Building on the success of its inaugural event, the annual Inclusive FinTech Forum is set to return for its second edition on August 26-27, 2024. Hosted in Kigali, Rwanda, this year’s forum promises to be a pivotal event, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC), Elevandi – a company set up by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to advance FinTech in the digital economy, and the National Bank of Rwanda.
This year’s theme, “Empowering Economic Inclusion Through Accelerated Technology Adoption,” aims to harness FinTech’s potential in promoting economic inclusion and driving sustainable development. The forum is expected to attract over 1,000 delegates, including global and regional leaders from various sectors such as Heads of State, policymakers, investors, and representatives from financial and development institutions.
The forum will feature high-level dialogues aimed at delving into strategies for achieving economic inclusion and driving the sustainable development of FinTech. Featured formats include:
- Keynote Addresses: high-level talks from global leaders in FinTech, highlighting the potential of technology in financial services.
- Panel Discussions: Engaging and rich panels covering a wide range of topics including digital currencies, digital public goods, AI in finance, and the future of banking.
- Pitching Sessions: a platform for emerging FinTech startups to pitch their ideas to institutional and individual investors.
- Curated Space for Workshops: Exhibitions and showcases of the latest FinTech innovations designed to expand financial access around the globe, tailored to meet the needs of underserved populations.
- Networking Opportunities: Numerous networking opportunities designed to foster connections and collaborations among participants.
Nick Barigye, Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Finance Limited, the agency mandated to promote the Kigali International Financial Centre, stated: “Hosting the Global Inclusive FinTech Forum is pivotal for Rwanda and the African continent. It stands as a true testament to Kigali’s growing significance as a hub for FinTech innovation and investment. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, we can create sustainable and inclusive financial ecosystems that empower individuals and businesses alike. FinTech not only revolutionizes economic inclusion but also enhances the competitiveness and resilience of International Financial Centres, fostering global collaboration and innovation in financial services.”
John Rwangombwa, Governor of the Central Bank of Rwanda, said: “As we host the second edition of the Inclusive FinTech Forum, it is imperative to recognize the transformative power of FinTech in enhancing financial inclusion across Rwanda, Africa, and beyond. This forum not only aligns with our national agenda to modernize financial services but also serves as a catalyst for international collaboration. By bringing together global and local stakeholders, we pave the way for innovative solutions that will ensure sustainable and inclusive economic growth and prosperity for all.”
Sopnendu Mohanty, Chief FinTech Officer of the Monetary Authority of Singapore and Chairman of Elevandi Board added: “The Inclusive FinTech Forum 2024 mission is to bridge the financial gap and provide a pathway to sustainable and inclusive economic prosperity. This forum encourages meaningful discussions about inclusion, impact, and prosperity, paving the way for a more comprehensive financial future. By promoting dialogue around inclusion and effect, we can bridge the gap and unleash the true potential of FinTech for everyone. The ideas generated here will form the basis for ongoing conversations at all Elevandi convening platforms throughout the year, including the Singapore FinTech Festival, Japan FinTech Festival, 3i Summit, and Point Zero Forum.”
The cooperation between the Kigali International Financial Centre, Elevandi, and the National Bank of Rwanda provides a unique opportunity to establish the Inclusive FinTech Forum as a premier global annual event fostering conversations on inclusive and sustainable FinTech in Africa and emerging markets. It also aims to position the forum as a platform for promoting technology and policies that enable FinTech development to become equitable, accessible, and sustainable for everybody in the world.
This partnership underscores a collective ambition to position the Inclusive FinTech Forum as a leading global platform for advancing inclusive and sustainable FinTech solutions. The forum seeks to align African policymakers, regulators, and investors with global FinTech innovators, promoting equitable and accessible FinTech development worldwide.
The Inclusive FinTech Forum is the global platform on Financial Inclusion and FinTech for Good. The Forum aims to bring leaders, investors & FinTechs together to participate in impactful dialogues & meetings that will advance policies & regulations as well as create meaningful long-term connections & partnerships to advance financial inclusion through FinTech for Good. Pre-register your interest to join IFF 2024 here.