The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is witnessing a growing fintech landscape marked by indigenous innovations, entrepreneurial zeal, and emerging thought leadership. We spotlight the story of Lilian Makoi, who is changing the fintech space in both the Middle East and Africa.
Meet Lilian Makoi
Lilian Makoi, who has a Master’s in International Business, is a Tanzanian entrepreneur who is deeply passionate about technology’s transformative potential in the financial services sector, particularly in Micro-Insurance and Personal Finance.
With a remarkable entrepreneurial journey, Makoi has founded several successful ventures, including JamiiAfrica, a Mobile Micro-Health Insurance product tailored for the mass market, and Mipango App, an AI-enabled Personal Finance app aimed at empowering individuals with financial education and tools to improve their financial well-being.
Makoi’s Journey From Telecommunications to Fintech
Makoi’s career journey is a testament to her adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit. Beginning her career in the telecommunications industry, Makoi gained valuable insights into mobile-based financial products while working with companies like Spice VAS Africa and OnMobile Global.
Witnessing a tragic loss due to a lack of access to medical services ignited her entrepreneurial drive. This led to the creation of JamiiAfrica, which aims to democratize access to healthcare through mobile-based insurance solutions.
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Makoi’s MipangoApp
Makoi wanted to tackle a major issue prevalent in Tanzania and Africa—the lack of financial education. This often leads to improper spending habits and low usage of formal financial services, which results in debt for many people. So, Makoi felt the need for technological solutions to address this problem effectively, which laid the foundation for her ventures.
Makoi co-founded MipangoApp, which is a software developer for financial institutions. The company provides services such as financial data analysis, education, money management, and recommendations. MipangoApp uses cutting-edge technologies such as AI and machine learning to offer a comprehensive suite of services. Unlike existing solutions that only monitor income and expenses, MipangoApp offers multiple wallet options, AI financial advice, and education to help users make informed financial decisions and achieve their goals.
MipangoApp owes its success to a dedicated team with collective experience in fintech for the African market. The team is led by Lilian Makoi, the CEO with a Master’s in International Business, and Agness Mollel, the COO with a Master of Law. Each member brings unique expertise and passion to the table. They are committed to making a difference and have worked together for over ten years.
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What’s Ahead for Makoi?
As she looks to the future, Makoi envisions MipangoApp becoming a leading provider of value-added services for customers to banks and financial institutions. With a clear focus on creating lasting impact, she remains committed to adding value to Africa’s people’s lives, one innovative solution at a time.
In Lilian Makoi, Africa has found not just an entrepreneur but also a visionary leader dedicated to driving positive change. Through her innovative ventures and unwavering commitment, she inspires women entrepreneurs across the continent to dream big and make a difference.