Tanzanian appointed Visa’s new boss, vows accelerating digital payments

DAR ES SALAAM: VISA’s newly appointed Country Manager, Victor Makere, has pledged to lead the expansion of digital payments across Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, and Rwanda.

“I am excited to join Visa and play a key role in accelerating the growth of digital payments across Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, and Rwanda. Visa’s commitment to financial innovation and inclusion aligns perfectly with my vision for transforming the payments landscape,” Mr Makere said in a statement issued yesterday.

“I look forward to collaborating with our clients, partners, and stakeholders to deliver cutting-edge, secure, and seamless payment solutions that drive economic growth and empower businesses and consumers across the region,” he added.

According to the statement, Mr Makere brings extensive experience in the digital payments sector, with a strong background in mobile financial services, strategic partnerships, and transformative payment solutions.

Prior to joining Visa, he served as Head of Merchant Payments at Airtel Money Tanzania, where he steered the strategic direction for mobile and merchant payment solutions.

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He has also held senior roles at CRDB Bank and Standard Chartered Bank Tanzania, leading digital banking transformations and merchant acquiring strategies.

During his time at CRDB, Mr Makere played a key role in industry-wide digital innovation. Representing banks through the Tanzania Bankers Association (TBA), he championed the adoption of innovative payment solutions and advanced interoperability across networks and financial institutions—significantly enhancing Tanzania’s digital payments ecosystem.

Mr Chad Pollock, Visa’s Vice President and General Manager for East Africa, welcomed Makere’s appointment, stating he will be responsible for driving Visa’s strategic growth, strengthening client relationships, and expanding digital payment solutions across the four countries.

“He will manage a diverse client portfolio, aiming to increase Visa’s strategic value and revenue—both for our clients and for Visa itself. He will also lead key projects, including the rollout of new products and services,” said Mr Pollock.

“We are delighted to welcome Victor to the Visa East Africa leadership team. With his proven track record in digital financial services, merchant acquiring, and strategic business development, we look forward to his contributions toward enhancing financial inclusion and expanding digital commerce in the region. His leadership will be invaluable as we continue building a resilient and inclusive digital payments ecosystem across East Africa,” he added.