James Mwangi Calls for Tech-Driven Trade at Africa CEO Forum

James Mwangi Calls for Tech-Driven Trade at Africa CEO Forum

James Mwangi, Group Managing Director and CEO of Equity Group Holdings, has called for stronger partnerships between governments, banks, and technology firms to accelerate Africa’s digital economy.

He spoke during a high-level Tech Breakfast hosted by Equity Group Holdings on the sidelines of the Africa CEO Forum 2026 in Kigali.

The meeting brought together leaders from finance, technology, innovation, and government sectors. Discussions focused on digital transformation and the future of trade across Africa.

“We need an intersection of technology and money,” Dr. Mwangi said.
“We want to enable trade across the continent and create platforms that empower businesses and entrepreneurs to scale.”

Technology and Finance Key to Growth

The breakfast meeting carried the theme “From Fintech to Futuretech: Scaling Africa’s Digital Economy.”

During the discussions, Dr. Mwangi emphasized the need for long-term investment in innovation and digital infrastructure. He said Africa must create systems that expand financial inclusion and support enterprise growth.

Additionally, he urged institutions to collaborate more closely to build shared digital infrastructure across the continent.

“The Africa CEO Forum has been about scaling, and this is an invitation for all of us to scale together,” he said.

He also encouraged young people to embrace technology and use digital platforms to grow businesses and create opportunities.

“We want the youth to leverage technology to develop their enterprises and participate meaningfully in the digital economy,” he added.

Leaders Push for Digital Transformation

The forum also explored how technologies such as blockchain, digital assets, and decentralized systems could improve transparency and access to financial services.

Paula Ingabire, Rwanda’s Minister for ICT and Innovation, said African countries must take ownership of their digital future.

According to her, digital infrastructure such as cross-border banking systems, digital identity platforms, and data governance frameworks will play a major role in economic growth.

“We need to start setting the pace on how technology empowers us and builds value for our people,” she said.

Furthermore, she noted that African countries must intentionally adopt technologies that expand inclusion and opportunity.

“The rails are ours to build and the rules are ours to create,” she added.

Supporting Regional Integration

The forum comes at a time when African governments and businesses are pushing for stronger regional integration and digital connectivity.

Leaders noted that technology-driven financial systems could help reduce trade barriers while improving access to financial services across the continent.

Ultimately, speakers at the event said collaboration, innovation, and digital infrastructure will remain central to Africa’s economic transformation.