Interswitch launches Tumatap, a contactless payment solution for merchants and customers in Kenya

Interswitch, a payments and digital commerce firm, has partnered with Elie Technologies, trading as Tuma, to provide Tumatap, a cutting-edge contactless payment solution for merchants and customers in Kenya.

Tumatap enables Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to accept contactless payments on any android, iOS smartphone, or feature phone, effectively transforming these devices into powerful point-of-sale (POS) systems without the need for additional hardware.

According to Peter Kawumi, Regional Managing Director, Interswitch East Africa Limited,”This partnership allows us to leverage each other’s technological and operational expertise to deliver an enhanced payment experience for business owners and customers. At Interswitch, we are dedicated to building a more financially inclusive ecosystem, and this collaboration reinforces that commitment. Together, we are reshaping the payment landscape in the market.”

Tumatap allows consumers to simply tap their card or device on a merchant’s smartphone for faster, more convenient checkouts. By leveraging local switching, Tumatap provides a cost-effective alternative to international processing solutions. The real-time data collected from transactions will provide valuable insights, enabling merchants to monitor customer behaviour and optimize their business performance. This is particularly crucial for MSMEs, as it offers an affordable and efficient way to accept digital payments, reduce transaction costs, and enhance operational efficiencies.

Interswitch, which operates under the regulatory oversight of the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) and complies with the National Payment Systems Act, 2013 and the National Payments Systems Regulations, 2014, was recently granted approval to switch and process card transactions for Tumatap merchants.

This collaboration leverages Elie Tech’s innovative soft POS technology and Interswitch’s extensive expertise in switching and processing, and enhanced fraud protection. Together, we offer real-time transaction processing, ensuring a seamless and secure payment experience for merchants and customers across Kenya.

The partnership between Interswitch and Elie Tech will cater to a diverse range of sectors, including Hotels, Restaurants and Cafeterias (HORECO), Bars and Lounges, Wines and Spirits outlets, Cosmetics outlets and Spas, Pharmaceutical Shops, and Small-scale retail kiosks and stores. This extensive reach ensures that businesses of all sizes can benefit from the innovative payment solutions provided by Interswitch and Elie Tech.

Wesley Masinde, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Tuma Inc, said “Our partnership with Interswitch is a game-changer for MSMEs in Kenya. By combining our innovative contactless merchant acquiring soft POS technology with Interswitch’s robust switching and card processing capabilities, we are equipping merchants with a powerful tool to enhance their payment processes and grow their businesses. We are excited about the potential of this collaboration to drive financial inclusion and empower small businesses across the country.”