The 3rd edition of the M-Pesa FinTalks Conference, which brought together experts from the fintech sector and civil society, sparked a discussion on “How Financial Inclusion Can Reshape Labor Market Dynamics in Mozambique,” where speakers advocated for innovative solutions and clearer policies to transform financial access into job and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Jaime Comiche, representative of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), stated that financial inclusion should be seen as a tool rather than a stand-alone solution. “The problem is not just the lack of credit. Often it is deficiencies in skills, technology, and financial literacy that prevent young people and small businesses from accessing opportunities.” According to Comiche, international experience shows the need to bring public policies, banks, fintechs, and social organizations closer together to create products tailored to the real needs of young people.
Carlos Mondle, representing the association Fintech MZ, stressed that the digital financial sector has opened new doors for inclusion. “Today, we have more than 50 fintech companies operating in Mozambique, providing payment and credit access solutions, enabling opportunities for young people, whether as entrepreneurs or as consumers of digital financial services.” However, Mondle pointed to challenges such as excessive regulations, licensing hurdles, and a shortage of specialized professionals in the market.
Meanwhile, Dário Camal, from the Africa Youth for Development Commission, highlighted the need for “real” inclusion adapted to the local context. “It’s not enough to replicate urban models in rural areas. We need to talk to young people, listen to communities, and create financial products that fit their realities,” he argued, also calling for future editions of the conference to be decentralized and held in other provinces of the country as a way to include more young people.
Speakers unanimously acknowledged that the recently approved National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2025–2031 is an important milestone, but emphasized that the way forward also lies in financial education, digital literacy, and simplifying credit access policies. “Financing the tomato or samosa vendor can have as much impact as investing in large projects. This is the real Mozambique,” stressed Camal.
For the panelists, financial inclusion will only have a transformative effect if accompanied by a healthy business environment, policies that encourage entrepreneurship, and an integrated vision that leaves no one behind.
The third edition of M-Pesa FinTalks took place this Thursday (11) in Maputo, featuring debates on innovation, sustainability, and economic development, as well as presentations of solutions contributing to financial inclusion.
Text: Ana Mangana
