Mastercard and Banco Sol strengthen collaboration to drive SME growth in Angola
May 19, 2026 | Luanda, Angola
Luanda, Angola, 19 May 2026: Mastercard and Banco Sol are strengthening their collaboration with the introduction of new innovative financial products tailored to support underserved small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and the broader consumer market in Angola. Launching in April 2026, these offerings aim to deliver accessible payment solutions, promote financial literacy among businesses and consumers, and strengthen SMEs to achieve sustainable growth and long-term success.
The new financial products include two specialized prepaid cards: one designed specifically for SMEs and the other tailored for Banco Sol customers. These cards feature enhanced value propositions and benefits, allowing cardholders to enjoy the advantages of Mastercard prepaid solutions.
According to data released by the National Statistics Institute of Angola, Angola GDP growth reached 5.7% year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2025, which marks one of the strongest quarterly performances in recent years. Non-oil production contributed positively, supported by trade, fisheries, construction, and selected manufacturing segments which recorded measurable gains. This figure highlights the country’s ongoing efforts toward economic diversification, positioning it as a critical hub for innovative financial services.
This collaboration strategically leverages Mastercard's dedication to fostering financial inclusion through innovative payment solutions and Banco Sol's commitment to strengthening small businesses in underserved communities. They aim to create a more inclusive financial ecosystem, supporting entrepreneurship and sustainable development across Angola.
“At Mastercard, we believe that when small business wins, everyone wins. Our partnership with Banco Sol underscores this belief with our shared commitment to enhancing SMEs through innovation and trusted collaborations. Investing in Angola is critical to fostering local economic growth and creating opportunities for businesses to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. Together, we are equipping SMEs with the tools and networks they need to ensure that every business, regardless of size, can achieve its full potential,” said Gabriel Swanepoel, Division President for Africa at Mastercard.
“By launching the new financial products, we aim to bridge gaps in financial inclusion, ensuring more businesses and individuals can participate in and contribute to the nation’s economic growth. This is vital in Angola, as it enables underserved sectors to access essential resources, driving sustainable development and creating opportunities for prosperity across the region,” said Osvaldo Salvador Lemos Macaia, CEO at Banco Sol.
As Angola continues to diversify its economy and drive entrepreneurship, this collaboration reiterates the transformative power of partnerships in driving meaningful change. With the launch of these tailored financial products, Mastercard and Banco Sol are not just enhancing financial access, they are enabling businesses and individuals to unlock their full potential and contribute to the nation’s evolving economic landscape.
About Mastercard
Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.
