Digital Transformation in Zambia: Yango Partners with Flutterwave for Seamless Food Delivery and Taxi Payments

 

​In a major move to accelerate the transition toward a cashless economy in Southern Africa, global tech giant Yango has officially partnered with Flutterwave, Africa’s leading payments technology company. Announced on February 25, 2026, this strategic collaboration aims to revolutionize the way Zambians pay for everyday services, specifically within the Yango ride-hailing and food delivery ecosystems. By integrating Flutterwave’s robust and secure payment rails into the Yango app, users can now enjoy a frictionless "order and pay" experience, marking a significant milestone in Zambia’s rapidly growing digital commerce landscape.

​Solving the Cash Dilemma in Zambia

​For years, the Zambian transport and food delivery sectors have been heavily reliant on physical cash, which often presents operational risks such as theft, lack of transparency, and reconciliation delays. While mobile money has gained some traction, the integration of bank card payments has remained a challenge due to infrastructure limitations.

​Through this partnership, Yango users can now link their local or international bank cards directly to the app. Transactions are processed via Flutterwave’s trusted infrastructure, ensuring that payments are not only faster but also protected by high-level encryption. This development is particularly beneficial for tourists and expatriates in Lusaka and beyond, who may not have access to local mobile money accounts but carry international cards.

​Impact on Local Businesses and Restaurants

​The Yango-Flutterwave partnership isn't just a win for commuters; it’s a game-changer for the local culinary scene. Yango Food has been expanding its network of restaurant partners across Zambia, and the introduction of reliable digital payments means:

• ​Guaranteed Payouts: Restaurants no longer have to worry about the risks associated with cash-on-delivery.
• ​Streamlined Accounting: Digital receipts provided through Flutterwave’s system make it easier for small business owners to track their daily revenue.
• ​Faster Fulfillment: With payments confirmed instantly at the point of order, delivery partners can move more efficiently without waiting for cash exchanges at the doorstep.

​Leadership Perspectives: Driving Financial Inclusion

​Speaking on the partnership, Kabanda Chewe, the Country Head for Yango Zambia, emphasized that the move is an essential step toward building a "connected service ecosystem."

​“Partnering with Flutterwave allows us to strengthen our digital payment capabilities while supporting Zambia’s transition toward a more digitally enabled economy,” Chewe noted.

​Echoing this sentiment, Iyembi Nkanza, Flutterwave’s Country Head in Zambia, highlighted the role of innovation in driving financial inclusion. He stated that the goal is to "empower Zambians with secure, convenient payment options that remove friction from everyday transactions." This alignment between a global ride-hailing giant and a pan-African fintech leader sets a high standard for service delivery in the region.

​Looking Ahead: A Cashless Zambia by 2027?

​The timing of this partnership coincides with Zambia’s national goals for financial inclusion and the modernization of its digital infrastructure. As competitors like Bolt and Uber also increase their fintech investments, Yango’s collaboration with Flutterwave positions it as a frontrunner in the race for market share.

​By late 2026, industry experts expect Yango to roll out further localized features, potentially including loyalty rewards for digital payers and deeper integrations with local banking apps. For now, the integration of trusted card payments serves as the bedrock for a more secure, efficient, and modern Zambia.

​Conclusion: A New Era of Convenience

​The Yango-Flutterwave partnership represents more than just a new way to pay for a ride or a meal; it represents a shift in the cultural fabric of Zambian commerce. As more citizens embrace the security and ease of digital transactions, the reliance on cash will continue to dwindle, giving way to a more transparent and vibrant digital economy. For the everyday user in Lusaka, the message is simple: you can now leave your wallet at home and still get where you need to go—with a hot meal waiting on the other side.