Africa Financial Industry Summit (AFIS 2026) Launches in Luanda to Build a Unified Financial Market and Drive Digital Innovation
The 6th edition of the Africa Financial Industry Summit (AFIS 2026) kicked off today, Tuesday, in Luanda, Angola, featuring broad participation from financial sector leaders across the continent. In his opening address, Amir Ben Yahmed, CEO of Jeune Afrique Media Group, emphasized that the summit aims to integrate Anglophone, Francophone, and Lusophone linguistic and economic blocs to achieve a unified African financial market, while accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence and digital innovation.
Directing Capital to Support the Real Economy
Ben Yahmed explained that this year’s summit theme—“Making Capital Count: Unlocking Growth Potential Through African Finance”—addresses a core paradox: despite the growth and strength of Africa’s financial sector over the past two decades, it has yet to channel adequate funding into the real economy. He noted that the primary challenge today is maximizing the actual development impact of available liquidity within the continent.
A New Financial Architecture for Continental Development
The CEO of Jeune Afrique highlighted an upcoming initiative by Sidi Ould Tah, President of the African Development Bank Group, presenting a strategic vision to establish a "new African financial architecture." This step aims to reshape the future of continental finance and empower it as a key engine for inclusive growth.
AI and Fintech: Lessons from the Brazilian Experience
Ben Yahmed stressed the urgency of adapting to next-generation financial services, citing the success of Brazil’s digital bank Nubank, which grew into the country's second-largest financial institution in less than 15 years. He affirmed that such models demonstrate the power of financial technology and AI to transform emerging markets.
Angola: A Hub for Economic Transformation and Regional Integration
Regarding the choice of Angola to host the event, Ben Yahmed noted that it reflects the country's rapid economic momentum and measurable macroeconomic improvements. This includes Angola's ambitious strategy for economic diversification and major infrastructure initiatives, spearheaded by the Lobito Corridor connecting Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia.