In the arena of life, courage often becomes the armour of those who choose to blaze new trails, break down barriers, and open up doors into uncharted territory for others to follow.

Quite often, these expeditions are marked by unexpected hurdles that at first appear insurmountable and require a visionary spirit to look beyond the challenges and uncover hidden opportunities. But the gratifying feeling that follows is often worth the fight – much like a gladiator rising triumphant after conquering a formidable foe in the arena.

As we expand our footprint across the African continent, with the aim of inspiring Africa to greatness, we continue to break down barriers associated with traditional financial services and construct innovative bridges that connect diverse communities, businesses, and individuals. The story is not about winning numbers and gaining markets alone; it is about the overall impact of financial technology on our society, institutions, economy, and everyday lives.

The decision to extend beyond borders is not merely a business strategy; it is a response to our mission – Creating technology solutions that connect and empower individuals, businesses, and communities.

As we look back on the just-concluded quarter through the lens of this expansion strategy, we explore the challenges encountered and overcome, the diverse partnerships forged, and the talents harnessed. The narrative weaves together the threads of foresight, adaptability, and resilience that characterize a successful venture into uncharted territories.

As we break through barriers, let us reflect on the significance of fostering financial inclusion, technological innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration. This narrative serves as both a testament to the possibilities inherent in the fintech realm and an inspiration for those seeking to chart their course into unexplored territories. It is a compelling reminder that, in the interconnected world of finance and technology, breaking barriers is not just a pursuit of profit but a pathway to building enduring bridges that unite nations and aspirations.

The expression "the end of a thing is greater than its beginning" offers a profound perspective as we reflect on the conclusion of another fruitful calendar year, having overcome its challenges and bridged the gaps. With a revitalized sense of vigour and optimism for the new frontiers on the horizon, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of an even more inspiring and productive New Year in 2024.

I wish you peace, joy, and prosperity during this season and beyond.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!