Highlights from FINCON 2024: DDFinance’s Role in Advancing Financial Inclusion

The Financial Inclusion Conference & Investor Expo 2024, held on September 25th and 26th in Nairobi, Kenya, concluded after two days of insightful discussions and networking. Organized by the Association of Microfinance Institutions – Kenya (AMFI-K), the event brought together leading players from the microfinance sector to address the industry’s evolving needs and explore opportunities for collaboration. Attendees included policymakers, financial institutions, and innovators committed to advancing financial inclusion in Kenya.

DDFinance’s CEO, Jan Martin Hunderi, participated actively in the conference, sharing his perspectives on the role of technology and data in revolutionizing microinsurance, especially for underserved communities.

Jan Martin Hunderi, CEO of DDFinance, participating in a panel discussion on Technology, Digitization, Research and Livelihoods & Impact.

DDFinance’s Vision for Financial Inclusion

During the speaking sessions, Mr. Hunderi emphasized DDFinance’s mission to transform Kenya’s informal economy by leveraging data-driven strategies to make microinsurance more accessible and affordable. By digitizing claims data and using real-time analytics, DDFinance has been able to streamline its operations, lower costs, and provide tailored solutions to vulnerable populations.

“We’ve digitized claims data harvesting and analysis, anchoring decisions on data,” Mr. Hunderi shared. “This innovation has allowed us to reduce costs, which in turn makes microinsurance more affordable for the people who need it most.”

CEOs, CFOs, dignitaries, and other stakeholders from the microfinance sector were seated, discussing technology, partnerships, and data-driven strategies for financial inclusion.

Partnerships and Technology: The Future of Financial Services

Throughout the two-day event, several key themes emerged, reinforcing the need for innovation and collaboration across the financial sector. One of the major points of discussion was partnership synergy. By collaborating and sharing best practices, institutions can create a stronger and more resilient financial ecosystem that benefits everyone. DDFinance is actively seeking such partnerships to further its mission of financial inclusion.

Jan Martin Hunderi, CEO of DDFinance, engaging with the AMFI board, which consists of CEOs from various financial institutions and members of the investor community

Another focal point of the event was the importance of technology in banking. Speakers agreed that leveraging technology is crucial for expanding access to financial services, particularly in underserved areas. DDFinance is already embracing this trend, using digital tools to simplify processes and improve customer experiences.

In addition to technology, green financing for climate action was highlighted as a key area for the future of financial services. Sustainable growth can only be achieved if financial institutions incorporate environmentally conscious strategies into their products and services. DDFinance remains committed to exploring climate-smart financing solutions as part of its broader mission.

Enhancing Financial Inclusion Through Microinsurance Regulations and Collaboration

Joyce Kabura, Principal Officer of DDFinance, discussed microinsurance regulations, emphasizing the importance of risk management for sustainability and income generation for microfinance institutions (MFIs). She highlighted how the 2020 regulations enhance access for low-income groups, focusing on affordability and clear claims processes. However, the low penetration of microinsurance remains a challenge, with only 1% of the informal sector insured. DDFinance aims to bridge this gap and will hold a roundtable on October 4th to explore microinsurance opportunities and improve financial inclusion.
DDFinance Kenya Ltd’s Principal Officer, Joyce Kabura, participating in a panel discussion on bridging the regulatory gap for sustainable inclusion.

Data-Driven Finance and Microinsurance

One of the most significant takeaways from FINCON 2024 was the role of data-driven finance in improving financial inclusion. Financial institutions that leverage data can better assess risk, tailor their products to meet the needs of underserved communities, and optimize the allocation of resources.

Present was Ambassador Mr. Gunnar Andreas Holm from the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Nairobi.

DDFinance is leading the charge in this area, having digitized its claims data to enhance microinsurance offerings. By making informed decisions based on real-time data, DDFinance is able to offer more affordable insurance solutions to vulnerable populations, contributing to the broader goal of financial inclusion.

Conclusion: Reflecting on FINCON 2024

As the event came to a close, it was clear that FINCON 2024 had sparked critical conversations about the future of financial services in Kenya. DDFinance’s contributions to the discussions on technology, partnerships, and data-driven finance underscored its commitment to reshaping the microinsurance landscape.

Looking ahead, DDFinance remains focused on expanding its impact through innovative solutions and collaborations, ensuring that more Kenyans have access to the financial tools they need to thrive.

A photo of our CEO networking with other industry players.

Stay tuned for more updates as DDFinance continues to lead the charge in financial inclusion.

A photo capturing DDFinance Kenya employees who participated in the conference.