By Urban Shihemi, August 7, 2025
Premier Bank has launched two groundbreaking digital innovations ,Premier Connect, a Shari’ah-compliant digital omni-channel banking platform, and Premier Tap, the country’s first wearable payment solution developed in partnership with MasterCard.
The twin launch marks a significant leap in Premier Bank’s mission to offer progressive, ethical, and customer-first digital banking solutions that meet the evolving needs of Kenya’s modern, mobile-first consumer base.
“This launch reflects our brand promise of ‘New Beginnings’, empowering customers with choice, flexibility, and control,” said Osman Dualle, CEO of Premier Bank. “Through our partnership with MasterCard, we’re not just offering technology. We’re delivering convenience, accessibility, and a bold step forward for financial inclusion in Kenya.”
Premier Connect is a fully integrated omni-channel digital platform designed to provide seamless, 24/7 banking access through a mobile-first experience. Key features include:
100% remote account opening for retail customers, Real-time payment options (including IFT, PesaLink, RTGS, SWIFT, and BillPay) ,Advanced card control, treasury access, and foreign exchange solutions, Multi-device synchronization for consistent and secure access
Notably, Premier Connect positions Premier Bank as Kenya’s first Shari’ah-compliant digital bank, offering faith-driven consumers the convenience of modern banking in line with Islamic financial principles.
In partnership with MasterCard, Premier Bank unveiled Premier Tap, a cutting-edge, wearable payment solution aimed at revolutionizing the way consumers transact. The contactless payment innovation leverages NFC-enabled devices including smartwatches, rings, key fobs, and even phone cases to make quick, cashless payments with maximum security. Backed by MasterCard’s world-class technology, Premier Tap uses tokenization and encryption to safeguard every transaction.
“At MasterCard, we are committed to driving financial inclusion and providing innovative payment solutions that meet the changing needs of consumers,” said Shehryar Ali, Senior Vice President and Country Manager for East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands at MasterCard. “Premier Tap is a testament to our shared vision of making digital payments accessible, stylish, and secure.”
The launch of Premier Tap marks the first of its kind in Kenya, aligning with the fast-paced lifestyles of digitally savvy urban youth, and offering a secure alternative to cash or physical cards.
Premier Tap is now available at all Premier Bank branches and online through My Premier App.