The African Inclusive Finance Week (SAM) 2025 was officially launched in Kenya at a high-level media launch at The Nairobi Serena on March 21st, 2025. The event marked the beginning of a new chapter for inclusive finance in Africa, as Kenya gears up to host the continent’s largest financial inclusion event for the very first time, in October from 13th – 17th at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).
Hosted by the Association of Microfinance Institutions Kenya (AMFI-K), the official announcement and media launch brought together key stakeholders from across the financial service sector, the government, development finance institutions (DFIs), and mainstream media houses. The session provided an overview of SAM’s objectives, structure, and the immense value it brings to the African financial inclusion landscape. In a historic move, Kenya will join the group of host nations that have already embraced the SAM platform, including Rwanda, Togo, Senegal, Tanzania, and Ethiopia.
Strategically located and with established infrastructure, Kenya has a proven track record and commitment to inclusive finance. It is one of Africa’s fastest growing and market-based economy and is regarded as the economic, commercial, financial, ICT, and logistics hub of East Africa, boasting of a sustained, dynamic, and diverse economy. It is well positioned relative to the region and a definite delight to the conference delegates as they interact with and learn from the robust innovation ecosystem. The impetus of Kenya’s innovation ecosystem is growing with a promising future, as evidenced by an increasing number of hubs and talented entrepreneurs.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Association of Microfinance Institutions Kenya (AMFI-K) said, “The African Inclusive Finance Week is a beacon of innovation, collaboration, and opportunity. Kenya has long been a leader in mobile money and financial innovation, making it a fitting host for SAM 2025. This event will not only strengthen local institutions but also amplify the voices of Africa’s underserved populations.”
Chairman’s Speech delivered by Mr Curtis Musembi, Investment Manager, East and South Africa Region
In her official remarks, Ms Laura Foschi, Executive Director of ADA (Appui au Développement Autonome), the organizers of SAM – African Inclusive Finance Week, gave a comprehensive overview on the structure, impact, and ambitions of SAM 2025.
She congratulated Kenya for winning the bid to host SAM 2025 by demonstrating the ability and suitability to host the conference. In her words, “SAM is more than just an event – it is a platform where innovation meets implementation. From the Innovators’ Village to the Investor Fair, the event is designed to create real impact on the ground. We are delighted that the African Inclusive Finance Week- SAM 2025 will be hosted in Nairobi, Kenya, from October 13th to 17th, 2025. We are happy to be part of this historical moment, and I take this opportunity to welcome Africa and the world to Nairobi, Kenya.”
The event was graced by Honorable Susan Mangeni, Permanent Secretary of Micro Small and Medium Enterprise Development Ministry. In her remarks, Honorable Mangeni expressed her gratitude on behalf of the government of Kenya for ADA’s consideration of Kenya to host this important event.
“Hosting SAM will not only showcase the unique capabilities and rich resources, the warmth and hospitality of the Kenyan people but also the strategic goals of the government of Kenya to promote Financial Inclusion. Kenyan government support for private sector development cannot be over-stated, fostering global partnerships and enhancing Kenya’s reputation as a hub for innovative and transformative financial service destination. Inclusive finance is at the heart of the Kenyan government’s National development, and we are most honored to host such a major event. We look forward to welcoming such a diverse and international group of experts to Nairobi, Kenya. We welcome our brothers and sisters from Africa and across the world to Nairobi.”
The SAM 2025 Media Launch successfully set the stage for months of anticipation and preparation. As Kenya prepares to welcome the continent and beyond, the launch reaffirmed SAM’s role as a dynamic catalyst for inclusive finance and economic justice. Stakeholders are now looking forward to a collaborative and impactful SAM 2025, which promises to be a milestone moment for financial inclusion on the African continent.
SAM is a biennial event co-organized by ADA and MAIN (Microfinance African Institutions Network) with support from the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Luxembourg. It aims to foster partnerships and explore innovative approaches to tackling financial exclusion across Africa.
The details of SAM 2025 can be accessed on www.sam.africa, or you can also reach us on 0737409059 for engagement opportunities.
