Major Fintech Gathering Set for Kigali in March 2026 with Significant Implications for Nigeria
For professionals operating within the fintech, policy, digital banking, Web3, payments, or startup investment sectors across Africa, a pivotal event is scheduled for March 2026 that demands close attention. The Inclusive FinTech Forum (IFF) 2026 is poised to return to Kigali, Rwanda, from March 10 to 12, positioning itself as a crucial dialogue on the continent's financial trajectory.
A Platform for Tangible Impact Beyond Typical Conferences
Following two successful iterations, including the 2025 forum that united regulators, founders, investors, and financial institutions, the third edition is anticipated to expand significantly. IFF distinguishes itself as more than just another fintech conference; it serves as a global platform where policymakers, central banks, investors, fintech founders, and development partners converge to formulate actual regulatory frameworks, partnerships, and long-term infrastructure aimed at enhancing financial inclusion.
In 2026, the forum expects to welcome up to 3,000 delegates from Africa and beyond, featuring high-level speakers and a pronounced emphasis on practical implementation rather than mere discussion. The event boasts strong institutional support, with the National Bank of Rwanda joining forces with the Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC) and the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) as lead partners.
Theme and Focus Areas: Shaping Inclusive Finance's Future
The forum's theme, "Shaping the Future of Inclusive Finance: Innovation. Impact. Connection," mirrors the urgent discussions unfolding within African fintech ecosystems. Key areas of concentration include:
- Building Africa's Digital Currency Corridor: Encompassing Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and cross-border commerce.
- AI-Powered Financial Inclusion: Scaling intelligent solutions in emerging markets.
- Open Finance Ecosystems: Connecting Africa to global financial systems.
- Climate FinTech: Financing Africa's green transition.
For Nigerian founders, regulators, and investors, these themes resonate deeply, particularly as local conversations around cross-border payments, AI in finance, and digital asset regulation continue to gain momentum.
Why Nigerian Stakeholders Should Prioritize This Event
Nigeria stands as one of Africa's largest fintech markets, making events like IFF invaluable for several reasons. They provide opportunities to:
- Engage directly with regulators from across the continent.
- Form cross-border partnerships that can drive expansion.
- Gain insights into upcoming policy directions that may affect operations.
- Position early in infrastructure conversations that will shape the next wave of fintech innovation.
For operators aiming to scale beyond a single market, participation in such forums is strategically essential.
Target Audience and Registration Details
The Inclusive FinTech Forum 2026 is tailored for fintech founders and operators, policy advisors and regulators, investors and venture capitalists, financial institutions, Web3 and digital asset builders, and development finance institutions. The event will be held at the Kigali Convention Centre from March 10 to 12, 2026, with registration currently open for those committed to influencing Africa's financial future.
