The Future of Finance and Trade in Africa

  • Kola Aina, SVP, Strategy & Operations NAM, Mastercard

    Kevin Anderson, Secretary,
    Maryland Department of Commerce

    Omar Arouna, Pres., Global Public Affairs & Engagement, Gunster Strategies Worldwide

    Akol Ayii, Founder & Group Chairman,
    Trinity Group Ltd

    Kara Babrowski, Foreign Service Officer, Africa Bureau, U.S. Dept. of State

    Darryl Barnes, President, Barnes International, Ltd.

    Isaac Barnes, CEO, Unified State Group

    Michael Bennett, Head of Market Solutions & Structured Finance, World Bank

    Vincent Berry, Board Member,
    African Export Import Bank

    Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, U.S. Representative, Florida's 20th Congressional District

    Jim Chung, Associate Vice President for Research, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, GW

    Pape Cissé, Co-Founder & Executive Director, Center for Cyber Diplomacy & Leadership

    Reid W. Click, Associate Professor, International Business and International Affairs, GW

    Andrew Dabalen, Chief Economist,
    Africa Region, World Bank

    Charles H. DeBow, III, President & Chief Executive Officer, National Black Chamber of Commerce

    Ky Dele, Principal,
    Blueprint Global Consulting Group

    Ishmael Nii Amanor Dodoo, Vice President of Africa Development, CO2 Africa

    Ekundayo Walton Gilpin, CEO, Rokel Commercial Bank (SL) Ltd

In an era of rapid technological advancement, the financial technology conference convenes central bank governors from African nations, private bank CEOs, and academics to discuss pressing challenges, policies, and initiatives that have transformed financial systems throughout Africa. The conference aims to delve into emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the innovative solutions that African banks have developed to serve unbanked populations. It will examine key innovations that seek to address geographical barriers in remote areas and the needs of the growing middle class in urban centers across Africa.

Furthermore, the event will highlight financial innovations that foster sustainable growth in regions without traditional credit bureau systems, catering to a young generation lacking tangible assets. Given projections that the African population will represent one-quarter of the global population by 2050, the conference will emphasize the importance of public-private partnerships between central bank leaders, private banking executives, and academic entities.

Together, they will develop robust, innovative responses to demographic shifts, ensuring foundational finance policies that tackle pressing economic, social, and environmental issues. The convening will provide attendees with fresh perspectives and valuable ideas, where innovative solutions can be nurtured from students, professionals, and seasoned experts, all of whom will help drive Africa’s future.

Projects & Initiatives