31 representatives from 11 African countries are currently gathered in Mauritius for Africa Forward Together (AFT), the annual seminar organised by MCB, bringing together African bankers. The theme for this year’s edition, the ninth of its kind, which is being held from 19 to 21 September is: "Innovative Partnering".

For three days, delegates coming from 24 African banks and financial institutions, will follow the presentations of the various MCB representatives and partners. They will, amongst others, study the possibility of outsourcing certain banking operations in Mauritius.

Africa Forward Together aims to enable African bank representatives to see what Mauritius and MCB can offer them in terms of collaboration and progress, while also discussing the future of Africa and that of the regional banking sector.

For some years now, MCB has been strengthening its positioning as the "bank of banks" on the continent. It offers outsourcing services allowing African banks to rely on its know-how, technology and network of partners to spur their growth and progress.

The Chief Executive and Group Director MCB, Pierre Guy Noël, commented that MCB and African banks have a lot to gain from each other by working closer together. He therefore invited the banks present to build strong and lasting partnerships.

He also emphasized that MCB will pursue its policy of expansion and diversification, and highlighted the strong growth potential on the regional level. He further highlighted the fact that MCB is the largest bank in East Africa, is present in nearly 40 countries and has an extensive network and experience with other African banks.

MCB is aware of the fundamental need to evolve with the times and keep customers at the heart of any strategic development. To do so MCB relies on several levers including digital evolution and human resources. In this context, Pierre Guy Noël has announced the setting up of an executive school, next year, dedicated to finance professions – both Mauritian and African.