As GITEX Africa 2025 drew to a close in Marrakech, a panel of experts explored the digitization of the African MSME ecosystem, recognizing its vital role in African businesses. Zainab Oumeryem of Bank Al-Maghrib challenged the perception of financing as the primary obstacle for MSMEs, citing structural issues, administrative burdens, and organizational structure as greater impediments. She emphasized digitization as a tool for transparency and operational structure.

Raliat Sunmonu from Accion Nigeria cautioned against the risk of excluding small businesses during digital transformation, highlighting the necessity of affordable, accessible solutions. Elias Yazbeck from AXIAN Group stressed reaching underserved, often unregistered, businesses and highlighted the dominance of informal channels like Facebook in transactions. The panel collectively emphasized the importance of addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities in digitizing Africa’s MSME ecosystem.