Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – 8 November 2023: AfricaNenda and Co-Develop reinforced their commitment to advancing financial inclusion and economic empowerment in Africa through a strategic media training and briefing event in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This exclusive session, held in conjunction with the highly anticipated State of Inclusive Instant Payment Systems (SIIPS) 2023 Report Launch, focused on empowering over 30 African journalists with comprehensive knowledge of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and Inclusive Instant Payment Systems (IIPS).

The event marked a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between AfricaNenda and Co-Develop, aiming to enhance DPI and IIPS on the continent. Through interactive discussions and expert insights, media professionals gained a deep understanding of the pivotal role IIPS and DPI play in fostering financial inclusion, especially in regions with limited access to formal banking services.

"The collaboration between AfricaNenda and Co-Develop in hosting this media training event underscores our shared dedication to driving positive change in Africa through the journey of innovation and inclusion that Digital Public Infrastructure can catalyse," stated Sabine Mensah, Deputy CEO at AfricaNenda. "By equipping journalists with the necessary knowledge, we empower them to champion the case for digital financial inclusion across the continent."

The training event highlighted key findings, trends, and recommendations from the SIIPS 2023 Report, a collaboration between AfricaNenda, the World Bank, and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. Participants engaged in discussions centred on the inclusivity of instant payment systems and their role as a cornerstone of DPI, enabling economic participation for all Africans.

“This is a bold milestone together with AfricaNenda as a partner in the launch of this report. Over the last few years, we have seen the growth of instant payment systems across Africa, and this is essential as Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to ensure that all Africans regardless of their income levels or geography, can be included meaningfully in the growing digital economy. The findings of the report are encouraging, and we look forward to more similar sessions to empower the media with information and capacity,” said Robert Karanja, Senior Director for Africa at Co-Develop.

For too long, millions of Africans have been excluded from the formal financial system, unable to access the basic banking services that are essential for economic participation. IIPS can change that. By enabling fast, secure, and affordable digital payments, IIPS can level the playing field for all Africans, regardless of their income or location.

The launch of the SIIPS 2023 report is a critical step towards achieving a more inclusive and prosperous Africa. It is a testament to the continent's commitment to innovation and its determination to build a better future for all its people.