In Benin, Kkiapay has established itself as a key electronic payment solution. Designed by the Beninese fintech OpenSi to simplify and secure transactions, this instant payment tool meets the needs of both SMEs and individuals.
Bergedor HADJIHOU
Launched in 2019, Kkiapay is the result of an ambition to modernize electronic payments in a context where bank card usage remains marginal. « The idea was to enable Beninese citizens to complete their administrative procedures online while having the option to pay directly, even without a bank account, » explains Olabissi Adjovi, Kkiapay’s Operations Director. Within a few years, this payment system has become a leader among payment aggregators in Benin. The solution allows businesses to integrate a user-friendly payment interface into their online platforms. Customers can complete transactions with a single click via mobile money or other digital payment methods.
Kkiapay’s solutions are tailored to all needs. In addition to online payments, the fintech provides electronic payment terminals for physical points of sale. This flexibility covers a wide range of needs, from Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and street vendors to large corporations. According to figures published on the fintech’s official website, over 13,000 merchants regularly use the solution, with a monthly transaction volume exceeding 100,000. Kkiapay is also present in several countries in the sub-region, including Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Senegal, and Niger.
In 2024, the company launched the Kkiapay Mobile App to simplify payments for entrepreneurs and individuals. Available on Android and iOS, it allows users to receive payments within seconds, regardless of their geographic location. This solution is particularly suited for informal merchants, facilitating transactions between different West African countries. « Our CEO, Gilles Kounou, envisions an international and fully pan-African reach, » says Olabissi Adjovi. This ambition is reflected in the integration of various mobile money operators in the sub-region, such as Orange Money and Wave. Thus, a merchant in Cotonou can receive payments from a customer in Dakar or Abidjan, strengthening intra-African trade.
Kkiapay’s vision extends beyond borders, with a strategy focused on creating innovative services that adapt to different markets’ needs. The goal is clear: to contribute to the continent’s digital transformation while addressing challenges related to financial inclusion.
Preventing Fraud
In a context where cybercrime threatens online transactions, Kkiapay places a strong emphasis on service security. Certified PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard – a standard that applies to any organization that accepts, processes, stores, or transmits credit card data), the fintech enforces strict procedures to verify merchant identities and prevent fraud. « We closely monitor merchants using bank cards to minimize risks. Their funds are only transferred to bank accounts to ensure better traceability, » says the Operations Director.
This commitment to transaction security builds user trust. Testimonials reinforce Kkiapay’s credibility. Charbel Zinsou, speaking on CAPPFM radio, praised it as a « user-friendly and 100% Beninese » solution. Junior Gantin, CEO of Africreators, highlighted its impact on his company’s conversion rates, while Aminath Kpadonou, Quality Manager at Edi Sessi, appreciated its security and ease of use.
Éric Agondjihossou, CEO of My Addictive, emphasized its « cross-platform availability and easy integration, » while expressing pride in using a Beninese-branded solution.
Kkiapay also ensures that merchant activities comply with ethical and legal standards, immediately blocking suspicious accounts until further clarification.
Despite a shift towards the private sector, Kkiapay maintains partnerships with the Beninese government. In the past, the solution was used for motor vehicle tax payments and other public services. With a strategy focused on innovation, the fintech plans to add new features to its mobile app and expand its presence in Africa.
By combining simplicity, security, and accessibility, Kkiapay is redefining electronic payment standards in West Africa and inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs.
