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By Daniel Adaji
Ecobank Group and Google Cloud have announced a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening digital banking services and empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa.
The partnership will enable Ecobank to integrate Google Cloud’s advanced technologies particularly artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and data analytics into its operations.
This collaboration is expected to deliver faster, safer, and more accessible payment and remittance solutions for millions of individuals and businesses across more than 33 African countries.
In a statement shared with Pointblanknews.com on Wednesday, Group CEO of Ecobank, Jeremy Awori said, “Our collaboration with Google Cloud is a leap forward in Ecobank’s digital transformation journey. We look forward to leveraging Google Cloud’s world-class technology to unlock new possibilities for individuals and businesses to grow and scale across Africa.”
”This collaboration signifies our shared intent to explore building a more connected and financially inclusive future for the continent,” Awori said.
With Google Cloud’s scalable infrastructure and tools such as Apigee API management and BigQuery for AI-driven insights, Ecobank plans to simplify cross-border transfers and enhance digital banking platforms that are more intuitive, secure, and user-friendly. This includes support for fintech partners to deliver seamless banking services such as accounts, payments, and lending.
A key aim of the partnership is to improve financial accessibility for underserved populations while supporting the economic advancement of SMEs. By providing tailored financial products and data-driven insights, Ecobank hopes to equip entrepreneurs with the tools needed to scale their businesses efficiently.
CEO of Google Cloud, Thomas Kurian noted the alignment of both organizations’ goals, stating, “Google Cloud and Ecobank have a shared vision for using technology to help deliver financial empowerment to more people and businesses in Africa. We look forward to exploring the ways our cutting-edge AI, powerful data analytics, and scalable infrastructure can support Ecobank efforts to fuel the continent’s economic development and digital future.”
Ecobank will also receive expert support from Google Cloud’s Professional Services team to ensure successful deployment and implementation of these technologies over the long term.
The agreement marks a significant step toward bridging Africa’s financial inclusion gap through digital innovation and strategic collaboration. Both companies have expressed commitment to exploring further opportunities using additional Google solutions and services to sustain Africa’s digital transformation.