Kifiya expands digital lending to one million Ethiopian farmers
The fintech company aims to increase financial access by offering unsecured loans through AI-driven technology.
ETHIOPIA – Kifiya Financial Technology has announced an ambitious plan to provide financial services to one million smallholder farmers in Ethiopia.
The fintech firm, which has already helped 75,000 farmers access $92 million in credit and agricultural inputs, is partnering with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to scale up its digital lending solutions.
With IFC’s support, Kifiya will enroll farmers on a digital platform that offers collateral-free loans, market connections, and crop management tools powered by advanced satellite imagery.
The partnership also introduces microinsurance products to protect farmers from climate-related risks.
“This initiative with the IFC will open up financial opportunities for smallholder farmers, enabling them to thrive in the digital economy. We will be able to provide farmers with access to digital financial services, improve their productivity, and improve their livelihoods through data-driven solutions,” said Munir Mohammed Duri, Chief Executive Officer of Kifiya.
Unlike traditional lenders that require collateral or credit history, Kifiya relies on AI-powered technology that evaluates financial behavior through mobile transactions and business performance.
This approach eliminates barriers that have historically excluded smallholder farmers from formal financing.
Proven financial impact
Since launching in 2010, Kifiya has facilitated US$150 million in unsecured digital credit for 382,000 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises.
The company has worked alongside six banks to issue 717,000 loans worth US$44 million. Its focus on agriculture has already led to significant investments, with 75,000 smallholder farmers benefiting from financing and agricultural inputs.
With an estimated 50% of Ethiopia’s adult population lacking access to banking services, financial inclusion remains a pressing issue.
The country’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises face a funding gap of approximately US$4.3 billion, limiting their growth potential. Kifiya’s initiative aligns with national efforts to bridge this gap by integrating more farmers into the digital economy.
HortiFlora Expo 2025
Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s avocado sector is set to take center stage at the upcoming HortiFlora Expo 2025 in Addis Ababa. Scheduled from April 1 to April 3, the event will showcase investment opportunities in the horticulture industry.
A panel discussion titled Unlocking Ethiopia’s Avocado Potential will be held on April 1 at the Lalibela Meeting Hall. Experts, policymakers, and investors will explore strategies to improve production quality, overcome logistical challenges, and expand market access for Ethiopian avocados.
“There’s a lot of potential for avocado farmers, but we need support systems that help them maintain consistent yields and meet export requirements,” said an agricultural expert attending the panel discussion.
“Without proper investment in training and infrastructure, small-scale farmers will struggle to compete in the global market.”
Discussions at the expo will focus on policy reforms, financing options, and technological advancements that could help smallholder farmers scale up production.
Industry stakeholders hope that increased investment will strengthen Ethiopia’s position in the global avocado market.
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