Mr. Teferi Mekonnen, CEO and President of Oromia Bank in Ethiopia, has confirmed his participation in the International Forum on African Caribbean Leadership (IFAL) 2026. The event is scheduled to take place on September 24 at the Marriott Marquis in New York, during the United Nations General Assembly Week. Mekonnen will be part of the Capital, Banking & Investment Power Panel, which will discuss "Financing the Alliance". This session aims to bring together sovereign funds, commercial banking, and development finance for a comprehensive conversation.
As the CEO of Oromia Bank, Mekonnen has been instrumental in the institution's efforts to expand digital financial services and promote financial inclusion. Under his leadership, the bank has made significant strides in digital transformation, including the introduction of digital lending and banking solutions. These initiatives aim to improve access to financial services for a wider audience. Oromia Bank has also established partnerships with other organizations, such as Ethiopian Airlines and Quantum Technology, to enhance digital payments and financial services.
Mekonnen's participation in IFAL 2026 brings a valuable Ethiopian banking perspective to discussions on capital mobilisation, financial inclusion, and the role of financial institutions in strengthening Africa's economic cooperation. His insights will be particularly relevant as the forum focuses on fostering cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean. The event will provide a platform for Mekonnen to share Oromia Bank's experiences and best practices in promoting financial inclusion and digital financial services.
The International Forum on African Caribbean Leadership (IFAL) 2026 is expected to attract high-profile attendees, including Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, who will address global leaders during the event. Other notable participants include Daniel Asiedu, who will join Mekonnen on a panel discussion. The forum aims to promote dialogue and cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean, with a focus on economic development, leadership, and global alliances.
Mekonnen's participation in the Capital, Banking & Investment Power Panel will provide a unique opportunity for him to engage with other experts and leaders in the field of finance and investment. The panel's discussion on "Financing the Alliance" will likely focus on innovative financing solutions and strategies for mobilizing capital to support economic development in Africa and the Caribbean.
Oromia Bank's efforts to promote financial inclusion and digital financial services align with the goals of IFAL 2026. The bank's partnerships with other organizations, such as Ethiopian Airlines and Quantum Technology, demonstrate its commitment to leveraging technology to improve access to financial services. Mekonnen's participation in IFAL 2026 will provide a platform for him to share these experiences and learn from other experts in the field.
The International Forum on African Caribbean Leadership (IFAL) 2026 will take place during the United Nations General Assembly Week, providing a unique opportunity for global leaders to engage with each other on pressing issues. Mekonnen's participation in the event reflects Oromia Bank's commitment to promoting economic development and cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean.
Key points
- Teferi Mekonnen to participate in IFAL 2026 and share insights on financing the alliance.
- Oromia Bank has been expanding digital financial services and promoting financial inclusion under Mekonnen's leadership.
- The event aims to foster cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean, with a focus on economic development and global alliances.
