Visa has reinforced its presence in East Africa with the appointment of John Njoroge as Country Manager and Senior Business Development Leader for Kenya, South Sudan, and Somalia.

This strategic move aligns with Visa’s commitment to accelerating digital payment adoption and financial inclusion across the region.

With over two decades of experience in banking and financial technology, Njoroge steps into this key role at a time when the digital payments ecosystem in East Africa is evolving rapidly.

His appointment signals Visa’s intention to deepen engagement with key stakeholders, expand access to digital financial solutions, and drive innovation in the region’s payment infrastructure.

A Vision for Growth and Inclusion

In his new capacity, Njoroge will spearhead Visa’s regional business strategies, focusing on encouraging strong partnerships, implementing new products, and expanding Visa’s reach.

His leadership is expected to drive the company’s mission of enhancing secure, seamless, and inclusive payment solutions that benefit businesses and consumers alike.

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“Visa has been instrumental in shaping the digital payments landscape across Africa,” said Njoroge. “I am excited to be part of a team that is committed to driving innovation and financial inclusion in Kenya, South Sudan, and Somalia. Our goal is to introduce solutions that create value for businesses and enhance the overall payment experience for consumers.”

An Industry Veteran with a Proven Track Record

Njoroge brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. Prior to joining Visa, he served as Regional Managing Director for East Africa at Network International, where he played a critical role in expanding digital payment services and forging strategic alliances.

His term as Chairman of the Kenya Credit & Debit Cards Association (KCDCA) further solidified his reputation as a transformative leader in the financial sector.

During his leadership at KCDCA, Njoroge championed key industry developments, including the transition from magnetic stripe cards to more secure Chip & PIN technology and the adoption of Near Field Communication (NFC) for contactless payments.

Additionally, he collaborated with regulatory bodies to strengthen security protocols and mitigate risks associated with card fraud, reinforcing consumer confidence in digital transactions.

Driving Innovation and Market Expansion

Under Njoroge’s stewardship, Visa is set to introduce new initiatives aimed at increasing digital payment penetration across diverse economic segments.

His ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and his deep industry relationships will be instrumental in positioning Visa as the preferred digital payments partner for businesses, governments, and financial institutions.

“We are delighted to welcome John to the Visa East Africa team,” said Chad Pollock, Vice President and General Manager for East Africa at Visa. “His extensive experience in financial technology, combined with his strategic acumen, will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our service offerings and drive digital transformation in Kenya, South Sudan, and Somalia.”

Strengthening Visa’s Commitment to East Africa

Visa has been actively investing in East Africa, forging partnerships with retailers, financial service providers, and small businesses to promote digital commerce.

Recent collaborations with leading retailers, including Carrefour, have incentivized the use of digital payment solutions, while initiatives like She’s Next Kenya have empowered women entrepreneurs by providing financial support and digital literacy programs.

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Njoroge’s appointment marks a new chapter for Visa in the region, one that promises deeper market penetration, enhanced security measures, and a more inclusive digital financial ecosystem.

As Visa continues to shape the future of payments in East Africa, Njoroge’s leadership will play a crucial role in driving adoption, promoting trust, and ensuring that digital payments become a cornerstone of economic growth in Kenya, South Sudan, and Somalia.

Looking Ahead

With a clear vision and a strong leadership team, Visa is set to play a key role in transforming East Africa’s financial landscape. Njoroge’s expertise, along with Visa’s robust digital payment infrastructure, will pave the way for greater financial access, security, and innovation in the region.