Visa has announced the appointment of Anne Kinuthia-Otieno as its new Vice President and Head of East Africa, effective August 4, 2026. She will oversee the company’s commercial operations across seven East African countries.
Expanding Digital Payments in East Africa
In her new role, Kinuthia-Otieno will focus on growing Visa’s digital payment solutions, forging partnerships with financial institutions and governments, and promoting financial inclusion throughout the region.
Proven Leadership in Mobile Money
Kinuthia-Otieno brings over 20 years of experience in banking, telecommunications, and digital financial services. Before joining Visa, she served as Airtel Money Kenya’s CEO from September 2021 to March 2026. Under her leadership, Airtel Money increased its share of active mobile money subscriptions in Kenya from 3.1% to 10.9%, according to the Communications Authority of Kenya.
Her tenure also saw the expansion of Airtel Money’s merchant and agent networks, enhanced banking partnerships, and upgrades to its mobile money infrastructure.
Industry Recognition
Michael Berner, Visa’s Senior Vice President and Regional Managing Director for Southern and Eastern Africa, welcomed the appointment, highlighting Kinuthia-Otieno’s deep regional knowledge and dedication to financial inclusion as key assets for Visa’s growth.
"Her leadership comes at a pivotal time for East Africa’s digital economy," Berner said.
Looking Ahead
Kinuthia-Otieno described East Africa as a vibrant and innovative payments market with significant opportunities for advancing digital commerce and financial inclusion. She expressed eagerness to collaborate with Visa’s clients and partners to drive growth and innovation across the region.
Her departure from Airtel Money coincides with Airtel Africa’s plans to list its mobile money business on the London Stock Exchange later this year. Bonke Michael has been appointed acting managing director at Airtel Money to oversee this transition.
