Outlook 2026: Funeka Montjane

Africa is entering a defining decade - where technology will not just enable growth but transform how economies and societies operate. In 2026,three major shifts will dominate the continent’s digital agenda.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) will move from hype to measurable impact

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Beyond predictive analytics and fraud detection, agentic AI—autonomous AI agents capable of completing complex tasks—will revolutionize customer engagement, automate compliance, and optimize operations. This will enable hyper-personalized banking experiences and accelerate financial inclusion through smarter, data-driven solutions.

Cloud Computing and Digital Infrastructure will underpin innovation

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Cloud-native platforms, CPaaS (Communications Platform as a Service), and mobile virtual network operators (MVNO) will make digital services more accessible and affordable. Combined with rising smartphone penetration, this will unlock embedded finance, where banking, insurance, and payments integrate seamlessly into everyday platforms like e-commerce and ride-hailing.

Finally, cybersecurity and trust frameworks will become non-negotiable.

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As digital ecosystems expand, so do risks. Financial institutions will prioritize advanced security controls, AI-driven fraud prevention, and compliance automation to safeguard data and maintain trust. This aligns with Standard Bank’s own roadmap, which emphasizes secure digital identity, open banking capabilities,and resilient cloud architectures to support sustainable and responsible wealth-creation.

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Connectivity, digital public infrastructure, and sustainability technologies will shape Africa’s economic leap forward

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Beyond these, connectivity, digital public infrastructure, and sustainability technologies - such as IoT and blockchain - will shape Africa’s economic leap forward. These changes are not isolated - they converge to redefine Africa’s economic trajectory. By coupling AI-driven inclusion, pervasive network connectivity, and robust security, Africa is poised to leapfrog legacy systems and position itself as a global digital powerhouse. For businesses and policymakers, the challenge will be ensuring these advances translate into inclusive growth and sustainable development.