CC image courtesy of Hans Olofsson on Flickr
Mobile network operator MTN has announced a partnership with online payments company Skrill to enable MTN subscribers to be able to make purchases from global internet brands that are integrated into Skrill’s network using funds in their mobile wallets. The partnership is being piloted in Ivory Coast and Rwanda.
The network said MTN Mobile Money subscribers in the two countries will begin to enjoy the Pay by Skrill service that it is introducing this month.
Pieter Verkade, MTN Group Chief Commercial Officer said, “Our partnership with Skrill is another important step in our journey to offer customers the ability to use mobile money for online purchases. Through this partnership, MTN is enabling global digital payments, further enhancing our mobile money wallet. After Ivory Coast and Rwanda, the service will be extended to Benin and Uganda, with other markets to follow soon thereafter.”
To make use of the service, MTN enjoins users to visit the website of a Skrill merchant, select a purchase and choose the option to pay by Skrill.
Nilesh Pandya, SVP of Emerging Markets at Skrill said, “Today, there are hundreds of millions of consumers who want to be a part of the digital revolution, but simply do not have the means to pay. Our partnership with MTN enables its 18.4 million mobile wallet customers to enjoy the benefits of digitisation that those in developed markets take for granted, and provides impetus for MTN’s remaining 200 million mobile subscribers to embrace mobile payments.
“Skrill is revolutionising digital markets by driving universal engagement in the digital world. This ground-breaking launch brings together leading mobile operators and online businesses, enabling global online brands to connect with consumers in emerging markets, and leverage the true power of digital transactions.”
MTN said there is no additional cost or charge for MTN Mobile Money payment when making purchases via a Skrill merchant website.
