The Alliance for Innovative Regulation (AIR) has opened registration for its virtual TechSprint event, aimed at tackling the rising issue of digital payment fraud in West Africa.
This initiative will bring together various stakeholders, including technology companies, consumer protection agencies, regulators, and innovators, to develop solutions that address vulnerabilities in the region’s expanding digital economy.
As digital payment systems grow, the threat of fraud has increased, jeopardizing consumer security and trust.
The TechSprint, inspired by hackathon models and adapted for government entities and financial regulators, will offer two distinct tracks—Tazama and MVP—catering to different participants.
The Tazama Track will focus on developing low-cost fraud detection solutions using an open-source tool, while the MVP Track will allow teams with prototypes or minimum viable products to refine their solutions with expert guidance.
AIR’s secure platform will offer participants access to valuable datasets, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities with global experts.
AIR’s Director of Programs, Shelley Anderson, emphasized the urgency of addressing payment fraud through collaboration and innovation. The TechSprint will empower participants by providing them with the tools, knowledge, and platform to create actionable solutions that contribute to safer digital financial ecosystems in West Africa.
In addition to the TechSprint, AIR will host a public virtual conference featuring industry leaders and experts discussing topics such as consumer protection, gender-disaggregated data, and the challenges of the redress and complaints process in West Africa. Attendees will also witness the TechSprint demo day, where participants will showcase their solutions developed during the event.
Interested individuals and teams are encouraged to apply promptly for the Tazama and MVP tracks to secure their spots in this high-impact initiative. The event is expected to foster innovation, cross-industry partnerships, and a secure digital payment landscape in West Africa.