The co-founders of Djamo, Hassan Bourgi and Régis Bamba, have been awarded the Medal of Knight in the Order of Commercial and Industrial Merit by the State of Côte d’Ivoire. The ceremony took place at the Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire in Abidjan, where the Ministry of Commerce and Industry commended their exceptional contribution to the nation’s economic development. The honor recognizes their pioneering work in fintech innovation and their dedication to financial inclusion across the country and beyond.
Celebrating Entrepreneurial Impact
During the event, government officials highlighted how Djamo’s founders have reshaped Côte d’Ivoire’s financial landscape by enabling more people to access digital financial services. Through their leadership, Djamo has become a driving force for inclusion, particularly for unbanked and underserved populations. The distinction symbolizes not only their personal achievements but also the broader role of technology-driven entrepreneurship in transforming Africa’s economic ecosystem.
Djamo’s Journey in Revolutionizing Payments
Founded in 2019, Djamo is a fintech startup that provides digital banking solutions for West African users, bridging the gap between traditional banking and mobile finance. The company offers a mobile app that allows customers to receive salaries, make payments, and manage savings with ease. Headquartered in Abidjan, Djamo has expanded its footprint across Francophone Africa, positioning itself as one of the region’s most promising financial technology innovators.
A Growing Force in African Fintech
Djamo’s mission centers on simplifying access to financial tools through seamless, user-friendly platforms that integrate with global payment systems. The startup became the first from Côte d’Ivoire to join the prestigious Y Combinator accelerator, securing international recognition and funding to support its expansion. In 2023, Djamo announced partnerships with Visa and other major players to enhance its card and payment services, further reinforcing its commitment to providing affordable financial access to millions.
Commitment to Innovation and Inclusion
The company’s founders have consistently emphasized innovation and inclusion as Djamo’s guiding principles. By leveraging technology, they aim to democratize access to financial products and empower users across Africa to take control of their economic futures. This dual focus on technological advancement and social impact aligns closely with Côte d’Ivoire’s broader ambitions for digital transformation and financial empowerment.
A Recognition Reflecting Regional Progress
The state’s acknowledgment of Djamo’s leadership underscores a growing recognition of homegrown tech entrepreneurs who are redefining Africa’s financial infrastructure. Côte d’Ivoire’s government has increasingly supported innovation-led enterprises that contribute to the diversification of the national economy. For Djamo, the award serves as a powerful validation of its impact, highlighting how fintech can act as a catalyst for inclusion and sustainable development.
The decoration of Hassan Bourgi and Régis Bamba as Knights in the Order of Commercial and Industrial Merit marks a proud milestone for Djamo and Côte d’Ivoire’s startup ecosystem. It reflects the convergence of vision, innovation, and social responsibility that defines the new generation of African entrepreneurs. As Djamo continues to expand its reach, its story stands as an inspiring example of how African fintech can create tangible value, not just for investors and users, but for entire economies.