Microfinance Technology Summit 2026 opens in Tanzania with focus on digital innovation and financial inclusion

By:  Kanto Kai Okanta

The 4th edition of the Microfinance Technology Summit (MTS 2026) has opened at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre, bringing together delegates from more than 15 countries across Africa and beyond to explore the future of microfinance and financial inclusion.

The high-level gathering has convened a broad range of stakeholders, including representatives from Tanzania’s Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Tanzania, FSDT Tanzania, and microfinance associations from countries including Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Senegal, Nigeria, and Kenya.

The summit has also attracted key players from the financial services industry alongside fintech providers such as the Fintech Association Rwanda, MVend Limited, Orion Systems, Energize Global Services, WIZER, Eclectics International, Peerless, ADFinance, PCES, and Qlana, highlighting the growing convergence between finance and technology in expanding access to financial services.

Held under the theme “Collaborate; Digitize; Empower: The New Age of Microfinance Innovation,” discussions are centered on strengthening cross-border collaboration among microfinance institutions, leveraging digital solutions to broaden financial access, and developing innovative products to serve underserved communities.

Participants are engaging in knowledge-sharing sessions and partnership discussions aimed at accelerating the adoption of technology-driven solutions across the microfinance sector.

During the summit, the Rwandan delegation presented the country’s progress in financial inclusion, noting that Rwanda has achieved a 96 percent inclusion rate. The delegation attributed this success to strong government leadership, enabling regulatory frameworks, and sustained investment in digital transformation, alongside effective institutional collaboration and the widespread adoption of mobile financial services.

Organizers indicated that the summit is serving as a platform to showcase innovative solutions and foster partnerships that can drive inclusive growth across the continent.

The event is organized by the Association of Microfinance Institutions in Rwanda in partnership with the Bank of Tanzania, SNG Events, the Tanzania Association of Microfinance Institutions, and the Tanzania Microfinance (Non-Deposit Taking) Union.