria in 2002. It offers comprehensive payment processing services, including transaction switching, payment gateway solutions, and card processing. Interswitch has pioneered the fintech revolution in Africa, providing the infrastructure that supports digital payments and financial services like the Verve card and Quickteller. By focusing on innovation and reliable payment solutions, Interswitch has played a key role in enabling financial inclusion, driving economic growth, and making digital transactions more accessible across the continent.

Here are some of the features of using Interswitch:

Payment Gateway: This is their core offering, enabling businesses to accept payments online and offline through various methods (cards, transfers, USSD, etc.).
Verve Card: This is a major card scheme in Africa, rivaling Visa and Mastercard in popularity within Nigeria.
Quickteller: This digital platform is incredibly popular for everyday transactions like bill payments, money transfers, and airtime top-up.
Financial Inclusion Focus: They develop solutions that make financial services accessible to a broader population, driving economic growth and empowerment.

Get started with Interswitch here: https://interswitchgroup.com/paymentgateway/

These are some of the leading payment service providers in Africa, though many other options are available. If you're looking to integrate payment solutions into your website, Weis Dev is here to help. Our team can guide you through the process and ensure a seamless integration. Contact us today via WhatsApp at +254 768 856 674 or email us at info@weisdev.com.