Building Financial Infrastructure Resilience at AFIS 2024

The discussions on Day 2 of the Africa Financial Summit (AFIS) focused on solutions to steer the continent toward a more connected and inclusive financial future.

Casablanca – Africa Financial Summit Shaping Financial Future

The Africa Financial Summit (AFIS) is in full swing, with a strong focus on transforming Africa's financial sector for sustainable growth. The event, running from December 9 to 11, brings together influential leaders, policymakers, and innovators from across Africa and beyond to discuss strategic steps needed to propel the continent into a new era. The summit addresses critical challenges such as infrastructure financing, innovative investments, and the need for stronger financial inclusion.

A Changing Economy: Innovation and Collaboration

Building on the momentum of Monday’s impactful discussions, Day 2 offered practical strategies and innovative solutions aimed at propelling Africa's economic future. A distinguished lineup of financial leaders, policymakers, and industry innovators gathered to explore how collaboration can shape Africa's financial ecosystem.

Mohamed El Kettani, CEO of Attijariwafa Bank, delivered a keynote emphasizing the importance of creating pan-African banks capable of driving economic transformation across the continent. He argued, "Africa needs banks that can integrate payment systems across borders to support the continent's economic growth," advocating for a progressive approach involving stable economies and collaboration with fintechs to build a unified financial force.

Financial Growth in Africa: Technology at the Forefront

Another significant discussion focused on the role of innovation and fintech in driving financial inclusion. Speakers explored how technological advances, such as blockchain and mobile banking, are opening new opportunities for underserved populations. Sergio Pimenta, Vice President for Africa at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), expressed his satisfaction with the summit’s success in fostering dialogue about Africa’s financial ecosystem. He acknowledged the decline in private equity operations in Africa but commended the growing interest of African economic players in reinforcing investments and solidifying their financial structures. Pimenta also reaffirmed IFC’s confidence in Africa’s resilience and capacity to innovate.

Cross-Border Partnerships: Strengthening Financial Stability

The summit highlighted the importance of cross-border partnerships to enhance financial stability and investment. Discussions emphasized the need for building a collaborative environment where African financial institutions and fintechs can work together to create a more integrated financial landscape. A shared vision of pan-African unity and cooperation emerged as a central theme, with speakers urging greater collaboration between financial institutions, governments, and technology innovators to create an environment conducive to sustainable growth.

Celebrating Africa’s Potential: A Bright Future Ahead

As the day progressed, sessions underscored the immense potential of Africa’s financial sector to influence global markets, attract investments, facilitate trade, and build a resilient financial infrastructure that supports the continent's vast opportunities. Concluding Day 2 of the Africa Financial Summit 2024, it became clear that the event is more than just a platform for discussion; it serves as a springboard for action. The summit sets the stage for transformative growth through collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

The summit's organizers expressed that the goal is to turn visionary ideas into actionable strategies. With the momentum generated over the past two days, the future of Africa’s financial integration looks brighter, as stakeholders work together to unlock the continent’s full potential.