Dear Guests  It’s my pleasure to welcome you to Hormuud Telecom’s third annual Somali Success Stories event. Somalia is entering a transformative chapter, and fintech is shaping our future. These changes are evident across every city, town and village. In rural areas, mobile money is a game-changer, giving people a secure means to transact and pay their bills, where access to traditional banks is limited.

Apps that facilitate easy credit access is fueling innovation and growth for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Remittances, essential for many families, are now more secure and efficient. Fintech is not just changing how money moves—it’s providing new opportunities for countless Somalis. And so, I believe this year’s theme, “Fintech in Somalia: Challenges, Opportunities & Future Prospects,” could not have come at a more exciting time. Our country is rapidly digitalising, and we stand on the cusp of a cashless economy.

90% of adults use mobile money services. 5G is now available across our towns and cities. Financial inclusion in remote areas has increased. Aid flows through mobile money networks, directly to those who need it. This event is a chance to celebrate our country’s achievements, reflect on our journey, and plan the path forward for our emerging fintech sector.

During this conference, we’ll explore how fintech innovations drive growth, create jobs, and deliver aid efficiently to remote communities. We will also take an in-depth look at our fintech industry, its economic impact, and the regulatory frameworks shaping this growing sector. Events like this have the power to set a direction and define the strategic next steps to propel our nation’s progress. Thank you all for being here for this today. Somalia has come a long way, and it has great potential. Our goal now, is to enlist fintech to accelerate progress.