Global payments giant Visa will headline GITEX Africa 2025 in Marrakech, Morocco, as the official Financial Innovation Partner. The tech and investment expo, set to run from 14 to 16 April, will spotlight the continent’s growing digital economy — and Visa is banking on it.
The announcement reinforces Visa’s long-term commitment to digital growth in Africa, building on its earlier pledge to invest significantly in the region’s digital transformation by 2027. The company’s participation will highlight how digital payments can help drive financial inclusion and create seamless, secure ecosystems for businesses and consumers alike.
“This partnership underscores our belief in Africa’s potential as a fintech powerhouse,” said Leila Serhan, Visa’s Senior Vice President for North Africa, Levant and Pakistan. Visa’s footprint on the continent continues to grow, with the company forging strong ties across startups, government agencies, and enterprise players to catalyse innovation.
Football, Fintech and Fan Experience Collide
Ahead of Morocco hosting the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2025, Visa is doubling down on its football-tech synergy. At GITEX Africa, the company will unveil its immersive “Visa Connected Stadium” experience — showcasing how digital payments will simplify everything from ticketing to transit and in-stadium purchases.
The experience is designed to give a glimpse into how a cashless AFCON might look and feel. Visitors on the opening day will also be treated to a rare opportunity: an up-close view of the official AFCON and WAFCON trophies. “We’re not just supporting sports — we’re elevating the fan experience through smart payments,” said Godfrey Sullivan, Senior Vice President at Visa.
Visa Accelerator Program Takes the Spotlight
Another highlight at GITEX Africa will be the Visa Accelerator Program Demo Day. Eighteen pan-African fintech startups — fresh off 12 weeks of intensive mentorship and training — will pitch their solutions live on the 10X Stage on 15 April. The session begins at 14:15pm in Hall 23, with a crowd of VCs, Visa leadership, and key industry players expected in attendance.
This is the third edition of the accelerator, and it’s poised to shine a light on Africa’s next generation of fintech disruptors. The program has offered startups access to funding opportunities, expert coaching, and critical business development resources.
Top Visa executives including Andrew Torre, Leila Serhan, Sami Romdhane, and Godfrey Sullivan will feature on various panels throughout the conference, sharing insights into the company’s Africa strategy and digital payment innovations.
Visa invites all attendees to explore their latest technologies and initiatives at Stand 16B-20 in Hall 16. With the fintech ecosystem on the rise, the company’s presence at GITEX Africa 2025 signals a bold move toward shaping the continent’s financial future.
- 7 Nigerian Startups to Pitch at Africa Tech Summit London 2025
- Dangote Group Wins Big at Brand Africa Awards 2025
- Lagos to Host Bold Product Builders for $2K Grand Prize
- Google Unveils Subtle ‘G’ Icon Makeover Before I/O 2025
- Jude Dike to Teach Lean Product Building at Lagos Startup Expo 2025
I am passionate about crafting stories, vibing to good music (and making some too), debating Nigeria’s political future like it’s the World Cup, and finding the perfect quiet spot to work and unwind.
One reply on “Visa Joins GITEX Africa 2025 to Drive Fintech Future”
[…] than just a strategy forum, the event will also celebrate outstanding work in African broadcasting. The AUB Media Awards 2025 will […]