6th Accra Tech Salon to discuss the impact of Mobile Money and Technology in Ghana

Accra - On Thursday December 10, Penplusbytes will host the 6th Accra Technology Salon at the New Media Hub, Osu, on the topic: "Mobile Money and Technology". It is aimed at widening awareness about the mobile money innovation and encouraging debate and dialogue on the best ways to use such digital innovations to extend financial services to all, especially, the "unbanked" or "underbanked" in mostly rural communities.

Leading the discussion is the head of MTN's Mobile Money Commercial Division, Mr. Eli Hini, who will join companies, social enterprises, entrepreneurs and individuals from across Ghana and within the payments industry to interact and share perspectives on the state of the mobile payment industry in Africa and Ghana - the dynamics of this system, key questions and issues surrounding its operation and prospects and challenges.

The most recent World Bank Report shows that approximately two billion people are globally “unbanked”, with the majority of this number located in developing countries and emerging markets. Two billion people lacking formal financial services affords the mobile money industry an opportunity to provide these individuals with these services, along with converting the informal economy into a formal contributor of GDP in numerous countries.

The advent of technology as well as the widespread use of mobile phones have led to an increase in the use of Mobile Money Services. Today, Mobile Money Service is provided by all the leading mobile networks in Ghana.

The Executive Director of Penplusbytes, Kwami Ahiabenu, II, said the use of new technologies such as mobile money are laying the foundation for a cashless future for the Ghanaian market. "However, a huge untapped potential exists in the sector hence our excitement to be hosting this session. We want to create an environment where key stakeholders can discuss practical ideas and innovations on how to improve the mobile money services currently on offer," he added.

A number of key issues to be explored at the Tech Salon include: how technology can help in cash recycling and liquidity; what makes mobile money a unique service; and challenges in delivering mobile money services. Participants would also examine the main features of mobile money platforms including safety, functionality and other technical aspects.

ABOUT
Penplusbytes is a leading organization in Africa working in 3 areas: governance and accountability, new media and innovations as well as oil, gas and mining. It consists of a network of media organizations and journalists interested in using ICTs to effectively advance high quality journalism.

Technology Salon™ is an intimate, informal, and in person, discussion between information and communication technology experts and international development professionals, with a focus on both: Technology's impact on donor-sponsored technical assistance delivery, and Private enterprise driven economic development, facilitated by technology.