TechConnect 4.0: Driving innovation, inclusion and collaboration for Africa’s financial future

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, microfinance banks (MFBs), fintechs and other financial institutions (OFIs) face challenges that hinder their ability to drive financial inclusion and economic growth.

From challenges adapting to digital transformation to navigating regulatory complexity, these institutions often lack access to the scalable technology, technical expertise, and secure infrastructure needed to meet the growing demands of a tech-savvy customer base.

However, these challenges present enormous opportunities for innovation, offering the chance to redefine traditional financial models and create lasting impacts on both businesses and communities.

This is the driving force behind Interswitch’s TechConnect series, a dynamic platform designed to bridge critical gaps in digital adoption and reshape Nigeria’s financial ecosystem through innovation, collaboration and actionable strategies.

Designed as a catalyst for change, the series highlighted how technology and innovation are shaping Nigeria’s financial ecosystem. The series spanned five cities including Enugu, Asaba, Abuja, Ibadan and Lagos, highlighting the role of technology as both an enabler and driver of sustainable growth and inclusion.

Each event was tailored to the unique economic dynamics of its region, and TechConnect 4.0 delivered a clear roadmap for transforming financial services through collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to digital inclusion.

Regional highlights: Insights from the TechConnect series

The trip started in Enugu with the topic “Unlocking growth opportunities through technology and innovation.” Discussions focused on how technology enables MFBs to scale operations, improve customer experience and advance financial inclusion. Panelists during a session titled: “The future of microfinance – changing microfinance through digitalization” Shared strategies for leveraging digital tools, emphasizing the need for partnerships between the public and private sectors to drive a robust digital economy.

In Asaba, the focus shifted to operational efficiency and business growth under the theme “The Future of Microfinance – Digitalization, Challenges and Growth Opportunities.”

Panelists explored the intersection between microfinance and fintech, demonstrating how strategic collaborations can address challenges such as resource constraints and changing customer needs. Practical discussions on the topic, “Building Financial Resilience: The Intersection of Microfinance, Fintech and Business Development” highlighted the value of collaboration and digital adoption and offered actionable insights for stakeholders seeking to promote resilience and prosperity.

Held in Abuja, the country’s capital, the session discussed the importance of integrating cutting-edge technologies such as AI, data analytics and cybersecurity to develop secure, scalable solutions. Topic oriented “Unlock growth opportunities through technology and innovation” Panelists addressed pressing topics such as fraud prevention and compliance. A recurring focus on partnerships between banks, fintechs and OFIs strengthened the collective responsibility required to modernize Nigeria’s financial sector.

The penultimate stop in Ibadan dealt with the topic: “Digital transformation as a growth strategy: Opportunities for MFBs, Fintechs and OFIs.” Discussions highlighted emerging technologies such as blockchain, AI and predictive analytics, highlighting their potential to provide tailored solutions to underserved communities. The sessions also emphasized the importance of trust, strategic partnerships and innovation in building a secure and resilient financial ecosystem.

The finale in Lagos marked the highlight of the TechConnect series. Akeem Lawal, Managing Director, Payment Processing and Switching (Interswitch Purepay), delivered a keynote address titled “Closing gaps in Africa’s diverse markets: using payments as a growth engine for companies,” Reaffirming the organization’s commitment to financial inclusion.

Panel discussions at the grand finale, thematic “Managing the Future of Financial Services: Integrating Compliance, Technology and Collaboration to Fight Fraud and Drive Growth.” And “Building Financial Resilience: The Intersection of Commercial and Microfinance Banks, Fintechs and OFIs to Drive Growth in the Financial Services Sector,” The focus is on leveraging compliance, technology and collaborative efforts to address fraud challenges while unlocking new growth opportunities. The sessions also discussed strategies to promote resilience and growth through synergies between financial institutions and fintechs.

The Interswitch TechConnect 4.0 series has proven that true innovation lies not only in the generation of ideas, but in their practical implementation and measurable impact. By fostering collaboration, leveraging technology and addressing real-world challenges, Interswitch has cemented its position as a transformative force in the African financial services sector.

As the curtain falls on TechConnect 4.0, one thing remains undeniable: Interswitch is a leader in promoting financial inclusion and innovation. With his unwavering commitment to innovation, the vision of a digitally empowered Africa is steadily transforming into reality.