Mastercard opens cyber hub for Africa

The centre will initially operate as a virtual hub, delivered through connected digital platforms. For its first year, Mastercard plans to provide cyber-risk assessments for up to 50 organisations, as well as an Africa-focused threat intelligence feed. This will draw in particular on Recorded Future, the US threat intelligence specialist acquired by Mastercard in late 2024.

The group is positioning the initiative against a backdrop of growing cyber exposure across the continent. According to figures cited by Mastercard, South Africa is the most targeted African market, accounting for nearly 29% of ransomware attacks and 40% of phishing incidents recorded across the continent. Reporting levels remain low, however, with only around 35% of incidents said to be reported.

Beyond cyber cooperation, the launch also reflects Mastercard’s broader strategic shift. The group is no longer positioning itself solely as a payments player, but increasingly as a provider of security, intelligence and digital trust services. This move is particularly strategic as Africa’s digital economy could reach $1.5 trillion by 2030.