The Central Bank of the Democratic Republic of Congo (BCC) has entered discussions with mobile telecommunications industry body GSMA to explore partnerships aimed at modernising the country’s financial sector, officials said.
Last week, BCC Governor André Wameso met with GSMA representatives to examine collaborative opportunities to expand digital connectivity across the country and strengthen financial inclusion, a central goal of the central bank’s strategy to upgrade financial infrastructure.
The talks focused on several priority areas, including digitalisation of banking services, mobile money expansion, and upgrading financial networks to reach underserved and remote populations. Both sides underscored the importance of leveraging technology to improve access to financial services, enhance transparency, and promote economic development in the DRC.
“Strengthening digital financial infrastructure is essential for fostering inclusion and integrating more citizens into the formal economy,” Wameso said in a statement released by the BCC. He highlighted the central bank’s commitment to adopting innovative solutions that facilitate secure, efficient, and accessible financial transactions nationwide.
GSMA, which represents the interests of mobile operators and mobile ecosystem players globally, emphasised the potential of mobile technology to accelerate financial inclusion in developing countries. The organisation noted that partnerships with central banks can support regulatory frameworks, drive digital payments adoption, and enable broader access to banking and credit services.
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The DRC, with a population of over 100 million, faces significant challenges in financial inclusion. A large proportion of the population remains unbanked or underbanked, particularly in rural and conflict-affected regions. Analysts say that mobile-based financial services have already begun to fill some of these gaps, but scaling infrastructure and regulatory support remains a priority.
Collaboration with GSMA could facilitate the deployment of innovative digital tools, including mobile wallets, online payment platforms, and fintech solutions that reduce reliance on cash and promote financial resilience. Improved digital infrastructure is also expected to support government payment systems, taxation, and remittance flows, enhancing overall economic efficiency.
The discussions align with broader regional trends in Sub-Saharan Africa, where central banks are increasingly partnering with technology providers to modernise payment systems, combat fraud, and expand financial literacy. Experts say such initiatives are crucial for accelerating economic growth, supporting small and medium enterprises, and increasing access to credit for underserved communities.
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No formal agreements were announced following the meeting, but both parties signalled intent to continue engagement and explore concrete partnership models. The BCC has previously emphasised a long-term vision for digital transformation, including plans to implement modern payment systems, strengthen anti-money laundering measures, and integrate new technologies to enhance the efficiency of the financial sector.
Financial analysts in Kinshasa welcomed the discussions, noting that enhanced digital connectivity and financial innovation could significantly reduce transaction costs, increase transparency, and bring millions of Congolese into the formal economy.
As the DRC continues to expand its economic infrastructure, initiatives linking central banks and technology organisations are seen as pivotal in unlocking growth opportunities, boosting investment, and promoting inclusive financial development.
The BCC-GSMA engagement represents a step toward positioning the DRC at the forefront of digital financial innovation in Central Africa, potentially serving as a model for neighbouring countries seeking to modernise their banking and payment systems.
