What is SAM?

SAM, formerly known as African Microfinance Week, has evolved into the largest financial inclusion event in Africa, rebranded from 2025 onward as the African Inclusive Finance Week. Held biennially, SAM brings together investors, financial service providers, microfinance institutions (MFIs), SACCOs, researchers, policymakers, innovators, and government representatives to chart the future of inclusive finance across the continent.

https://login.coops.africa/events/4 

When & Where

The next edition, SAM 2025, will be hosted in Nairobi, Kenya, from 13 to 17 October 2025, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC)—a central, accessible venue ideal for facilitating diverse participants.

What’s On the Program?

• Two-Day Conference (14–15 October)
  Themed “Re(focusing) on vulnerable populations to meet upcoming challenges in inclusive finance,” the conference zeroes in on how inclusive finance must adapt amidst economic, climate, and political crises.
  Key discussion themes include:

  • Identifying and responding to evolving customer needs

  • Innovating while adhering to regulation and protecting clients

  • Securing client-centered financing amid shifting funding landscapes 

• Over 20 Training Sessions & Workshops
  Expert-led practical sessions to sharpen skills in areas like digital finance, risk management, customer-centric models, and more.

• Investor Fair (16–17 October)
  A dedicated B2B matchmaking space where banks, impact investors, DFIs, fintechs, pension funds, and SACCOs connect with MFIs, SMEs, and startups for potential investment partnerships. Organized one-on-one meetings are supported by a matchmaking platform.

• Innovators’ Village
  A showcase for cutting-edge innovations in inclusive finance—from fintech solutions to service delivery models, providing visibility and cross-pollination opportunities.

• Networking Events & Gala Dinner
  Informal and structured opportunities to build lasting relationships with stakeholders across the sector.

• Field Visits
  Gain firsthand exposure to Kenya’s vibrant ecosystem of inclusive finance and digital innovation.

Why CFIs, SACCOs, and Financial Co-ops Should Attend

1. Stay Ahead of the Curve

With the changing economic, political, and environmental landscape, CFIs need to be agile. SAM's up-to-date sessions help institutions understand evolving customer needs and regulatory trends—including balancing innovation with protection.

2. Connect with Investors & Policymakers

SAM 2025 bridges the gap between financial co-ops and potential funders. The Investor Fair enables targeted, efficient matchmaking to explore scalable financing—a huge opportunity for SACCOs and Cooperatives seeking growth capital.

3. Showcase Innovations

The Innovators' Village is a prime platform for co-ops to showcase technological or operational innovations—boosting visibility and opening pathways to partnerships, recognition, or even funding.

4. Build Networks & Partnerships

SAM assembles over 1,000 professionals from across Africa—MFIs, regulators, donors, digital innovators, and more—providing fertile ground for collaborations that can transform how CFIs serve communities.

5. Learn Best Practices

Through workshops and sessions delivered by global experts, attendees can sharpen strategies around digital adoption, client protection, resilience building, and operational excellence to better serve vulnerable populations.

6. Experience Kenya’s Dynamic Ecosystem

Kenya is seen as a leader in digital and inclusive finance and a regional hub for innovation. Attending SAM 2025 offers a chance to learn from one of Africa’s most advanced ecosystems and potentially replicate success models in other contexts.

Timing & Practical Info

• Early-Bird Registration is open until 15 August 2025, offering discounted access to all events of the week.

• Ticket Types include options for individuals, microfinance institutions, and investors—each granting full access to conferences, training, the Investor Fair, Innovators' Village, networking, field visits, and the gala dinner.

• Venue Logistics: KICC is centrally located with strong infrastructure. Partner hotels nearby offer preferential rates, and shuttle services are arranged between hotels and venue.

• Travel & Visa: Most nationalities must obtain an eTA (USD 34) before arrival—apply at least a week in advance.

In Summary

SAM 2025 is the can’t-miss event for regional and local CFIs, SACCOs, and financial co-ops:

• Deep-dive into current challenges like client needs, regulation, and financing landscapes

• Explore strategic partnerships and investment opportunities via the Investor Fair

• Gain visibility and network through the Innovators’ Village and gala events

• Access hands-on knowledge through workshops and field visits

• Learn from Kenya’s leadership in inclusive finance and innovation

Register early to benefit from preferential rates and secure your place among Africa’s inclusive finance champions.