The Africa Fintech Network (AFN) is a continental association of financial technology and digital finance leaders and organisations from across Africa. The idea for the network was hatched in January 2018 in Lagos, Nigeria, at a roundtable meeting between regulators and fintech companies from seven countries, and was formally launched in December 2018.
The AFN’s mission is to advance African fintech solutions through information sharing, coordination among national associations, and policy advocacy. With over 40 member countries and over 25 strategic partners, it serves as the voice of the industry, advancing smart policies, consumer protection, and ESG in the marketplace.
AFN launched the Africa Fintech Hub in April 2023, a digital platform aimed at strengthening collaboration among African fintech associations, disseminating knowledge, and increasing the visibility of products created by fintech companies, including women-led businesses, with the support of a $525,000 grant from the African Development Bank.
The association actively organizes the Africa Fintech Festival, a flagship annual event that serves as a meeting place for professionals, startups, investors, and regulators to exchange experiences and discuss trends. AFN also promotes the creation of national associations, internal support frameworks, and the unification of efforts at different levels of the industry.
AFN is focused on the consolidation of knowledge and ideas through thematic committees, where topics such as data protection, digital identity, microinsurance, digital lending, and other important issues for the financial infrastructure of Africa are discussed.
The Association has achieved significant results: expanding membership from 7 to 41 countries, receiving grants and recognition, and strategic partnerships with organizations such as the African Development Bank and Cenfri.
