In-Country Implementation (ICI) is a strategic initiative that aims to accelerate financial inclusion across the AFI network, by supporting members in implementing policy interventions.
Demand-based, the ICI program focuses on high-impact projects with scalability potential. It also fosters peer-learning among member institutions, contributing to an ecosystem of shared growth and knowledge.
To date, the ICI program has supported over 80 projects, covering all of AFI’s main policy areas, including consumer empowerment and market conduct, digital financial services, financial inclusion data, financial inclusion strategy, global standard proportionality, inclusive green finance, SME finance, gender inclusive finance, and forcibly displaced persons.
Click here to access ICI Project Tracker.
Demand-based, the ICI program focuses on high-impact projects with scalability potential. It also fosters peer-learning among member institutions, contributing to an ecosystem of shared growth and knowledge.
To date, the ICI program has supported over 80 projects, covering all of AFI’s main policy areas, including consumer empowerment and market conduct, digital financial services, financial inclusion data, financial inclusion strategy, global standard proportionality, inclusive green finance, SME finance, gender inclusive finance, and forcibly displaced persons.
Click here to access ICI Project Tracker.
Featured ICI Projects
Below, we showcase successful ICI projects which show potential for replication by other members, exhibit sustainability beyond the project duration, embrace innovation in policy responses, and push the boundaries of conventional practices to address complex financial inclusion challenges. These are intended to inspire AFI members and other organizations in advancing their financial inclusion journeys.
Central Bank of The Gambia
Gender-focused Digital Financial Services, National Financial Inclusion Strategy and Consumer Protection Framework
There are two types of ICI services available:
ICI Grants
AFI provides financial support to members in the form of grants. These grants help members to develop and implement comprehensive policies that will improve the accessibility, usage, and quality of financial services. AFI grant support enables member institutions to tackle diverse challenges and deliver impactful policy outcomes.
ICI Technical Support
A range of tailored AFI support services are available to member institutions. These include assisting with the development of policies and regulations, conducting comprehensive policy reviews, and providing input on members’ financial inclusion policies, strategies, or regulatory tools. Technical support also includes capacity-building training for implementing regulatory and/or supervisory tools, and providing technical input for member workshops or seminars.
Who can apply for ICI support?
The below eligibility criteria allow for diverse, impactful, and fair application of the ICI program, while remaining cognizant of AFI’s contractual obligations and membership structures.
Membership Status: AFI extends ICI support primarily to Principal Member Institutions that are in good financial standing with AFI. However, consideration is given to member institutions that have been granted specific exceptions, such as those with fee waivers or special agreements.
Funding Obligations: The ICI program also takes into account conditions that arise from our external funding agreements. This includes but is not limited to, focus areas specific to certain themes, geographical regions, or countries eligible for Official Development Assistance.
Membership Status: AFI extends ICI support primarily to Principal Member Institutions that are in good financial standing with AFI. However, consideration is given to member institutions that have been granted specific exceptions, such as those with fee waivers or special agreements.
Funding Obligations: The ICI program also takes into account conditions that arise from our external funding agreements. This includes but is not limited to, focus areas specific to certain themes, geographical regions, or countries eligible for Official Development Assistance.
How to Apply for ICI Support
AFI member institutions interested in applying for ICI support are encouraged to reach out to their respective Regional Manager for more information, guidance on eligibility, and support with the application process.