According to MasterCard, the payment method known as airtel 1time Shopping Card will offer communities the opportunity for greater participation in the financial system as they realize the substantial benefits of mobile commerce.
This single use shopping card will soon be available in Kenya and rolled out to markets across Africa, subject to regulatory approvals.
airtel Africa customers in Kenya will soon be able to use their mobile phone to make online purchases from MasterCard merchants around the world.
The simplified online transaction will work in the following way; each time an airtel customer is shopping online he or she will be able to request a single use shopping card number. airtel money services will generate a special 16 digit number that enables the completion of the transaction.
On completion of the transaction, a confirmation message will be sent to the consumer’s handset. The single use feature of the airtel 1time Shopping Card provides the consumer with a convenient and secure online shopping experience.
Michael Miebach, division president for Middle East and Africa at MasterCard Worldwide said powered by MasterCard in Control technology the airtel 1time Shopping Card will enable more consumers to connect to the global marketplace via their mobile phones. Whether located in urban or rural communities, people will be able to participate in commerce from their hometown to anywhere in the world.
"We see mobile payments as an innovative way to let consumers quickly and securely purchase their favorite items in this connected world. These innovations at MasterCard also provide governments and other participants in the economy with a platform for financial inclusion," Miebach said.
