Financial inclusion remains one of the defining development and market challenges of our time. Globally, approximately 1.4 billion adults remain unbanked, and the gap between digital transactions and formal financial services is particularly pronounced in Africa. While 40% of adults own a mobile money account—surpassing traditional bank account ownership at 38%—only 8.9% have access to formal borrowing. Despite nearly USD 2 trillion in digital payments processed in 2024, millions remain excluded from formal credit and other essential financial services. Structural barriers—including limited digital literacy, fragmented regulation, and constrained access to long-term capital—continue to impede inclusive finance. 

These challenges also present opportunities for collaboration. As Japan advances digital financial transformation and Africa continues to lead in mobile money innovation, both regions have much to gain through knowledge exchange and partnership. 

Against this backdrop, this dialogue event aims to explore how fintech can move financial inclusion beyond digital access toward meaningful economic empowerment. Bringing together fintech innovators, policymakers, development partners, and academia, the discussion will examine how digital finance can expand responsible access to credit, strengthen inclusive financial ecosystems, and create greater economic opportunities for youth, women, MSMEs, and other underserved populations. 

As part of TICAD9 follow-up, the event seeks to identify practical pathways to scale inclusive digital finance solutions, strengthen public–private partnerships, and expand economic participation through fintech innovation.