More than 1 in 4 people in Sub-Saharan Africa lack access to financial services, which limits their ability to overcome persistent and new crises, notably conflict, climate disruptions and migration.

Recent and ongoing crises across the continent and world have deepened the barriers to financial inclusion, as reflected in the 2025 Africa Inclusive Finance Week conference theme, “(Re)focusing on vulnerable people to meet upcoming challenges in inclusive finance”. From refugees without identity papers unable to receive remittances, farmers affected by severe floods or drought unable to access relief funds due to missing paperwork, remote residents unable to access even basic banking services or women and young entrepreneurs refused loans due to lack of collateral or formal employment. The cases are as diverse as they are numerous.

“Inclusive finance is not just about access, it is about empowerment, resilience and opportunity for every African, regardless of circumstance. By learning from global best practices, investing in innovation and putting clients at the centre of everything we do, we can build a more inclusive, resilient and prosperous Africa,” said Alex Mubiru, Director General for the Bank’s East Africa Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery Office, during the opening plenary.

1. Recognition of diverse client needs and serving emerging segments

Women, youth, small businesses and rural clients lie at the heart of Africa’s economy -- and its future. Through gender-focused investments and youth empowerment programmes, and initiatives that strengthen resilience within the MSME sector, inclusive finance can be reinforced as a powerful catalyst for sustainable growth and long-term stability across Africa.

1. Investing in innovative financial solutions to overcome systemic barriers

To support a strong, sustainable, and inclusive finance ecosystem in Africa, the Bank has adopted an innovative multi-dimensional and intentional approach, using blended finance mechanisms and initiatives, such as the Africa Digital Financial Inclusion Facility (ADFI) multi-donor fund. ADFI makes strategic investments in digital solutions that can address systemic barriers to the take-up and usage of financial inclusion, leveraging technology and partnerships.

1. Holistic approach to unlock financial solutions that can meet changing needs

Key financial inclusion priorities for the Bank to tackle challenges stemming from conflict, climate disruptions and migration include strengthening both physical and digital infrastructure to reach rural communities, low-income households and those in fragile regions and building regulatory, digital identification and tiered KYC frameworks that address community needs while supporting broader ecosystem requirements. Together, these can support financial institutions to design responsive solutions and delivery mechanisms capable of reaching those that need them most. Finally, the Bank must work in partnership with the public and private sectors to break down social and knowledge barriers faced by women, youth, MSMEs and those with limited financial literacy.

• Click here to watch the livestream of the Opening Ceremony of the Africa Inclusive Finance Week (SAM 2025).
• Click here for more information on the Africa Digital Financial Inclusion Facility (ADFI)