NextBillion - An Initiative of the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan

Monday, February 6, 2017

MicroSave (www.MicroSave.net), in partnership with The MasterCard Foundation (MasterCardFdn.org), today, 2 February 2017, launched a new program to develop tailored training courses in digital financial services (DFS) in francophone markets of Africa.

The program is expected to benefit over 250 DFS providers and will focus on the WAEMU region, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Madagascar. Additionally, a DFS knowledge portal in French will be launched as the go-to place for information on digital financial services.

Shifting from cash-based transactions to formal financial services provides economic benefits and stability not only for poor individuals but also their families and the economy. Expanding financial inclusion through DFS cannot occur, however, if ecosystem players lack an understanding of client needs and how to address them through a compelling offer delivered via accessible, trusted channels.

The program announced today will enable francophone markets to access training adapted to the local context. As well, it will provide regional benchmarking data and access to francophone expertise to local financial services enterprises and relevant government bodies.

“We are excited to leverage our experiences and expand our knowledge in francophone markets. That’s where we see the opportunity to increase financial inclusion working with regulators, financial institutions, mobile network operators and third party agent network operators,” states Graham Wright, MicroSave’s Director.