History of Kifiya Technology

Over the past 14 years, Kifiya has grown from a startup into a leading innovator in digital financial services and AI-based modeling, expanding access to finance and markets in Ethiopia. Our journey highlights the transformative power of big data and technology, with an unwavering focus on building inclusive products, empowering people, and advancing digital solutions.

Key Milestones

2012 – Foundation & First Breakthroughs

• Launched as a payments company, pioneering the unification and digitization of national utility bill payments through a Build-Operate-Transfer model.

• In partnership with the Gates Foundation, digitized the Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP), transitioning distribution from cash to electronic payments — a landmark PPP recognized by McKinsey.

2015 – Diversification & Social Impact

• Expanded into agricultural insurance, solar energy, and airtime distribution.

• Addressed critical gaps in agriculture, energy, and communication, showcasing technology as a driver of societal benefit.

2018 – Expanding Digital Horizons

• Entered e-commerce, mobility, and digital finance.

• Focused on building comprehensive digital solutions to simplify and enhance everyday transactions for Ethiopians.

2022 – AI & Venture Building

• Transitioned into a venture-building company, leading innovation in AI-driven credit scoring.

• Reinforced commitment to financial inclusivity by democratizing access to credit and financial services.

2024 & Beyond – Shaping the Future

• Launching four product-led platforms to strengthen access to financial services and markets.

• With a global and diverse team, Kifiya is committed to driving inclusive growth, fostering economic resilience, and creating a lasting regional impact.

• Who We Work With

  We work with banks, financial and non-financial institutions, governments, and development partners to provide digital solutions that expand access to credit, streamline payments, and optimize market connections for MSMEs, smallholder farmers, and low-income individuals. By leveraging data-driven technology, we empower these stakeholders to deliver inclusive financial services, digitize value chains, enhance operational efficiency, and drive sustainable economic growth.
  FIs and Non-Bank FIs

  Unlock Digital Finance Innovation with Kifiya’s Cutting-edge Solutions.

  Our innovative solutions are tailored for Financial Institutions and Non-Bank Financial Institutions looking to simplify & secure access to financial services.

  Transforming Finance with Technology.

  We are reshaping the financial landscape by providing state-of-the-art digital infrastructure. From AI-enabled credit assessments to seamless payment processes, we empower FIs and NBFIs to transcend traditional limitations and harness the power of fintech innovation

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  MSMEs and Consumers

  Bridging The Gap Between Financial Opportunities and The Communities We Serve.

  We are dedicated to enabling universal access to financial services, ensuring that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), alongside consumers, can easily navigate the digital economy.

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  Smallholder Farmers

  Empowering Smallholder Farmers with Digital Solutions.

  At Kifiya, we aim to transform the agricultural ecosystem through digital innovation, providing smallholder farmers with the tools they need to thrive. Our technology-driven solutions are designed to increase access to financial services, markets, and essential agricultural inputs, empowering farmers towards greater productivity and sustainability

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  Commuters

  Transforming Travel by creating Seamless Commuting experiences.

  We enable travelers to plan, book, and pay for short- and long-distance bus travel on one integrated platform, helping them navigate the complexities of daily transport with ease. We’re dedicated to enhancing the travel experience, making it more accessible, reliable, and user-friendly for commuters

• Our Impact by the Numbers

  Empowering MSMEs and Smallholder Farmers
  Launched the first uncollateralized Digital Credit through our BPAAS product in partnership with one bank.

  • 35% of beneficiaries are women

  • 68% are youth

  • 18% are from vulnerable groups

  Key Achievements

  • $290 million in financing accessed by MSMEs

  • 158,000 vouchers worth issued through cash or credit

  • 2.43 billion ETB in market access gained

  • 18,651 MSMEs supported

  • 6,500 farmers accessed vouchers via cash or credit

  • 768,000 farmers repaid debts totaling ETB 52 million

  • 35,000 membership fees collected through Telebirr, CBEbirr, and Awash Birr in partnership with the Red Cross Society