Bridging the Gap: Nomba Raises $3 Million to Expand Cross-Border Payment Infrastructure

Nigerian fintech company Nomba has secured a $3 million debt facility from CardinalStone Finance Company Limited, signaling confidence in its mission to connect African businesses with global markets. This funding will specifically target the growing trade corridor between Central Africa (particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo) and Asia.

The timing aligns perfectly with the booming commercial relationship between China and the DRC, which reached $26.7 billion in 2025 alone—with China importing $21.6 billion from the DRC. Nomba aims to capitalize on this demand by providing reliable payment solutions that address currency access and settlement challenges.

“This facility gives us more room to move – more liquidity, more corridors, faster settlement,” stated Yinka Adewale, CEO of Nomba. “It’s a strong signal of confidence in what we’re building for the next generation of African businesses.” The company plans to expand its operations across Africa and strengthen payment links with Asia.

From AI Chatbot to Cross-Border Payments Leader

Nomba began as Kudi.AI, an AI chatbot assisting users with online payments in 2017. Recognizing a larger opportunity, the company evolved into a full-fledged provider of banking and payment services for businesses—generating revenue through transaction fees.

In 2023, Nomba raised $30 million in pre-Series B funding, reaching a valuation exceeding $150 million. This latest investment will further support its expansion into new markets and product offerings.

Addressing Critical Trade Needs

The DRC represents a strategic entry point for Nomba’s Central African expansion—initially focusing on remittances from key corridors like China and Dubai before broadening its services.

With its current offering, businesses in the DRC can now:

• Collect payments online or via POS terminals
• Accept various payment methods (cards, mobile money)
• Pay suppliers in Asia with local currency

“This transaction reflects our confidence in the growth opportunity presented by cross-border payments,” added Ayoola Adeola of CardinalStone Finance. “Nomba is uniquely positioned to connect African businesses to global markets.”

With over $480 million processed monthly across its DRC operations, Nomba plans to raise additional funding ($20-$50 million) in stages to support continued growth and reach its goal of processing $1 billion in monthly payments.