Not long ago, sending money from an MTN wallet to a friend on another network meant finding an agent, cashing out, and paying again at the other end. Today it takes a few seconds from your phone. The system that made this possible is called mobile money interoperability, and it is one of the reasons Ghana is often cited as a leader in digital payments in Africa.

What interoperability means

Interoperability means different payment systems can talk to each other. In Ghana, it lets you:

  • Send money between wallets on different networks, for example MTN MoMo to Telecel Cash or AT Money.
  • Move money from your wallet to a bank account, and from a bank account to a wallet.
  • Send from a wallet to an e-zwich card.

Before interoperability, you usually needed a third-party payment company to move money between networks. Now the networks and banks are connected through a central switch.

Who runs it

The service is run by GhIPSS, the Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlement Systems, a subsidiary of the Bank of Ghana. GhIPSS also runs other national payment systems that banks use to move money between each other.

Mobile money interoperability launched on 10 May 2018, with a second phase following later that year. GhIPSS reported about 136,000 transfers worth around GH₵12.5 million in the first month alone, and 2.2 million transactions by the end of 2018. Usage has grown enormously since.

How to use it

You do not need a new app or account. According to GhIPSS, you use your normal mobile money short code or app:

  1. Dial your wallet’s usual short code (for example *170# for MTN MoMo) or open the app.
  2. Look for the option to send to other networks or to a bank account.
  3. Choose the receiving network or bank, enter the number or account details, and the amount.
  4. Check the receiver’s name on the confirmation screen before entering your PIN.

To move money from your bank to your wallet, use your bank’s app, USSD code or internet banking and choose the mobile money option.

Fees for cross-network and bank transfers are set by your provider and can change. Your confirmation screen shows the charge before you approve. Read it every time.

Why it matters for you

  • Fewer cash-outs. You can pay someone on another network directly instead of withdrawing cash.
  • Your bank and wallet work together. Salary in the bank, spending in MoMo, savings back to the bank.
  • More competition. Because customers can move money easily, providers have more reason to keep prices and service competitive.

Tips for safe cross-network transfers

  • Double-check the network. Choosing the wrong network is a common cause of failed or delayed transfers.
  • Confirm the name. The confirmation screen should show the receiver’s registered name.
  • Keep the transaction ID until the receiver confirms they got the money.
  • If a transfer fails but money left your wallet, contact your provider with the transaction ID. Failed transfers are usually returned, but report it if it is not.

This guide was checked in October 2026. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.

Common questions

Do I need a special app to send to another network?

No. Use your normal mobile money short code or app and choose the option to send to another network or to a bank.

Can I send money from my wallet to someone’s bank account?

Yes. Wallet-to-bank and bank-to-wallet transfers are part of Ghana’s interoperability system.

Why did my cross-network transfer fail?

Common reasons are choosing the wrong network, a wrong number, or a temporary system issue. If money left your wallet but did not arrive, contact your provider with the transaction ID.

Is it safe?

The system is run by GhIPSS, a subsidiary of the Bank of Ghana. The usual rules still apply: check the receiver’s name before confirming and never share your PIN.

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