The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Foreign Investment Network (FIN) have taken a decisive step to shape the continent's digital financial landscape. The collaboration was cemented during the high-level 4th Africa Cashless Payment Systems Conference, held virtually on December 4, 2025.
Building a Safer Cashless Ecosystem
The virtual conference, themed 'Building a Safer Cashless Economy and Business Communities', served as a crucial platform for policymakers, financial leaders, and technology innovators. The discussions centered on three critical pillars: scaling public trust in digital systems, strengthening the underlying digital infrastructure, and accelerating the pace of financial inclusion across Africa.
FIN Vice President, Kate Sovedagari, set the tone in her welcome address. She stressed the urgent need for regional collaboration and innovation-driven growth to create secure digital environments for both businesses and consumers.
Keynote Insights: Policy, Integration, and Innovation
The AfDB delivered the conference's anchor keynote. Dr. Anthony Simpasa, Director of the Bank's Research Department, represented AfDB President Dr. Sidi Ould Tah. On behalf of the President, Dr. Simpasa outlined the Bank's strategic vision.
He emphasized the central role of policy coherence and digital trust as foundations for growth. The importance of regional integration was also highlighted as a key driver for seamless digital finance. Furthermore, Dr. Simpasa reaffirmed the AfDB's ongoing commitment to support African governments through:
- Developing robust regulatory frameworks.
- Investing in critical digital infrastructure.
- Providing financing for innovation.
This address reinforced the AfDB's leadership in fostering a secure, inclusive, and interoperable digital financial ecosystem for the continent.
Introducing Transformative Economic Models
The second keynote introduced a forward-thinking concept for Africa's future. Himesh Ramanlal Patel, Founder & CEO of Sync Neural Genesis AG and associated entities, presented 'The Enerconomy'. This transformative model explores how digital systems backed by energy assets can drive greater economic participation, build resilience, and promote sustainability in emerging markets like Africa.
The conference successfully aggregated diverse perspectives from globally recognized economists, fintech pioneers, technology experts, and practicing CEOs, creating a comprehensive roadmap for Africa's digital finance journey.
