MEFMI undertook a mission to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 4 to 11 August 2026, aimed at strengthening engagement with African central banks and exploring opportunities for deeper collaboration with the National Bank of Ethiopia.
The mission had two complementary components: participation in the Association of African Central Banks (AACB) Continental Seminar and consultations with the National Bank of Ethiopia.
The AACB Continental Seminar was held under the theme “Financial Stability and Financial Inclusion in Africa in an Era of Increasing Digital Services and Artificial Intelligence.” It brought together African central banks, policymakers, regulators, and development partners to examine the opportunities and risks associated with digital transformation and the growing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in financial services.
Discussions highlighted the potential of digital financial services, mobile money, instant-payment systems, and AI to expand financial inclusion, while emphasising that innovation must be supported by strong governance, effective regulation, cybersecurity, data protection and resilient digital infrastructure. Participants also underscored the importance of responsible AI governance and regional cooperation in strengthening digital financial ecosystems.
As part of the mission, MEFMI also held consultations with the National Bank of Ethiopia to explore opportunities for institutional collaboration and capacity development. Discussions covered MEFMI’s mandate and programmes, potential support to the Ethiopia Institute of Financial Studies, and areas including macroeconomic management, financial sector regulation and supervision, reserves management, payment systems and digital finance.
The two institutions also discussed Ethiopia’s potential membership in MEFMI, including the membership process, requirements and benefits. The National Bank of Ethiopia indicated that it would undertake internal consultations before deciding.
The consultations identified significant opportunities for future cooperation in capacity development, institutional strengthening, and knowledge sharing. MEFMI and the National Bank of Ethiopia agreed to maintain engagement and explore further opportunities for collaboration.
By Zinhle Mkhari