Travel Agents and Businesses will now be able to leverage a superior card payment offering thanks to a partnership between Absa Bank Kenya and Visa. This collaboration has ushered in the Visa Commercial Choice Programme, a bespoke Corporate Card solution designed specifically for members of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA). With this initiative, over 300 travel agencies represented by KATA can now enjoy unprecedented benefits such as automation, enhanced flexibility, and improved cash flow management.

This strategic alliance between Absa Bank and Visa introduces the Visa Commercial Choice Travel Programme, tailored to significantly empower travel agents. By offering payment options in both Kenyan Shillings and US Dollars, the programme aims to facilitate efficient cash flow management and optimize working capital for travel agents. Furthermore, the integration of the Visa Commercial Pay Virtual Card Platform is set to revolutionise booking processes, providing travel agents with superior data management and reconciliation tools, all within an intuitive and user-friendly interface.

In tandem with this innovative programme, Absa Bank has also unveiled an updated version of the Absa Corporate Visa Card. This revamped card comes packed with enhanced features and greater flexibility, addressing the diverse challenges faced by businesses of all sizes. It offers increased visibility and control over employee-initiated expenses and payments, marking a significant step forward in financial management for businesses.

Moses Muthui, Consumer Banking Director at Absa Bank, highlighted the significance of this partnership, emphasizing the mutual goal of empowering businesses and promoting digital inclusion with smarter, integrated payment solutions. “This solution is designed to help travel agents secure business more confidently, without the anxiety of payment failures or the strain of paying suppliers upfront,” Muthui explained.

Eva Ngigi-Sarwari, Visa Kenya Country Manager, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, underscoring the commitment to innovation, convenience, and service excellence shared by Visa and Absa Bank Kenya. The synergy between Visa’s global reach and advanced technology with Absa’s deep market expertise is expected to significantly enhance the transaction management experience for travel agents, providing a seamless, efficient, and secure experience.

Echoing these sentiments, Nicanor Sabula, CEO of KATA, lauded the strategic collaboration as a crucial milestone for their members. The Absa Corporate Visa Card, tailored for KATA members, embodies a commitment to delivering industry-focused financial solutions and reflects a deep understanding of the unique business needs of travel agents.

With features like the option between virtual and physical cards, Visa Commercial Pay for seamless payments to suppliers, and access to Absa Bank’s broader financial solutions, the Absa Corporate Visa Card represents a holistic approach to addressing the financial management needs of travel agents and businesses. This initiative not only reinforces Absa Bank Kenya’s dedication to innovation and service excellence but also underscores its role as a key player in enhancing the business landscape in Kenya and beyond.