Student Spotlight: Oscar Paul Mmari

Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your career to date?

My name is Oscar Paul Mmari, and I am a Certified Digital Finance Practitioner with a passion for revolutionising the financial services industry by equipping practitioners with knowledge related to digital finance. Over the past 9 years, I have gained extensive experience in banking and have become known for championing key digital initiatives and projects that have transformed the organisations I have worked for.

How did you venture into the field of digital financial services?

My passion for innovative digital banking solutions led me to explore this field further. After working in traditional banking for over 5 years, I was presented with the opportunity to pivot my career and work in a digital banking unit, which I eagerly embraced.

What motivates you to continue your work in digital finance?

A significant aspect of my job involves implementing new services and addressing challenges faced by clients with existing services. It is highly satisfying to witness how these improvements positively impact customer user experience, confidence, and the adoption of digital services.

Are there specific challenges you are currently addressing that you’d like to highlight to our community?

I’m currently addressing two key challenges in the digital financial services sector. First, there is a low level of digital financial knowledge among key executives in many financial institutions, which makes it difficult to gain support for implementing or exploring new financial services/products. Second, stakeholders are not fully aligned to enable digital payments for the underserved population. Issues like unfavourable pricing, cultural barriers, and regulations have hindered the adoption of digital financial services.

How did you come to know about DFI, and what have you enjoyed most about your interactions with us?

I learned about DFI through a friend who had previously worked with DFI alumni. What I’ve enjoyed most about my interactions with DFI are the valuable courses, engaging community, informative webinars, and enriching events that have broadened my knowledge and network.

How has your journey with DFI impacted your career?

My journey with DFI has significantly impacted my career. For example, it equipped me with the skills necessary to lead and support key digital projects such as the Tanzania Instant Payment System and Digital Lending Project within my bank. This journey has contributed to my career growth and success.

What are your hopes for the future, and what would you like to see happen in your lifetime?

In the future, I aspire to see more financial products that are tailored to the needs of individuals at the bottom of the pyramid, bringing financial inclusion to underserved communities.

Could you tell us more about your role as a COP facilitator?

As a COP facilitator, I have had the privilege of mentoring and guiding participants through the digital finance journey. It’s been rewarding to see how participants have grown and impacted their careers positively. Having already experienced this journey, I’ve inspired several individuals to pursue the Certified Digital Finance Practitioner (CDFP) journey and join the association to build a network of professionals.

How did your association come into existence?

The Association of Digital Finance Practitioners Tanzania came into existence after completing the CDFP journey and realising the need for an in-country community of practitioners dedicated to sharing knowledge and experiences in the field of digital finance. This community is also vital for mentoring professionals and advocating for digital finance-related matters. The primary goals of our association are to create a platform for digital finance professionals that fosters innovation, promotes policy advocacy, provides a local point of exposure and credibility, and offers networking opportunities for professionals.

What impact do you hope the association will have?

I believe the association will empower young Tanzanian professionals by providing them with a community where they can gain knowledge, experience, and opportunities to make a positive impact on their communities through digital finance.

How can people join or find out more?

Those interested in joining the association can simply complete the online form available on the association’s website at www.adfptanzania.or.tz.

 

 

Oscar Paul Mmari

Manager: Digital Business Acquiring & Issuing at BancABC Tanzania

Founding Member & Deputy Secretary for the Association Of Digital Finance Practitioners in Tanzania

DFI Alumni and Community Member