Bamako, Mali | August 15, 2025: The Malian Solidarity Bank (BMS S.A.), a leading bank in Mali, has partnered with SATGURU Travel to launch an innovative solution for travelers: the co-branded BARAKA GIM-Mastercard prepaid cards BMS/SATGURU, named SATGURU Traveler CLASSIC and SATGURU Traveler PLATINUM respectively. These cards represent a major milestone for financial services in the region, offering travelers in Mali and beyond a secure, seamless, and accessible way to make payments with ease.
This collaboration brings together the expertise of Mastercard, GIM-UEMOA, BMS S.A., and SATGURU Travel to meet the evolving needs of today’s constantly moving consumers. The co-branded prepaid cards, available at SATGURU Travel agencies, are designed to provide individuals with more financial autonomy while offering a travel experience focused on simplicity and reliability.
Created to offer great flexibility to customers, the cards combine the latest payment technologies with exclusive travel-related benefits, making them essential tools for travelers who value convenience, security, and control over their finances. With these cards, users can make secure payments with confidence, both locally and internationally, and enjoy the freedom to make online purchases, withdraw cash from ATMs worldwide, and easily conduct card-to-card transactions. Designed to meet the transactional needs of travelers, these prepaid cards allow them to manage their funds through online account access and enjoy a host of privileges related to SATGURU Travel’s renowned travel services. The Platinum version of the card provides access to premium benefits, including tailored offers for frequent travelers.
Mohamed Benomar, Regional Director for Northwest Africa at Mastercard, stated: “The value of financial inclusion lies in its ability to create opportunities for individuals and businesses. These cards embody our collective goal of providing secure, convenient, and transformative solutions that enable travelers to move easily beyond borders and connect to a world of possibilities.”
The electronic money sector within the UEMOA has experienced explosive growth, with a 288% increase in transaction value between 2021 and 2023. This new initiative marks a significant step in BMS S.A.’s commitment to providing innovative, customer-centric solutions that promote financial inclusion and meet the real needs of populations in Mali and the UEMOA region. By providing an affordable, secure, and digitally advanced payment tool, BMS S.A. helps bridge the digital divide and enables customers to navigate confidently through the complexities of modern-day travel.
Dr. LANFIA KOITA, Managing Director of BMS S.A., said: “At BMS S.A., we are committed to providing world-class financial tools that make our customers’ lives easier. With the SATGURU Traveler Classic and Platinum BMS Baraka cards, we are taking bold steps to innovate, inspire, and expand access to financial services across Mali and beyond. In collaboration with Mastercard and SATGURU, we empower our customers to leverage the opportunities of the digital economy.”
Serges Adingni, Deputy Managing Director of GIM-UEMOA, stated: “We are proud to be the main member holding the Mastercard issuing license, enabling financial institutions in the UEMOA region to issue and accept Mastercard products. This partnership with BMS S.A., SATGURU Travel, and Mastercard underscores our commitment to expanding financial accessibility and providing innovative and secure payment tools that meet the evolving needs of citizens in our region. These cards represent a significant step towards financial inclusion, mobility, and convenience for all.”
The launch of these cards reflects a broader commitment to digital transformation and financial empowerment, a vision shared by all partners involved. By offering a payment tool that prioritizes accessibility, innovation, and inclusivity, this collaboration not only redefines how travelers interact with their finances, but also paves the way for a more connected and inclusive future.
