Top online payment gateways in Rwanda

As Rwanda's digital economy grows, businesses need reliable online payment solutions to accept transactions from customers. Whether you run an e-commerce store, a subscription service, or a marketplace, enabling seamless payments can boost sales and customer trust.

This guide explores the best ways to accept online payments in Rwanda, comparing top payment gateways like Elemipay, as well as other local and international options.

Understanding Online Payments in Rwanda

Rwanda’s online payment ecosystem relies mainly on mobile money, bank cards, and digital wallets. Mobile money services like MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money dominate due to high mobile penetration, while Visa and Mastercard enable card transactions for international customers.

To accept payments, businesses need to integrate with a payment gateway a service that processes transactions securely and ensures funds reach their accounts.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Payment Gateway

• Transaction Fees: Compare processing fees for mobile money, card payments, and bank transfers.

• Integration Options: Ensure the gateway supports APIs, payment links, and other easy integration methods.

• Settlement Speed: Some providers offer instant settlements, while others take a few business days.

• Security and Compliance: PCI-DSS certification and fraud protection are crucial for safe transactions.

• Customer Experience: A smooth and fast checkout process enhances customer trust.

Best Payment Gateways for Rwandan Businesses

Here are the top payment gateways in Rwanda, starting with the best options for businesses:

1. Elemipay (Best for Africa-wide payments)

Elemipay offers a single API that allows businesses to collect payments via MTN Mobile Money, Airtel Money, Visa, Mastercard, and bank transfers in Rwanda and Other African countries. It also enables payouts, making it ideal for businesses that need to disburse funds, such as e-commerce platforms and fintech companies.

Key Features:

• Supports multiple African markets

• API for seamless integration

• Secure and PCI-DSS compliant

• Settlements in bank accounts or USDT wallets

• Flexible pricing (1.5% - 6% per transaction)

How to Get Started:

• Sign up on Elemipay

• Complete business verification

• Integrate the API or use payment links

• Start accepting payments

---

GET STARTED WITH ELEMI

Click Me

---

2. DusuPay (Best for international businesses operating in Rwanda)

DusuPay enables businesses in Rwanda to accept payments from across Africa and beyond, supporting mobile money, bank cards, and crypto payments.

Key Features:

• Supports multiple currencies

• Easy integration with websites & mobile apps

• Secure transactions with fraud protection

• Instant mobile money settlements

How to Get Started:

• Create an account on DusuPay

• Link your business and bank accounts

• Generate payment links or integrate the API

• Start accepting payments

3. Flutterwave & Paystack (Best for online stores & global payments)

These platforms support card payments, mobile money, and bank transfers, making them ideal for e-commerce stores. However, they may charge higher fees for international transactions.

4. PesaPal (Best for businesses needing flexible payment options)

PesaPal is a widely used payment solution in East Africa, offering support for mobile money, card payments, and bank transfers. It integrates well with online stores, ticketing platforms, and service-based businesses.

Key Features:

✅ Supports Visa, Mastercard, and mobile money

✅ Multiple integration options (API, checkout pages, POS systems)

✅ Secure transactions with fraud protection

✅ Customizable payment links

How to Get Started:

• Sign up on PesaPal

• Complete business verification

• Integrate with your website or use payment links

• Start accepting payments

Steps to Accept Online Payments in Rwanda

Here’s how you can start accepting payments in Rwanda:

Step 1: Choose the Right Payment Gateway

Consider factors like fees, transaction speed, and supported payment methods. Elemipay is the top choices for businesses that need multi-channel payment solutions.

Step 2: Set Up Your Business Account

Sign up on your chosen payment platform and complete business verification (business registration documents, tax details, and bank info may be required).

Step 3: Integrate Payments

Most gateways offer multiple options:

• API integration (for websites, mobile apps, and software solutions)

• Payment links (for social media and invoicing)

• QR codes (for in-person transactions)

Step 4: Test & Go Live

Once your integration is complete, run test transactions to ensure everything works smoothly. After that, you’re ready to accept payments.

4. Payment Gateway Fees Comparison

Payment Gateway	Mobile Money Fees	Card Payment Fees	Payouts
Elemipay	1.5% - 6%	Varies	Yes
DusuPay	2% - 5%	3% - 5%	Yes
Flutterwave	1.4% - 3.5%	3.9% (international)	Yes
Paystack	1.9% (local)	3.9% (international)	Yes
PesaPal	Varies	Varies	Yes

Ensuring Security & Compliance

To protect your business and customers, follow these security best practices:

• Use PCI-DSS certified payment gateways (like Elemipay and DusuPay)

• Enable two-factor authentication for sensitive transactions

• Educate customers on fraud prevention (e.g., not sharing OTPs)

• Comply with local regulations (Bank of Rwanda guidelines)

• Monitor transactions for fraud detection (use AI-powered fraud detection tools)

Regulatory Requirements for Online Payments in Rwanda

The National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) regulates all financial transactions, and businesses must comply with:

• KYC (Know Your Customer) requirements for business verification

• AML (Anti-Money Laundering) compliance to prevent fraudulent transactions

• Consumer protection laws ensuring secure online transactions

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Payment Solution for Your Business

To successfully accept online payments in Rwanda:

• For multi-country businesses: Choose Elemipay

• For international payments: Use DusuPay

• For e-commerce: Consider Flutterwave or Paystack

• For businesses needing flexible options: Use PesaPal

By selecting the right payment gateway, ensuring compliance, and optimizing security, you can create a seamless payment experience for your customers.

Want to start accepting payments today? Sign up with Elemipay and take your business online!