Access Africa Now: Empowering Africa's Financial Future-Exploring Fintech’s Role in Growth and Opportunity

04/29/2025 (12:00 PM)
06/24/2025 (1:00 PM)
(GMT-04:00) Eastern Time (US and Canada)

About

Access Africa Now: Empowering Africa's Financial Future-Exploring Fintech’s Role in Growth and Opportunity

Join the U.S. Commercial Service for an insightful webinar series that delves into the rapidly evolving fintech landscape across Africa. With one of the highest mobile phone penetration rates in the world and a significant portion of the population still unbanked, Africa presents an extraordinary opportunity for U.S. technology companies. This series will explore the transformative potential of fintech to drive economic growth..

Each session will focus on key areas where fintech is reshaping the African financial ecosystem, topics covered will depend on market opportunities for each country:

  • Mobile Payments & Digital Wallets: How mobile technology is revolutionizing payments and financial access.
  • Banking the Unbanked: Innovative solutions bringing banking to Africa’s vast unbanked population.
  • P2P Lending & Microfinance: Exploring how fintech is facilitating credit access for individuals and SMEs.
  • Cross-Border Payments & Remittances: How fintech platforms are optimizing global money transfers.
  • RegTech: Tools for regulatory compliance in Africa’s fast-growing fintech market.
  • E-Commerce Payment Solutions: Meeting the demand for secure, fast, and scalable payment systems.
  • Digital Identity & Biometric Solutions: Securing financial services with next-gen identity verification technologies.
  • POS & Merchant Services: Helping SMEs access digital payment systems for growth.

The series will provide deep insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Africa’s fintech sector, offering a roadmap for entrepreneurs, investors, and fintech professionals eager to be part of the continent's digital financial revolution.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the key opportunities in mobile payments, digital banking and more.
  • Learn how fintech can drive economic inclusion, especially for unbanked populations.
  • Gain insights from industry leaders on the latest fintech innovations and solutions transforming Africa’s financial future.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to be at the forefront of Africa’s fintech revolution. Register now to secure your spot in this essential webinar series!

For full description of each session, see "Agenda" below and select "Learn More".

Webinars Begin on April 29  
Series Schedule: 

April 29 - Ethiopia

May 06 - Nigeria

May 08 – Kenya & Mozambique

May 13 - Ghana

May 22 – Tanzania

June 03 – South Africa

June 05 - Angola

Cost:

  • We invite you to customize the webinar series according to your training needs. You can join individual webinars or the entire series.

  • $280 for the entire webinar series (all 7 webinars)

  • $40 each individual webinar

This is a new event registration system, if you have any issues registering, please reach out to us. You should receive a confirmation email once you have registered and paid for the event.

Questions?

For any questions regarding the webinar series, please contact Larry.Tabash@trade.gov

LEARN ABOUT OUR EVENTS

We invite you to explore the wide variety of events that we offer to help U.S. companies expand their global sales.


Agenda

29
Ethiopia's Growing Fintech Sector
Ethiopia's Growing Fintech Sector

Ethiopia's fintech sector is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by increasing mobile phone penetration, supportive regulatory changes, and rising demand for financial inclusion. Digital initiatives and reforms have created a conducive environment for fintech development, driven by key factors such as regulatory reforms, financial sector liberalization, telecom reforms, the introduction of digital IDs, financial inclusion initiatives, and government-led digital payment programs.

Topics to be discussed:

  • Latest Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities in Ethiopia's Digital Financial Ecosystem
    • A deep dive into the current landscape, growth drivers, and obstacles facing fintech in Ethiopia.
  • The Role of Fintech in Driving Financial Inclusion
    • Exploring how fintech is contributing to bridging the financial inclusion gap and improving access to financial services.
  • Regulatory Frameworks Shaping Digital Finance in Ethiopia
    • A look at the evolving regulatory environment and how it’s enabling fintech innovation and growth.
  • Innovations in Mobile Banking and Payments
    • Examining the latest developments in mobile banking solutions and digital payment systems.
  • Opportunities for Collaboration Between Ethiopian Fintech Companies and U.S. Fintech Players
    • Discussing potential partnerships, investment opportunities, and ways to build cross-border collaboration between Ethiopian and U.S. fintech companies.

 
We look forward to your participation and a dynamic discussion on Ethiopia's fintech landscape.

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06
Nigeria
Nigeria

Nigeria's Growing Fintech Sector

Description:
Nigeria's fintech sector is rapidly evolving, driven by increased mobile phone penetration, a supportive regulatory environment, and a large unbanked population. With digital initiatives and reforms supporting financial inclusion, Nigeria is positioning itself as a fintech hub in Africa. Key factors such as regulatory advancements, telecom infrastructure expansion, the introduction of digital identities, financial inclusion programs, and government-backed digital payment systems are fueling this growth.

Topics to be discussed:

  • Latest Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities in Nigeria's Digital Financial Ecosystem
    A deep dive into the current landscape, growth drivers, and challenges faced by the fintech sector in Nigeria.
  • The Role of Fintech in Driving Financial Inclusion
    Exploring how fintech is improving access to financial services, particularly for Nigeria's underserved and unbanked populations.
  • Regulatory Frameworks Shaping Digital Finance in Nigeria
    An overview of the evolving regulatory environment and how it is fostering fintech innovation and sustainable growth.
  • Innovations in Mobile Banking and Payments
    Examining the latest advancements in mobile banking solutions and digital payment systems in Nigeria, and their impact on the financial ecosystem.
  • Opportunities for Collaboration Between Nigerian Fintech Companies and Global Players
    Discussing potential partnerships, investment opportunities, and cross-border collaborations between Nigerian and international fintech companies.

We look forward to your participation and an engaging discussion on Nigeria's fintech landscape.

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08
Kenya and Mozambique
Kenya and Mozambique

Kenya's Growing Fintech Sector

Description:
Kenya's fintech sector has emerged as one of the most dynamic in Africa, driven by a combination of technological innovation, mobile money adoption, and a supportive regulatory framework. With mobile-based financial solutions like M-Pesa leading the charge, Kenya has become a fintech hub with a strong focus on financial inclusion. Key drivers of growth include mobile technology, digital payments, government-backed initiatives, and increasing efforts to bridge the financial inclusion gap.

Topics to be discussed:

  • Latest Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities in Kenya's Digital Financial Ecosystem
    An in-depth look at the current landscape, key trends, and obstacles faced by fintech companies in Kenya.
  • The Role of Fintech in Driving Financial Inclusion
    Exploring how fintech is making financial services more accessible, particularly for Kenya’s unbanked and underserved populations.
  • Regulatory Frameworks Shaping Digital Finance in Kenya
    A look at Kenya’s evolving regulatory landscape and how it’s creating an environment conducive to fintech innovation and growth.
  • Innovations in Mobile Banking and Payments
    An examination of the innovations driving mobile banking and digital payment systems in Kenya, and their impact on the financial sector.
  • Opportunities for Collaboration Between Kenyan Fintech Companies and Global Players
    Discussing potential partnerships, investment opportunities, and ways to strengthen cross-border collaboration between Kenyan fintech companies and international players.
We look forward to your participation and a lively discussion on Kenya's fintech ecosystem.

ozambique's Growing Fintech Sector

Description:
Mozambique’s fintech sector is on the rise, driven by increasing mobile phone penetration, a young and tech-savvy population, and a growing demand for inclusive financial services. The country’s expanding digital infrastructure, along with government support for financial inclusion, is creating an environment conducive to fintech innovation. Key drivers of this growth include mobile money adoption, digital payments, supportive regulatory frameworks, and government-led initiatives aimed at increasing access to financial services across the country.

Topics to be discussed:

  • Latest Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities in Mozambique's Digital Financial Ecosystem
    An in-depth exploration of the current landscape, growth drivers, and challenges facing fintech in Mozambique.
  • The Role of Fintech in Driving Financial Inclusion
    Examining how fintech is addressing the financial inclusion gap and expanding access to essential financial services for Mozambique's unbanked and underserved populations.
  • Regulatory Frameworks Shaping Digital Finance in Mozambique
    A look at Mozambique’s evolving regulatory landscape and how it is fostering innovation while ensuring the growth of fintech in a sustainable and secure manner.
  • Innovations in Mobile Banking and Payments
    Exploring the latest innovations in mobile banking and digital payment systems in Mozambique, and their role in transforming the country’s financial services sector.
  • Opportunities for Collaboration Between Mozambican Fintech Companies and Global Players
    Discussing potential partnerships, investment opportunities, and strategies for fostering cross-border collaborations between Mozambican fintech companies and global fintech players.
We look forward to your participation and an engaging discussion on Mozambique's fintech ecosystem.
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13
Ghana
Ghana

Ghana's Growing Fintech Sector

Description:
Ghana’s fintech sector is experiencing rapid growth, spurred by a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, increased mobile penetration, and a growing demand for inclusive financial services. With government support, expanding digital infrastructure, and an increasingly favorable regulatory environment, Ghana is positioning itself as a key player in West Africa’s fintech space. Key drivers of growth include digital payment systems, mobile banking innovations, financial inclusion initiatives, and the government's push for a cashless economy.

Topics to be discussed:

  • Latest Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities in Ghana's Digital Financial Ecosystem
    A detailed look at the current landscape, key trends, and challenges that fintech companies in Ghana are navigating.
  • The Role of Fintech in Driving Financial Inclusion
    Exploring how fintech is addressing the financial inclusion gap and improving access to essential financial services for the underserved and unbanked populations.
  • Regulatory Frameworks Shaping Digital Finance in Ghana
    An overview of Ghana’s regulatory environment and how it is creating a supportive foundation for fintech development and innovation.
  • Innovations in Mobile Banking and Payments
    Examining the latest mobile banking and digital payment innovations in Ghana, and their role in transforming the financial services landscape.
  • Opportunities for Collaboration Between Ghanaian Fintech Companies and Global Players
    Discussing potential collaborations, investment opportunities, and strategies for building strong cross-border partnerships between Ghanaian fintech companies and global fintech leaders.
We look forward to your participation and a fruitful discussion on Ghana's fintech ecosystem.
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22
Tanzania
Tanzania

Tanzania's Expanding Fintech Landscape

Tanzania's fintech sector is rapidly evolving, supported by a growing demand for digital financial services, increasing mobile penetration, and supportive government initiatives. The country is increasingly becoming a key player in East Africa’s fintech ecosystem, driven by innovations in mobile money, digital payments, and efforts to enhance financial inclusion. The sector’s growth is fueled by a combination of a dynamic regulatory environment, mobile banking solutions, and strong government and international support for fintech development.

 Topics to be discussed:

  • Current Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities in Tanzania's Digital Financial Ecosystem
    A deep dive into the fintech landscape, identifying key growth areas, challenges, and opportunities in Tanzania’s digital finance space.
  • The Role of Fintech in Promoting Financial Inclusion in Tanzania
    Exploring how fintech is improving access to financial services for Tanzania’s unbanked and underserved populations, and how it’s bridging the financial inclusion gap.
  • Tanzania's Regulatory Landscape and its Impact on Fintech
    An overview of Tanzania’s regulatory environment and how it is fostering innovation in fintech, ensuring consumer protection, and creating a stable ecosystem for growth.
  • Innovations in Mobile Payments and Digital Banking in Tanzania
    Examining the latest innovations in mobile payments and mobile banking, and how they are transforming financial access and inclusion for Tanzanians.
  • Collaborative Opportunities Between Tanzanian Fintech Companies and Global Investors
    Discussing the potential for international partnerships, investment opportunities, and strategies for fostering cross-border collaboration between Tanzanian fintech startups and global fintech leaders.

We look forward to your participation and an engaging discussion on Tanzania’s emerging fintech sector.

 

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03
South Africa
South Africa

South Africa's Growing Fintech Sector

Description:
South Africa’s fintech sector is thriving, fueled by a robust digital infrastructure, progressive regulatory frameworks, and a growing demand for financial inclusion. With a well-established banking sector and rapid adoption of mobile technologies, the country is becoming a leading player in the African fintech landscape. Key drivers of this growth include regulatory innovations, digital payments, mobile banking solutions, financial inclusion programs, and strong government support for fintech development.

Topics to be discussed:

  • Latest Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities in South Africa's Digital Financial Ecosystem
    A deep dive into the current fintech landscape, key growth drivers, and the challenges faced by the sector in South Africa.
  • The Role of Fintech in Driving Financial Inclusion
    Exploring how fintech is playing a critical role in improving access to financial services, especially for the unbanked and underserved populations in South Africa.
  • Regulatory Frameworks Shaping Digital Finance in South Africa
    An overview of South Africa’s regulatory environment and how it is enabling fintech innovation while ensuring stability and consumer protection.
  • Innovations in Mobile Banking and Payments
    Examining the latest developments in mobile banking and digital payments, and their impact on financial access and inclusion in South Africa.
  • Opportunities for Collaboration Between South African Fintech Companies and Global Players
    Discussing potential partnerships, investment opportunities, and strategies for fostering cross-border collaboration between South African fintech companies and global fintech leaders.
We look forward to your participation and an insightful discussion on South Africa's fintech sector.
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12:00 PM
End
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05
Angola
Angola

Angola's Growing Fintech Sector

Description:
Angola's fintech sector is rapidly evolving, driven by the country's growing mobile phone penetration, a young and tech-savvy population, and an increasing demand for financial inclusion. As the government and regulatory bodies introduce supportive frameworks, Angola is positioning itself as a key player in the fintech landscape of Southern Africa. Key drivers include mobile payment solutions, digital banking innovations, expanding financial inclusion initiatives, and the increasing role of technology in transforming the financial sector.

Topics to be discussed:

  • Latest Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities in Angola's Digital Financial Ecosystem
    A comprehensive look at the current landscape of fintech in Angola, including key growth factors, emerging challenges, and potential opportunities in the market.
  • The Role of Fintech in Driving Financial Inclusion
    Exploring how fintech is contributing to closing the financial inclusion gap, particularly for underserved and unbanked populations in Angola.
  • Regulatory Frameworks Shaping Digital Finance in Angola
    An overview of Angola’s evolving regulatory environment and how it is creating a foundation for sustainable fintech growth while ensuring consumer protection.
  • Innovations in Mobile Banking and Payments
    Examining the latest developments in mobile banking and digital payment systems in Angola and their impact on improving access to financial services.
  • Opportunities for Collaboration Between Angolan Fintech Companies and Global Players
    Discussing the potential for partnerships, investment opportunities, and strategies to strengthen cross-border collaborations between Angolan fintech companies and international players.
We look forward to your participation and a dynamic discussion on Angola's fintech ecosystem.
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Speakers

Heather McLeod Speaker image

Heather McLeod

Senior Commercial Officer, CS Angola / Office of the Middle East and Africa

Joseph Githaiga Speaker image

Joseph Githaiga

Partner, Spencer West

Joseph Githaiga is a Co-Founder and Partner of Spencer West Kenya. He is a leading legal and regulatory expert in Kenya’s fintech sector, with extensive experience in policy, governance and compliance. He advises the Fintech Association of Kenya, supports regulatory advocacy, and played a key role in developing Kenya’s digital lending framework through seminal studies on fintech policy and investment.

 

A former Director at PwC Kenya, Joseph also led groundbreaking regulatory research that shaped amendments to the Central Bank of Kenya Act with respect to the regulation of digital credit providers in Kenya. He serves on the Advisory Board of Power Financial Wellness Inc. and was instrumental in forming The Fintech Alliance, an umbrella body for the fintech ecosystem in Kenya, which launched in January in 2025.

 

His work continues to drive innovation, financial inclusion and a harmonized fintech regulatory landscape in Kenya.

 

Kevin Mutiso Speaker image

Kevin Mutiso

Fintech Expert

Kevin Mutiso isn’t just building apps—he’s rewriting the rules of survival for Africa’s 100 million motorcycle taxi (boda) riders. As founder of OYE (“The Boda Company”), Mutiso merges fintech, gamification, and climate action to transform informal transport into a launchpad for generational wealth.

With 17 years of lending experience, Mutiso also chairs the Digital Financial Services Association of Kenya (DFSAK), advocating for progressive regulation in the fintech space. His vision? To play his role in ensuring Africa is the most modern place on earth by 2050.

As a young economy architect, Mutiso has played a pivotal role in shaping Kenya's digital lending industry. Under his leadership as DFSAK chairman, consumer protection has become a cornerstone of the sector's growth. Through collaborative efforts with regulators like the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner, the industry has seen a dramatic 75% reduction in harassment and debt shaming cases by digital lenders. This transformation has seen complaints plummet from thousands per month to just a few tens today. Crucially, Mutiso has championed progressive regulations that protect consumers without stifling innovation, ensuring the industry can continue to evolve and serve the needs of Kenya's unbanked population.

Mr. Solomon Damtew Speaker image

Mr. Solomon Damtew

Director, Payment and Settlement Systems Directorate, National Bank of Ethiopia

Andualem Hailu (PhD) Speaker image

Andualem Hailu (PhD)

Deputy CEO- Strategy & Technology, Hibret Bank S.C. and D/Chairman Board of Directors Ethiopian Digital Financial Service Providers Association

Blake Murray Speaker image

Blake Murray

Commercial Attache, U.S. Commercial Service – Lagos, Nigeria

Lonje Mwendera Speaker image

Lonje Mwendera

Commercial Specialist, South Africa

Mr. Seyoum Mengesha Speaker image

Mr. Seyoum Mengesha

Digital Economy Development CEO, Ministry of Innovation and Technology

Mr. Seyoum Mengesha

Digital Economy Development CEO

Ministry of Innovation and Technology

Joshua Startup Speaker image

Joshua Startup

Commercial Officer, Kenya

Leon Skarshinski Speaker image

Leon Skarshinski

Commercial Counselor, U.S. Commercial Service Ethiopia

Rachel Kreissl Speaker image

Rachel Kreissl

Senior Commercial Officer, Ghana