06 March 2019
Developers and programmers in Uganda are being given free access to MTN’s mobile money proprietary software platform.
The company hopes the move will spur innovation in the developer community around the country.
Third party developers will be able to access MTN’s mobile money API (access programming interface) via http://MoMoDeveloper.MTN.com/.
The operator says this replaces the previous system where developers had to physically submit paperwork to MTN Uganda and then go through a lengthy standard integration process.
The company adds that its online system provides an option where developers can test their products before going live by using a free sandbox that is available on the website.
Elsa Muzzolini, GM of mobile financial services at MTN Uganda, says: “Our expectations are that this decision will enable innovators to monetise their products, ensure that there is fast turnaround of innovations to get to market, and improve the value created for innovators and entrepreneurs. Why not a Ugandan Ebay or Amazon in the next few months?”
In partnership with several technology and innovation hubs around the country, MTN Uganda is facilitating the training of developers on how to use the platform.
MTN Mobile Money is said to be used by 10 million customers in Uganda, making it the country’s most popular mobile money platform.
According to the Consultative Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP), open APIs have the potential to further drive financial inclusion, which is already being accelerated by the usage of mobile money.
In January 2018, MTN Uganda and CGAP formed a partnership aimed at driving customer growth and activity by facilitating a wider range of mobile wallet applications for all customers through open APIs.
MTN Uganda has also announced the launch of a UGX1bn (USD270,000) fund that will be accessed by local technology startups.
MTN Uganda CEO Wim Vanhelleputte says: “I encourage as many startups as possible to participate in the several innovation challenges we shall be hosting in order to access funding from the MTN Startup Fund.”
Courtesy of the MTN Foundation, MTN Uganda has also unveiled a USD81,000 high speed internet connectivity package as part of MTN’s Innovation Village programme.
The package includes free internet connectivity for use by young developers and innovators.
