In a major move to improve digital accessibility, dLocal and Airtel Mobile Money have teamed up to make Google Play payments possible in Kenya.

This collaboration aims to provide millions of Kenyan users with a seamless and localised payment solution, allowing them to purchase apps and digital services without relying on traditional banking methods.

The integration of Airtel Money as a payment option reflects a broader strategy by both dLocal and Google to support digital inclusion in emerging markets.

With Kenya boasting one of the world’s highest mobile money adoption rates, this partnership is set to transform how users interact with global digital platforms.

Bridging the Digital Divide

For years, access to international digital services in Kenya has been limited by traditional payment barriers. Many consumers either lack bank accounts or face hurdles when using debit and credit cards for online transactions.

The introduction of Airtel Money on Google Play addresses these challenges by providing a payment method that aligns with local habits and preferences.

According to Airtel, the mobile money service currently serves over 31.5 million users in Kenya, accounting for approximately 80% of the adult population.

This widespread adoption makes Airtel Money an ideal channel for facilitating digital purchases. By tapping into this existing infrastructure, dLocal and Google are not only expanding their customer base but also empowering users with more accessible financial tools.

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John O’Brien, Chief Revenue Officer at dLocal, emphasised the importance of this milestone: “Giving Kenyan users the ability to use Airtel Money for Google Play purchases aligns with our broader mission of enabling seamless payments in hard-to-reach but high-growth markets.”

Why This Move Matters

Kenya’s mobile-first economy continues to shape how businesses and consumers engage with digital services. Data from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) indicates that Airtel Money’s market share rose from 7.6% to 8.9% in Q4 2024, reaching approximately 3.76 million active users.

As the second-largest mobile money provider in the country, Airtel is positioned to play a significant role in digital financial inclusion.

By incorporating Airtel Money into Google Play, dLocal is removing friction from the user experience. Consumers can now purchase productivity apps, entertainment subscriptions, and gaming upgrades using a payment method that fits their everyday routines.

This shift is not only a win for users but also for app developers who can now monetise their products more effectively in markets where traditional banking infrastructure falls short.

A Strategic Win for Fintech Innovation

The partnership highlights dLocal’s commitment to its “One dLocal” approach, a streamlined payment solution that enables global merchants to operate seamlessly in emerging markets through a single API and platform.

This simplified model reduces the complexities of integrating with diverse payment systems across regions, allowing tech giants like Google to scale quickly while meeting local market demands.

The deal also reflects a growing trend where international tech companies are prioritising localised payment solutions to capture new audiences.

For dLocal, this move follows a series of strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening its presence in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

In March 2025 alone, the company collaborated with Temu to enhance e-commerce payments across 14 emerging markets, joined forces with Belmoney for cross-border remittances, and partnered with Coda to expand payment options for gaming publishers.

“This isn’t just about payments—it’s about empowerment,” O’Brien added. “Together with partners like Google and Airtel, we’re unlocking access to the global digital economy.”

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Shaping the Future of Digital Payments

The integration of Airtel Money on Google Play marks a significant milestone in the evolution of digital payments in Kenya.

It reflects a broader industry shift where global platforms increasingly recognise the importance of local payment ecosystems in driving user adoption and engagement.

As dLocal, Airtel, and Google continue to collaborate, the partnership serves as a blueprint for how fintech innovation can bridge digital divides.

By offering payment methods that resonate with local users, these companies are not only expanding their reach but also promoting greater financial inclusion.