Ecobank, Microsoft partner in Africa's urban modernization drive

Ecobank Transnational Inc. (ETI) and Microsoft on Monday partnered to step up efforts to modernize and digitally transform major African cities.

The parent company of pan-African banking group Ecobank and Microsoft signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to complement African governments' efforts to modernize major cities through digital solutions, according to a release from ETI headquarters in Lome.

According to the release, the collaboration arose from increasing pressure on African cities due to urbanization and the need to ensure a healthier and safer environment.

The sectors to be modernized include bursary disbursement and school fee collection in the education sector, tax collection from market vendors and small shops, vehicle and driving licensing as well as eVisa and ePassport fee collections.

Ecobank Group CEO Ade Ayeyemi said the main focus of the partnership is to increase financial inclusion in Africa.

Amr Kamel, Microsoft General Manager for West, East, Central Africa and Indian Ocean Islands, said the aim of the company is to help societies achieve digital transformation.

"Any nation properly supported by technology can transform into an intelligent ecosystem, capable of engaging with its citizens, empowering employees and optimizing operations to vastly improve lives," he added.

The partnership will apply in other key areas such as land registration and fee collections in the municipal and hospital services and it supports implementation of a comprehensive e-skills and a digital literacy program. Endit