In a significant recognition of digital innovation, Akufada Microfinance has been celebrated as a leader in technological advancement within East Africa's financial sector.
A Prestigious Honour at Nexus 2025
The institution was presented with the Digital Transformation Pioneer Award (East Africa OFI / Fintech) at the prestigious Nexus 2025 Awards. This event, held on 3 January 2026, spotlights organisations across Africa that are redefining excellence in financial services through innovation and modernisation.
The award specifically acknowledges financial entities that have successfully moved away from outdated manual systems to implement fully digital, integrated, and scalable operational platforms. For Akufada, this accolade is a testament to its strategic and deliberate journey towards building a modern financial infrastructure.
Technology as a Strategic Backbone
Operating in Ethiopia's challenging market, where access and system interoperability are major hurdles, Akufada Microfinance made a pivotal decision. Instead of treating technology as a mere add-on, the company embedded it as the core foundation of its growth strategy.
By embracing comprehensive end-to-end digitization, the microfinance institution has achieved remarkable outcomes. Service delivery has improved, data visibility has been enhanced, and operational efficiency has been significantly strengthened. This transformation positions Akufada not just for sustainable business growth, but also for creating a broader, more positive impact on the communities it serves.
Leadership Perspective on the Achievement
Abrham Wadajo, the Chief Executive Officer of Akufada Microfinance, shared his thoughts on this milestone. He stated that winning the award validates the institution's commitment to constructing resilient and future-ready financial systems.
"This recognition reflects our strategic focus on leveraging technology to enhance service delivery, improve data visibility and strengthen operational efficiency for sustainable growth," Wadajo said. He emphasised that for Akufada, digital transformation transcends mere system upgrades; it is fundamentally about empowering communities and generating long-term value for customers and all stakeholders.
The Nexus Awards' Digital Transformation Pioneer category is designed to honour organisations that are at the forefront of modernisation. These are institutions building robust platforms that drive efficiency, resilience, and lasting impact within their operational markets.
For Akufada Microfinance, this award solidifies its reputation as a trailblazer in Ethiopia's microfinance landscape. It demonstrates conclusively that with a solid digital foundation, financial institutions can break free from conventional limitations. This paves the way for new possibilities in financial inclusion, economic growth, and the empowerment of individuals and businesses across the nation.
