Africa's financial sector is undergoing a digital transformation, driven by advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and mobile technology. 

Despite the notable progress in mobile banking and fintech, the continent continues to face a significant financial inclusion gap, with over half the population remaining unbanked. 

This paradox is particularly evident in South Africa, where a sophisticated financial sector coexists with deep inequality. 

To bridge this divide, South African banks are leapfrogging legacy hurdles by embracing technologies like generative AI (GenAI), focusing on socioeconomic trends and using advanced tools to reshape customer interactions and underwriting processes.

Breaking down barriers to the unbanked

Despite the fact that a high percentage of South Africans have access to formal financial products, a significant portion of the population remains effectively unbanked due to distrust of financial institutions, particularly within the informal sector. 

To appeal to this market, the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector is pursuing digital strategies that build trust by offering more accessible financial solutions.

In leveraging conversational banking and prioritising customer experience, South African BFSI players can attract tech-savvy users while retaining traditional customers, ultimately driving greater financial inclusion across the country. 

By integrating AI, South Africa's BFSI sector can enhance customer experiences and operational agility, ultimately driving financial inclusion and sustainable growth in the digital age.

The role of Generative AI in digitising access

GenAI is playing a decisive role in transforming the BFSI sector in South Africa. Banks are now leveraging AI-powered chatbots to provide 24/7 customer support, answer frequently asked questions, and personalise customer interactions at every touchpoint. 

This not only improves customer satisfaction but also frees up human agents to handle more complex inquiries.

Furthermore, AI is revolutionising credit scoring, especially for underserved populations. By analysing alternative data sources like mobile phone usage and utility payment history, AI can assess creditworthiness for individuals who may not have a traditional credit score. 

This helps to expand financial inclusion by providing access to credit for those who were previously excluded.

First address risks associated with AI

While AI offers significant benefits, it is essential to address the risks associated with its use. Organisations must be cautious when partnering with cloud-enabled service providers. 

These providers should prioritise data privacy and security by adhering to strict regulations like General Data Protection Regulation and Protection of Personal Information Act.

They should also employ advanced encryption techniques to protect sensitive customer data. Transparency is key; providers must inform customers about data usage and offer options for data control. 

By partnering with reputable providers who prioritise these factors, organisations can mitigate the risks associated with AI and ensure the ethical and responsible use of technology.

The rise of fintech and digital-first banks

To serve diverse customer segments, South African banks are implementing tailored digital strategies. For affluent customers, banks offer personalised financial services through advanced digital platforms, including wealth management tools and investment advisory services. 

For underserved populations, banks are focusing on accessible options like Unstructured Supplementary Service Data banking and micro-lending. By partnering with financial technology (fintech) companies, banks can reach underserved segments and offer innovative financial solutions.

The emergence of fintech and digital-first banks has increased competition and forced traditional banks to innovate. 

These newer banks often offer more digital-friendly services and a focus on customer experience. Driven by the need to innovate to survive, traditional banks have responded by investing in digital platforms and partnering with fintech companies to offer more convenient features like instant transfers and AI-powered customer support.

With the emergence of Rich Communication Services (RCS), companies are now able to offer a more enhanced customer experience compared to traditional Short Message Service. 

Key features include multimedia support, file sharing, branding, and two-way communication. RCS also provides stronger security features, such as encryption and verification, to reduce the risk of fraud.

Future advancements in AI and digital banking

AI-driven credit scoring for the unbanked, voice and conversational banking in local languages, and AI-powered financial literacy tools are key areas for future development. These advancements can further drive financial inclusion and growth in Africa's BFSI sector. 

By leveraging AI and digital technologies, South Africa's BFSI sector can overcome legacy challenges, foster financial inclusion, and contribute to the country's economic growth.

This requires prioritising customer experience, addressing AI risks, and tailoring strategies to serve diverse populations.