'African can expand access to financial security via eCommerce' - ITREALMS

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The Regional General Manager, QNET Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Biram Fall, has said that with over 350 million unbanked adults, there is a significant potential of financial inclusion and digital solutions for Africa, and a vast opportunity to expand access to financial security, event through electronic commerce (eCommerce).

Speaking as a lead presenter at the recent Africa Tech Alliance Forum (AfriTECH 4.0) held in Lagos, Fall stated that financial inclusion transforms lives by providing essential financial tools like savings accounts, credit, and insurance, which foster economic independence.
He referenced the International Monetary Fund (IMF) which highlights the role of financial services in strengthening economic resilience and reducing inequality, making them crucial for African socio-economic progress.

Speaking on the theme, “Harnessing Fintech Solutions for Financial Inclusion & eCommerce Growth,” Fall highlighted Africa’s opportunity to empower the 350 million unbanked adults by providing access to essential financial services.

“The demand for financial inclusion aligns with a projected $75 billion e-commerce market in Africa by 2025, driven by rising internet access and smartphone adoption. However, limited banking infrastructure and high cash dependency hinder digital engagement,” he said.

Fall who made reference to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), noted that digital payments can unlock significant revenue for small businesses and expand e-commerce by making digital platforms more accessible and trusted.

“Digital payment solutions like mobile wallets simplify transactions and build trust in digital platforms. The African Development Bank recognizes that increased accessibility of financial products boosts consumer confidence in digital payments and enhances participation in e-commerce,” Fall said.

He disclosed that QNET’s initiatives, such as its “Fit Green” financial literacy programme, have trained over 1,500 young Nigerians, promoting financial self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship through an e-commerce-driven direct-selling model active in over 100 countries.

“Our e-commerce driven direct-selling model provides income-generating opportunities in over 100 countries, promoting entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency in low-income regions. True progress requires collaboration.

The QNET regional manager emphasized the need for cross-sector partnerships to bridge Africa's infrastructure gaps, expand digital financial services, and build an inclusive financial landscape.

QNET’s mission, according to Fall, is to use technology and partnerships to make financial inclusion and e-commerce key pillars of progress across Africa, empowering individuals and fostering economic growth for underserved populations.