American Express (Amex) has been present in Africa for more than a century, initially establishing its footprint through a partnership with the Bank of Africa in the 1890s.

In recent years, as the payments landscape has evolved, Amex has made strides to increase its presence across the continent, offering more payment solutions to businesses and consumers.

The company's efforts focus on expanding acceptance of American Express Cards, launching new products, and providing additional services for Amex Cardmembers in various African countries.

Partnerships and payment solutions

A significant part of American Express’s expansion in Africa has been driven by partnerships with local banks and fintech companies.

In South Africa, Amex has maintained a longstanding collaboration with Nedbank, a major financial institution, for more than 50 years.

Nedbank was the first to issue American Express Cards in the region in 1968 and continues to manage both card issuance and merchant acceptance in several countries, including Lesotho, Eswatini, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.

In East and West Africa, American Express operates through licensed banks, and its North African activities are handled through a joint venture with American Express Middle East.

The company recently strengthened its reach by collaborating with Flutterwave, a major payment technology business in Africa.

This partnership allows American Express Cardmembers to make online payments through Flutterwave’s platform in Nigeria, with further expansion planned for Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana, and Uganda.

Additionally, an agreement with Ecobank has brought Amex card acceptance to 12 new countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, expanding the company’s presence in 42 countries across the region.

Supporting retail growth

As part of its ongoing investment in the African market, Amex has introduced several new products and services. In Nigeria, O3 Capital launched three consumer credit cards, including the first Amex Business Card in the country.

Last year, Access Bank also introduced the American Express Gold and Platinum Cards in Nigeria. To further support its operations, American Express opened an office in Lagos earlier this year.

American Express’s goal is to create a robust ecosystem of businesses that accept Amex Cards and to make it easier for consumers to use them.

By expanding payment options, Amex aims to support the retail sector in Africa, allowing businesses to attract a broader customer base, including international travellers and small business owners.