Rwanda unveils fintech centre to boost Africa ecosystem

by PHYLLIS BIRORI
KIGALI — RWANDA is positioning itself as a premier launchpad for local and global innovators seeking to scale across Africa following the launch of the Rwanda FinTech Centre.

A joint initiative of the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology and Innovation, the ICT Chamber, Kigali International Financial Centre, Rwanda FinTech Association and Luxembourg Cooperation, the centre will serve as a one-stop hub to coordinate and accelerate the country’s fintech ecosystem.

The centre was launched at the conclusion of the three-day Inclusive FinTech Forum (IFF) on Thursday.

In a related development the same day in Kigali, the country also unveiled Innovate Rwanda, a national digital gateway connecting startups, investors, innovation hubs and ecosystem partners to accelerate collaboration and scalable solutions for Rwanda and the continent.

“The Rwanda FinTech Centre will play a critical role in advancing our ambition to build a vibrant digital economy and strengthen Rwanda’s position as a hub for innovation in Africa,” said Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation.

Among the expected outcomes, the centre will help expand digital banking, insurance and investment services, bridge the gap between policy ambitions and practical market solutions and drive implementation of Rwanda’s FinTech Strategy (2024–2029).

Rwanda’s fintech ecosystem already comprises more than 100 companies, mainly operating in payments and lending.

Ingabire noted that financial inclusion in the country has already surpassed 90 percent.

The next priority is to ensure fintech innovation can scale and deliver solutions that address the needs of businesses and communities.

Ingabire expressed hope that the launch would move the sector toward real implementation and impact.

“We move from pilots in our fintech ecosystem to scalable initiatives, and from individual efforts to coordinated ecosystem growth,” she said.

Speaking on Innovate Rwanda, Ingabire said: “It will provide innovators and partners with an environment to experiment, collaborate and develop solutions that address real challenges across digital finance, public services and cross-border trade.”

The IFF convenes leaders, investors and fintech firms to advance policies and regulations that promote financial inclusion.

— CAJ News