Chipper Cash, Western Union and Zoona introduce global money transfers to empower Zambians

Chipper Cash, Western Union and Zoona Transactions Zambia Limited have today announced the launch of international money transfer services within the Chipper Cash app. This co-branded service will transform how Zambians send and receive money globally, as well as empower them to connect financially with over 200 countries and territories, marking a significant step toward inclusive financial access.

The collaboration combines Western Union’s 175 years of global money transfer expertise with the local fintech prowess of Zoona and Chipper Cash. Zoona, acquired by Chipper Cash in 2022, is a leading payments platform in Zambia. Together, they serve 5 million customers across Africa. This initiative allows Chipper Cash app users to send funds to mobile wallets worldwide or for cash pickup at hundreds of thousands of locations. Bank account payouts are expected to roll out soon.

Zambia’s population exceeds 20 million, with a growing demand for mobile-first financial solutions. Smartphones are increasingly common, fuelling the shift from cash-based transactions to digital platforms. The Chipper Cash app, available on Android and iOS, enables users to fund transfers using their digital wallet. Wallets can be topped up at various touchpoints, including retailers, mobile networks, banks, and ATMs.

Commenting on the new offering, Mohamed Touhami el Ouazzani, Western Union’s Regional Vice President of Africa, said, “This partnership is a game-changer for Zambia. Our integration with Chipper Cash allows customers to transfer money reliably across our global network. We’re thrilled to help Zambians connect and thrive in the global economy.”

The service caters to Zambia’s diverse financial needs. Users can send money to support family abroad or receive funds from loved ones, regardless of banking status. This aligns with the shared mission of Western Union, Zoona, and Chipper Cash to make financial services accessible to all. In Zambia, where many lack traditional bank accounts, mobile apps like Chipper Cash bridge the gap.

Brett Magrath, CEO of Zoona and Chief Product Officer at Chipper Cash, emphasised the evolution of Zambia’s financial landscape. “We’ve seen Zambia move from cash-based systems to a vibrant digital ecosystem,” Magrath said. “With rising smartphone adoption, users want richer, app-based experiences. This partnership connects Zambia’s fintech ecosystem to global markets, delivering seamless digital services.”

Western Union’s established physical presence in Zambia complements this digital leap. The company already operates numerous agent locations for cash-based transactions. By integrating with Chipper Cash, Western Union expands its reach to tech-savvy users who prefer mobile solutions. The partnership reflects a broader trend in Africa, where fintech innovations are reshaping financial inclusion.

How Chipper Cash’s global money transfers work

The Chipper Cash app simplifies the transfer process. Users select Western Union services within the app, choose their recipient, and fund the transaction from their wallet. Funds can be sent to mobile wallets or collected in cash at Western Union’s extensive global network.

This launch comes at a critical time. Zambia’s economy is increasingly interconnected with the global market. Remittances play a vital role, supporting families and small businesses. In 2024, Sub-Saharan Africa received an estimated $54 billion in remittances, according to industry reports. Partnerships like this one make such flows faster and more accessible.

The collaboration also highlights the growing role of fintech in Africa. Zoona and Chipper Cash have built trust through innovative payment solutions. Their acquisition in 2022 strengthened their ability to scale services across the continent. By partnering with Western Union, they leverage a global brand known for reliability and reach.

For Zambians, the service offers flexibility. Whether sending money to a relative in the U.S. or receiving funds from Europe, users can choose the most convenient payout method. The upcoming addition of bank account transfers will further enhance options. This versatility is key in a country where financial needs vary widely.

The partnership underscores a shared commitment to financial inclusion. By removing barriers like banking status, Western Union, Zoona, and Chipper Cash empower more Zambians to participate in the global economy. As mobile adoption grows, such initiatives could redefine financial access across Africa.