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President Julius Maada Bio has been presented with the first Flot Ultra Black Card, a new Visa card developed through a partnership between the Sierra Leonean financial technology firm Flot and Zenith Bank Sierra Leone. The presentation of card number 001 took place at State House in Freetown on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
The Flot platform, operated by Open Hubb (SL) Limited, is designed to integrate financial services, international travel booking, and commercial transactions. According to the company, the card is intended to provide a secure alternative to carrying physical cash, allowing users to make payments at any location where Visa cards are accepted. The initiative aims to reduce the demand for foreign currency disbursement from commercial banks and the government for travelers.
During the presentation, company representatives highlighted the platform’s travel services, which allow users to search, book, and pay for international flights. Flot officials stated that the service could significantly reduce travel costs for business travelers, citing an example of a flight to China that could be accessed for approximately 1,600 dollars, compared to previous market rates of 2,800 dollars.
President Bio expressed support for the initiative, noting that improved travel options and financial technology could enhance the competitiveness of Freetown International Airport. He stated that the ability for citizens to conduct cashless transactions and access affordable travel options aligns with the government’s vision for the country’s global integration.
David Kpakima, Chief Executive Officer of Open Banking Hub, the parent company of Flot, described the launch as a step toward providing Sierra Leoneans with greater access to international financial systems. The platform is expected to eventually connect mobile money services, bank accounts, and merchant payment systems to facilitate cross-border transactions.
Further details regarding the official public launch of the platform are expected to be announced at a later date.
Article and image source: thecalabashnewspaper.com
