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Dashen Bank and Visa Sign Partnership to Accelerate Digital Payments in Ethiopia

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Last updated: September 19, 2026 at 5:44 AM
Dashen Bank and Visa Sign Partnership to Accelerate Digital Payments in Ethiopia
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Dashen Bank, one of Ethiopia's leading private banks and Visa, a world leader in digital payments, today announced a strategic five-year

partnership designed to accelerate digital payment adoption, expand financial inclusion and support the continued growth of Ethiopia's digital economy.

The agreement reinforces a shared commitment to delivering secure, innovative and convenient payment solutions that empower consumers, businesses and merchants across the country. 

Through the partnership, Visa and Dashen Bank will collaborate to grow digital payment acceptance, expand card issuance, strengthen cross-border payment capabilities and introduce innovative payment experiences that address the evolving needs of Ethiopian consumers and

businesses. The collaboration is expected to contribute to the continued development of Ethiopia's payments ecosystem while supporting greater participation in the digital economy. 

As one of Ethiopia's largest private financial institutions, Dashen Bank serves millions of customers through an extensive nationwide network of branches, merchants and digital banking channels. The bank continues to play a leading role in driving innovation and expanding access to modern financial services across Ethiopia. 

"At Dashen Bank, innovation and customer value are at the heart of everything we do. This strategic partnership with Visa strengthens our ability to provide world-class payment solutions that are secure, convenient and accessible to more Ethiopians. Together, we will expand

access to digital payments, enhance the customer experience and contribute to Ethiopia's ongoing digital transformation by enabling individuals and businesses to participate more fully in the modern economy." Said Asfaw Alemu CEO of Dashen Bank.

The partnership establishes a framework for long-term collaboration focused on expanding payment innovation, strengthening acceptance infrastructure, driving digital payment usage and

delivering enhanced value to Dashen Bank customers. It also reflects both organizations’ commitment to supporting Ethiopia's national development priorities through greater financial inclusion and increased access to digital financial services. 

"This agreement with Dashen Bank marks an important milestone in Visa's commitment to advancing the future of payments in Ethiopia. By combining Visa's global network, innovation capabilities and deep payments expertise with Dashen Bank's strong market presence and customer reach, we will accelerate the adoption of secure digital payments, support financial inclusion and create new opportunities for consumers, businesses and the broader economy” said Yared Woldesenbet, Cluster Head, Eastern Africa and Country Manager, Ethiopia, Visa