My credit card keeps declining in Niger and I have enough money on there and all international transactions are activated - what do I do?
If your card keeps declining in Niger, try using ATMs at major banks in Niamey. Mobile money like Wave and Orange Money are gaining, so having these apps helps. I recommend preloading a prepaid travel card before the trip as backup, plus plenty of cash in West African CFA francs.
Card declines in Niger are usually because local merchants or ATMs struggle with international setups. I switched between cards and relied more on cash withdrawals from trusted banks like Banque Atlantique. Notify your bank about your trip dates; that usually prevents auto blocks.
I was in Niamey and kept getting declines on my Visa card. Turns out my bank flagged transactions because Niger is lower risk but still on some watchlists. I had to call support to unblock. Also, use ATMs at Ecobank or United Bank for Africa, which handle international cards better. Always carry enough local money as backup.
In Niger, I faced similar card declines despite funds and activation. The issue is often lack of POS compatibility or weak networks. I used orange money and mobile payments a bit, but cash in CFA francs is king. Calling your bank to double-check country-specific limitations or fraud blocks is essential before heading out.