United Bank for Africa (UBA) has upgraded its AI chatbot, LEO, becoming the first to support cross-border payments.
LEO now allows users to send and receive money instantly across African countries using local currencies.
UBA’s new service uses the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), developed in partnership with Afrexim Bank.
It is designed to simplify transactions for individuals, traders, and corporates in regions where PAPSS is approved by central banks.
“This is not just a banking upgrade; it is a bold leap into the future of African finance,” said UBA CEO Oliver Alawuba.
He described the move as a major step toward digital innovation and Pan-African integration.
Payments through LEO using PAPSS are processed in seconds.
The service offers lower fees, no charges for beneficiaries, and is accessible through UBA’s self-service channels.
Group Head of Retail and Digital Banking, Shamsideen Fasola, called the upgrade “a transformative step in Africa’s financial services landscape.”
“With LEO now fully integrated with PAPSS infrastructure, UBA customers can send and receive money across African borders in their local currencies within seconds,” he said.
“We’re not just simplifying transactions – we’re fostering intra-African trade.”
The feature also adds enhanced security, privacy, and remittance options, making it ideal for formal and informal market participants.
This innovation supports the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), helping to reduce trade barriers and improve financial inclusion.
With operations in 20 African countries and global offices in the UK, U.S., France, and UAE, UBA serves over 45 million customers.
