By Naomi Jeremiah

African fintech companies are expected to shift from chasing foreign funding to becoming global investment hubs in 2026, according to the African Fintech Summit (AFTS).

Managing Director of AFTS, Zekarias Amsalu, said the continent’s fintech ecosystem is entering a new phase focused on profitability, sustainability, and African-led innovation. He noted that Africa will increasingly export homegrown financial solutions to the world, powered by local founders, capital, and talent.

Amsalu said 2025 marked a turning point, with stronger regulation, five IPOs on local exchanges including two fintechs and over $3 billion raised by African startups, a 33% year-on-year increase.

He cited Flutterwave’s recent acquisition of open-banking firm Mono as early evidence of this shift, saying the deal strengthens Africa’s payment infrastructure and supports the growth of open banking across the continent.

Looking ahead, Amsalu said telecom companies are expected to enter licensed banking in 2026, while fintech startups seek microfinance licences to expand control. He also predicted increased acquisitions, partnerships, and renewed interest from global players such as PayPal, driven by Africa’s growing digital population and expanding global workforce.

According to him, Africa is no longer just a beneficiary of global growth but is fast becoming a driver of global finance and digital innovation.

Source: AllAfrica