Indian Fintech Firm Viona Plans Digital Payments Expansion into Africa

Indian fintech technology service provider Viona Fintech, which is certified by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), is planning to expand its digital payment technology into African markets. The company has initiated efforts to introduce its Viona Tap and Pay platform in Zimbabwe and is reportedly in discussions with the Zimbabwean government. The platform uses near-field communication (NFC)-based SoftPOS technology to turn compatible Android smartphones into contactless payment terminals, potentially allowing small and medium-sized businesses to accept digital payments without purchasing dedicated point-of-sale machines.

Viona’s expansion plans come as Zimbabwe explores the possibility of introducing India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) through discussions involving the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe and NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL). The company is examining partnerships with local acquiring banks, payment service providers and merchant networks. According to the AfricaNenda State of Inclusive Instant Payment Systems in Africa 2025 report cited in the supplied information, African instant payment systems processed approximately 64 billion transactions worth $2 trillion in 2024. Viona plans to launch its commercial services in India and selected African markets after completing the required payment-network certifications and obtaining regulatory approvals.