Africhange has reached two remarkable milestones in its mission to empower Africans living abroad. The fast-growing fintech company has partnered with Griffin, a UK-licensed bank, to launch fully functional Africhange UK bank accounts for customers in the United Kingdom, while also being officially recognized by the Bank of Canada as one of the country’s first registered Payment Service Providers (PSPs).
With these two accomplishments, Africhange has evolved from a remittance platform to a reliable international financial partner. Its new collaboration with Griffin directly tackles a long-standing issue that African immigrants in the UK have encountered: the difficulties of obtaining bank accounts that are fully regulated and authorized. Africhange users can now open GBP bank accounts with their own distinct sort codes and account numbers thanks to this partnership, giving them access to actual banking features instead of transient virtual wallets.
Users can send money via the UK’s Faster Payments network, securely store GBP balances, and get direct payments using these new accounts. The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) will cover eligible deposits, and linked savings features in the accounts enable customers to grow and manage their money securely.
Africhange’s CEO, David Ajala, said the development reflects the company’s deep understanding of its community’s financial struggles. “At Africhange, we don’t just understand the immigrant journey—we’ve lived it,” he said. “We’re moving beyond remittances to become a true financial partner, giving our community a trusted place to hold their balance, manage their UK finances, and earn Afripoints, all from one platform.”
Griffin’s CEO, David Jarvis, praised the partnership for its inclusive mission. “Too many immigrants face unnecessary friction in accessing basic bank accounts,” he noted. “We’re proud to be working with Africhange to give people the financial tools they need to live and work freely in the UK.”
Looking ahead, Africhange plans to introduce a “Send Now, Pay Later” feature in 2026, allowing users to send money instantly and settle payments later. The company also revealed plans for a debit card that will offer seamless access to everyday spending and withdrawals across the UK and beyond.
Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, Africhange has earned a distinguished position as one of the first 300 organizations to completely register under Canada’s Retail Payment Activities Act. On October 21, 2025, the Bank of Canada formally added Africhange to its first Payment Service Provider Registry. This milestone signifies a new phase in the company’s dedication to compliance and openness.
To achieve this feat, Africhange underwent a rigorous evaluation that included a national security review coordinated by Canada’s Department of Finance. The company also implemented advanced operational risk management frameworks and strict procedures for protecting customer funds.
“This registration validates our unwavering commitment to regulatory compliance, operational excellence, and the highest standards of consumer protection,” Ajala said. “It strengthens the trust our customers place in us every day.”
Tega Gabriel, Head of Growth at Africhange, added that the recognition demonstrates how innovation and regulation can coexist. “We’re proud to be part of a framework that fosters innovation while safeguarding consumers. This isn’t just a milestone for Africhange—it’s a win for all Canadians who rely on modern payment solutions,” he said.
Africhange is reinventing what it means to serve Africans overseas by combining accessibility, innovation, and trust into a single seamless banking experience with the introduction of Africhange UK bank accounts and the company’s new regulatory recognition in Canada.
