Barclays Bank of Kenya is considering integrating digital payment capabilities into its virtual banking platform through a partnership with WeChat Pay and Alipay.

According to Andrew Mwithiga, head of virtual banking at the Barclays Bank of Kenya, developments telecommunications and internet connectivity have made mobile phones a key channel, compelling banks to innovate and reach clients on digital and social media platforms in order to remain competitive.

«We are keen to enter into strategic partnerships that transcends banks, telecommunication and financial technology companies both within inside and outside the country and this may include Wechat Pay and Alipay in order to improve our customer experience,» Mwithiga said during a university forum, according to a «Xinhua» report. 

China-Kenya Relations

During the Nairobi-based forum, Mwithiga reportedly underlined not only the impressive economic prowess of China but also its relation with Kenya and its emergence as a key trading partner. This has consequently reulsted in the need for seamless channels for cross-border transactions.

«We are now seeing small entrepreneurs source goods directly from China resulting in the need for innovative digital platforms to send money across borders,» Mwithiga explained.