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This blog is part of a series documenting our program’s journey to accelerate the development of inclusive payments systems for universal access to financial services in Africa. #IAmAfricaNenda

Accelerating Financial Inclusion in Africa: The Journey Toward Inclusive Instant Payment Systems

Miriam wakes up early in her small village in rural Uganda, determined to make the most of her day. Her dreams are as vibrant as the fabrics she sews: to buy a second sewing machine, hire an assistant, and turn her small business into a reliable source of income for her family.

However, as one of Africa’s 400 million unbanked individuals, Miriam faces daily financial uncertainty. Without access to formal financial services, she stores her earnings in a tin box under her bed.

Latest blogs

6 March 2024 / Bery Dieye, Community Engagement & Digital Content Lead

International Women Day 2024: Breaking Barriers, Accelerating Progress.

International Women's Day always presents an opportunity to reflect on the progress made toward gender equality and to assess the journey that still lies ahead, in all areas. This year's theme, "Investing in Women: Accelerate progress" echoes one of the calls to action we made in our latest State of Inclusive Instant Payment Systems in Africa 2023 (SIIPS 2023) report.

7 February 2024 / Jamelino Akogbeto West & Central Africa Regional Director, AfricaNenda

Cape Verde: Balancing between digital payment promotion and cash resilience

Digital payment experts unanimously agree that a well-structured financial ecosystem optimizes the use of banking products and services. By fostering financial inclusion and digital transactions, countries can reduce the use of cash and thereby benefit from the increased safety, efficiency, and transparency of a cashless economy. Yet there are counterforces working against digitalization.

29 January 2024 / Felista Amagarat, Senior Research Analyst

Navigating Design Choices: Essential Considerations for CBDCs - Part II

In the initial installment of our blog series, we focused into the realm of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and their potential as a game-changer in the pursuit of financial inclusion in Africa. We explored the nuances of CBDCs, acknowledging their varied features and functions across nations, shaped by policy choices and market environments. As we navigate the intricate landscape of CBDC development, we will explore the key considerations, principles, and the human-centered design approach needed to create inclusive digital currencies in this second part.