The Forum brought together key stakeholders across the financial ecosystem to chart a course toward broader access, inclusion, and growth through digital payments.

The event, which held at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, convened senior representatives from both the public and private sectors, including regulators, banks, fintechs, mobile money operators, and development organisations, for a day of high-level dialogue and engagement.

Building on the success of the inaugural edition, this year’s theme, “Access, Inclusion and Growth – Deepening Digital Payments in Sierra Leone,” reflected a shared commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient financial system through collaboration and innovation.

Delivering the keynote address titled “Building on Progress: Expanding Access, Driving Inclusion, and Fueling Growth for National Prosperity,” Akeem Lawal, managing director, Payment Processing and Switching (Interswitch Purepay), reinforced the company’s commitment to co-creating value in the markets it serves.

“Financial inclusion goes beyond launching more apps or issuing more cards, it’s about solving real problems with solutions that are scalable, secure, and grounded in local realities. Since the first edition of the Fintech Forum, Sierra Leone has made clear progress, with strong mobile penetration and a forward-looking Central Bank. What’s needed now is execution that is sustained, coordinated, and responsive to the realities on the ground.

By applying lessons from multiple African markets and tailoring them to local needs, Interswitch is committed to supporting Sierra Leone’s digital transformation. That means enabling agency networks that function effectively, driving merchant acceptance to reduce cash reliance, and working closely with regulators to co-create policy that drives real progress and inclusive growth,” Lawal said.

In his remarks, Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, governor, Bank of Sierra Leone, commended Interswitch’s continued investment in the country’s digital transformation journey.

He highlighted the Central Bank’s commitment to driving regulatory innovation and building an inclusive ecosystem.

He said,

“The Bank of Sierra Leone recognises the critical role of digital financial services in building a more inclusive and resilient economy. Events like the Sierra Leone Fintech Forum, in collaboration  with innovators like Interswitch, help accelerate the adoption of technologies that bring more Sierra Leoneans into the formal financial system. We remain committed to creating an enabling regulatory environment that fosters innovation while ensuring consumer protection and financial stability.”

A key highlight of the forum was the live demonstration of Interswitch’s Agency Banking solutions, designed to bridge the gap between traditional banking infrastructure and underserved and remote communities.

Attendees experienced firsthand how the platform supports secure, efficient, and accessible financial transactions across Sierra Leone through a decentralised network of agents.

The event featured a series of insightful panel discussions, interactive Question & Answer sessions, and networking opportunities, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange across the ecosystem.

As mobile connectivity expands and Sierra Leone’s digital agenda accelerates, the forum provided a timely platform to align actors, surface practical solutions, and build collective momentum toward a more inclusive financial system.

The Sierra Leone Fintech Forum reaffirmed Interswitch’s role as a catalyst for digital finance transformation in the region and across the continent.

As the financial landscape continues to evolve, the company remains committed to supporting the country’s financial inclusion goals through innovation, shared infrastructure, and strategic partnerships that power a more inclusive, digital and future-ready economy.

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The groundbreaking event which took place on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel, Freetown, Sierra Leone, brought together key stakeholders, industry experts, and innovators to unpack the potential and future of financial technology in Sierra Leone.

The Sierra Leone Fintech Forum served as a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange within the burgeoning fintech ecosystem. The event aimed to foster a deeper understanding of the transformative power of fintech and its role in shaping Sierra Leone’s economic landscape.

Speaking at the event, Akeem Lawal, the Managing Director, Payment Processing and Switching (Interswitch Purepay), highlighted the importance of fintech in driving innovation and growth in the African economy.

He said, “Interswitch is proud to have played a pivotal role in bringing together the brightest minds in the fintech space. The forum reflects our commitment to driving innovation and facilitating the digital transformation of financial services in Sierra Leone.”

The event featured panel sessions where renowned speakers and thought leaders from the fintech industry shared valuable insights into the latest trends, emerging technologies, and transformative opportunities in Sierra Leone, as meaningful connections were forged between industry players, fostering collaboration and partnership opportunities.

Commenting on the essence of the forum, Jonah Adams, MD, Digital Infrastructure & Managed Services (Interswitch Systegra), said:

“Fintech has the potential to revolutionize the way financial services are delivered in Sierra Leone. By embracing innovation, Sierra Leone can create a more inclusive and prosperous financial system, and with collaborations like the Interswitch Fintech Forum, Interswitch is committed to creating an enabling environment for fintech to thrive in Sierra Leone.”

Attendees had the chance to engage in constructive conversations and explore potential synergies and gained a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory framework and its implications for the growth of the fintech sector.

Fintech is playing a critical role in transforming the way people access and use financial services in Africa. By providing innovative financial solutions that are more accessible, affordable, and convenient, Interswitch is helping to drive financial inclusion and economic growth across Africa.

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