Africa’s global financial institution, United Bank for Africa (UBA), has been named winner of the African category at the 2026 Banker Technology Awards, in recognition of its advancements in artificial intelligence, digital payments, and cross-border banking innovation.
The award organisers, The Banker, recognised UBA for its strong digital transformation strategy across more than 20 African countries, highlighting its use of AI-driven tools, e-business solutions, and seamless payment systems to improve customer experience and financial inclusion.
UBA’s entry was particularly noted for integrating its AI chatbot, Leo, with the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), enabling customers to carry out cross-border transfers in local currencies through a conversational digital interface. The innovation is aimed at reducing the cost, delay, and complexity traditionally associated with intra-African transactions.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, UBA’s Executive Director Designate, Digital Banking, Emmanuel Lamptey, said the bank is committed to building a fully digitised financial ecosystem across Africa.
He explained that the Leo platform was developed to eliminate friction in cross-border payments while allowing customers to interact with banking services in a simple, chat-based format.
Alongside the award recognition, UBA has also launched an upgraded version of its RedApp mobile banking platform. The refreshed app features improved speed, enhanced navigation, and a more intuitive user experience designed to support everyday banking needs across its markets.
UBA’s Group Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, said the upgrade reflects the bank’s ongoing commitment to improving digital customer experience, noting that the new platform allows users to manage accounts, make transfers, and access services more efficiently.
Customers can download the upgraded RedApp here: UBA RedApp Download
United Bank for Africa operates in over 20 African countries as well as the United Kingdom, United States, France, and the United Arab Emirates, serving more than 45 million customers and employing over 25,000 staff globally.
More information about the bank is available at UBA Group.
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