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# Safaricom and Starlink Partnership: A Game-Changer for Digital Financial Infrastructure

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The proposed partnership between Safaricom, the telecommunications giant behind M-Pesa, and Starlink represents a potentially transformative development for Kenya's digital ecosystem, with significant implications for financial technology platforms like Afrecash.

"This collaboration could fundamentally reshape our digital financial services landscape," says Dr. Bery Odhiambo, Co-Founder and CFO of Positiviti Lending. "By combining Safaricom's robust mobile money infrastructure with Starlink's satellite internet technology, we're looking at unprecedented connectivity that could dramatically expand financial inclusion."

The partnership promises to address critical infrastructure challenges, particularly in rural and underserved regions. Starlink's satellite internet technology could provide reliable connectivity in areas traditionally excluded from digital financial services, potentially expanding the reach of mobile lending platforms like Afrecash.

For micro-loan applications, this partnership represents a significant opportunity. Enhanced internet connectivity means more reliable digital transactions, reduced operational risks, and the ability to serve previously unreachable customer segments. The increased technological reliability could lower transaction costs and improve risk assessment capabilities for financial technology platforms.

Dr. Odhiambo emphasizes that this is more than a technological upgrade—it's a potential paradigm shift in financial service delivery. "We're not just talking about better internet," he notes. "We're discussing a fundamental transformation in how financial services can be delivered to underserved communities."

MICROFINANCE NEWS

Positiviti's Kenya Microloan Platform Shows Resilience Amid 2024 Challenges

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In a year marked by multiple challenges, Positiviti Lending's microloan platform in Kenya has demonstrated remarkable resilience, continuing to serve local entrepreneurs and communities while maintaining strong operational performance.

"Our commitment to financial inclusion in Kenya remains unwavering," says Micah Asay, CEO of Positiviti Lending. "The platform's robust performance through this year's challenges proves that our model isn't just working—it's thriving even under pressure."

The platform faced three significant external challenges in 2024: severe flooding in April that affected several regions, political unrest in June, and the now famous Crowdstrike incident that interrupted global markets in July. Despite these obstacles, the program maintained its core operations and continued supporting local businesses.

Dr. Bery Odhiambo, Co-Founder and CFO, attributes this resilience to the platform's adaptable infrastructure and strong community relationships. "What we've built isn't just a lending platform—it's a community-centered financial ecosystem," explains Dr. Odhiambo. "When the floods hit in April, our digital infrastructure allowed us to continue operations even in affected areas. Our local teams quickly adapted, ensuring borrowers received the support they needed during the recovery period."

The platform's success stems from its innovative approach to microfinance, combining digital technology with deep local market understanding. This hybrid model proved particularly valuable during June's political tensions, allowing Positiviti to maintain services while ensuring the safety of both staff and clients.

"The key to our success has been our ability to pivot quickly while maintaining our core mission," notes Asay. "Whether it's natural disasters, political challenges, or technical issues, our team has consistently found ways to keep capital flowing to the entrepreneurs who need it most."

Looking ahead, Positiviti Lending plans to expand its reach within Kenya, implementing lessons learned from this year's challenges to build an even more resilient platform. Dr. Odhiambo concludes, "These challenges have ultimately made us stronger. We've enhanced our risk management protocols, strengthened our community bonds, and proven that our model can withstand significant external pressures."

The platform's performance through these challenges underscores the importance of flexible, technology-driven approaches in modern microfinance, setting a new standard for resilience in the sector.

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Financial Inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa—Overview

QUICK SUMMARIZATION

Overview

Sub-Saharan Africa has made significant strides in financial inclusion over the past decade, largely driven by the rapid adoption of mobile money accounts. Currently, 49% of adults in the region own an account, more than double the rate since 2011. However, disparities exist across different economies and demographic groups, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for microfinance.

Key Findings:

1. Account Ownership Growth:

• Ownership has increased significantly, with countries like Mauritius (91%) and Kenya (79%) showing high rates, while South Sudan lags at 6%.

• Nine of 36 economies surveyed from 2017-2022 experienced double-digit growth, indicating the vital role of mobile money in driving access.

2. Mobile Money's Impact:

• Mobile money has transformed financial landscapes, especially in Kenya, where 58% had mobile accounts by 2014.

• In South Africa, while mobile adoption is lower, it complements existing high bank account ownership.

3. Gender and Income Gaps:

• The gender gap in account ownership is significant, at 12 percentage points—twice the developing economy average. Progress has been made in countries like Mali and South Africa, but challenges persist in Kenya and Senegal.

• Income disparities are also pronounced, with wealthier adults more likely to have accounts, emphasizing the need for targeted financial products.

4. Barriers to Access:

• Common obstacles include lack of funds, insufficient documentation, and physical distance to financial institutions. Technology-enabled solutions could address these barriers effectively.

5. Increasing Use of Accounts:

• Despite lower account ownership compared to other developing regions, usage rates for receiving payments and saving are higher in Sub-Saharan Africa.

• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital payments, with significant growth in digital merchant and utility payments.

6. Opportunities for Expansion:

• Payment Digitalization: A focus on digitalizing cash payments, especially in the agricultural sector, could significantly enhance financial inclusion.

• Access to Documentation: Providing digital IDs and facilitating account openings can bridge the gap for unbanked adults.

Conclusion

The landscape for financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa is evolving rapidly, with significant opportunities for institutions like Positiviti to expand their reach. By addressing existing barriers and leveraging digital solutions, microlenders can tap into a growing market while contributing to the economic empowerment of underserved populations. Collaborative efforts are essential to create tailored financial products that meet the diverse needs of these communities.

Source: https://www.worldbank.org

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36% Annual returns while helping others is a Win-Win!

I am more than pleased with the returns I have received in the last 18 months. Every month, I get 3% reported in my Positiviti Account, and each month, I know that my participation is helping thousands of Small and Micro businesses in Kenya get access to capital to build up their businesses. Earning 36% annual returns while helping others is a true win-win investment. What is better is we did a friends and family account so even my kids earn 36% annual returns as part of our account. If you are not earning 36% annually consider participating in Positiviti Lending. You will be as happy as I am. ~ Dan

Amazing microlending platform with high returns

Amazing microlending platform with high returns. The staff is incredibly helpful. I have seen positive returns of 3% month consistently on my money since enrolling in the Family and Friends plan. Positiviti is the real deal. I continue to recommend them to everyone I know. Very happy with the service. ~ John

I went from -4% to 12% by moving it to Positiviti

I was able to take my money out of my 401K from the company I am currently working for, because I was only making -4%. I then put it into Positiviti through Oasis Retirement trust and now I am making 12%. That's a net gain of 16%. Wow, soon I will be making 36% and I can speed up my retirement date. ~ Jan

GREAT program

GREAT program, best interest returns and the best of all it to support people in needs all over the world. ~ Livier

Positiviti is a solid company

Positiviti is a solid company in its development and growth which gives me confidence and peace of mind.

I am proud and grateful knowing with reassurance that the company is:

1- Helping families in Africa.

2-helping families here in the US.
3-The risk is minimized because my money is distributed in small amongs into thousands of people who are contributing to positiviti.

Positiviti has been a very serious company, responsible with my money and my profits. I feel very calm seeing that the world economy is quite unstable and I found this stability with Positiviti, and I am very grateful for all your work. May God continue to guiding this leaders. ~ Elssy

DISCLAIMER: Positiviti Lending is an International Peer-to-Peer Micro Lending Program. Participation in Positiviti Lending is subject to our terms and conditions. Lender Members are advised to read and understand before engaging with our program. Positiviti is a sponsored program within World Workforce International Inc., a 501(c)(5) nonprofit organization's framework. Positiviti Lending is not a bank, is not FDIC insured, and does not guarantee returns. While the program aims to facilitate profitable lending, potential principal loss can occur due to inherent risks. Positiviti Lending is not an insurance program and shall not be liable for any claims, damages, or losses arising from misconceptions regarding the nature of the program. Participation in Positiviti Lending signifies acceptance of these terms and conditions.

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