In a compelling conversation with the COO and Executive Producer BrandWorld Clara Okoro, the transformative power of technology in Africa’s travel and financial sectors took center stage. Drawing from decades of personal experience across four continents, she sheds light on the critical gaps hindering Africa’s tourism potential and the revolutionary role of financial technology in bridging these divides.
Reflecting on her travels during her peak years as a presenter, Clara noted a glaring absence of technological enablers in most African countries.
“Technology is essential to making travel seamless and functional,” she said, emphasizing how the lack of tech infrastructure threatens Africa’s competitiveness in the lucrative global travel industry, worth trillions worldwide.
She highlighted how international tourists, particularly middle-income earners from Europe and America, often view Africa narrowly—as a destination for exclusive safaris and luxury yacht trips—while missing out on the continent’s stunning white beaches, vibrant cultures, and inclusive destinations.
“If we integrate technology, travelers will discover the full spectrum of Africa’s beauty,” Clara said passionately.
A pivotal moment in her journey was witnessing the power of financial technology firsthand. During a month-long trip in southern France three decades ago, she used an ATM card from a particular Bank in Nigeria seamlessly—until political changes disrupted access.
This according to her sparked a realization of how vital accessible fintech solutions are for travelers, whether tourists, business travelers, or medical tourists.
“Without reliable access to cash or digital payment systems abroad, travelers can quickly become stranded,” she noted.
Turning the spotlight back to Africa, Clara acknowledged the significant strides fintech companies have made in recent times, especially amid Nigeria’s recent banking crises. These firms according to her have enabled digital transactions that bypass cash shortages, helping travelers and locals alike navigate economic disruptions.
She cited Kenya’s mobile money revolution as a model of financial inclusion, where even roadside vendors use simple mobile devices to transact, breaking language and literacy barriers.
“Technology has empowered the informal sector at the grassroots level,” Clara explained, underscoring the importance of mobile phones as universal transaction platforms.
Looking ahead, she calls for robust financial literacy campaigns to demystify digital transactions for everyday users.
“We need to make mobile payments as intuitive as making a phone call, so everyone can benefit without feeling overwhelmed,” she urged.
She also emphasized that bridging Africa’s technology gap is not just about infrastructure but also about education and accessibility.
“With the right sensitization and user-friendly solutions, technology can unlock unprecedented opportunities for travel, business, and financial empowerment across the continent,” she affirmed.
Her insights offer a hopeful blueprint for leveraging technology to unlock Africa’s vast potential—both for travelers seeking authentic experiences and for millions of Africans striving for financial inclusion in an increasingly digital world.
