The recent announcement by Paystack about the launch of its new product, Zap, has sparked discussions and even tensions across the tech ecosystem.
There have been claims about the originality of the name. While the debate continues, let’s take a look at some companies in Africa that have used “Zap” in their branding long before Paystack’s new product entered the market.
1. Zap
A digital satellite television provider launched in Angola in 2010. This company offers services primarily to Portuguese-speaking countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
The service expanded to Mozambique in 2011 and has quickly established itself, offering a range of TV channels.
Zap has also developed its own channels, such as Zap Viva and Zap Novelas, and has ventured into fibre-optic Internet services and cinema complexes in Luanda.
2. Zap Africa Ltd
This company was incorporated in the United Kingdom on October 29, 2024, with a registered office in Epsom, Surrey.
Specific details about its operations are limited; however, it is still active and is categorised under other information technology service activities.
3. Zap Africa
Zap Africa is a Nigerian-based operator of a cryptocurrency trading platform founded in 2023 by Moore Dagogo-Hart. The company facilitates the exchange of cryptocurrencies for fiat currency.
Zap Africa introduced Nigeria’s first non-custodial crypto exchange, allowing users to maintain control over their private keys and funds.
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4. Zap Logistics
This Nigerian-based logistics and supply chain management company offers comprehensive transportation and distribution services.
Located in Ibadan, Oyo State, the firm caters to businesses and individual clients across Nigeria.
5. Zap Media Productions
This Ugandan-based media company provides video production, photography, and digital content creation services.
The company works with various clients, including businesses, NGOs, and individuals, to produce media content for marketing and promotional purposes.
6. ZappGroup Africa Limited
Registered in Rosebank, Mauritius, the company, which managed holding companies, is no longer active. It has rebranded as VantagePay and now provides payment solutions with offices in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and London
7. Zap Oil Purification Ltd
This South African company specialises in mobile oil purification using vacuum dehydration processes, catering to clients across sub-Saharan Africa.
8. Zapproach Ltd
Established in 2017 and headquartered in Riche Terre, Terre Rouge, Mauritius, Zapproach is a technology company specialising in customised software development and digital solutions.
The company offers ERP solutions under its flagship product, Zaccbox, payment gateway services, e-wallet solutions, customised product development, and infrastructure and product support.
The big picture
Paystack’s new product, Zap, may be the next big thing in the African fintech space, but the fact that multiple companies across different industries already use the name “Zap” sends a mixed signal.
The company has already begun facing legal issues with Nigeria’s cryptocurrency company, Zap Africa.
For now, it remains to be seen how the controversy around the name will unfold, but Paystack is not the first to use the name “Zap” in Africa and likely won’t be the last.
