AI UNLOCKS CREDIT ACCESS FOR BOTSWANA’S UNDERSERVED.

Article By: Phenyo Babusi

AI experts have warned that without sufficient oversight; technological advancements could lead to greater economic marginalization in the country.

In an interview with Gabz FM News, Fintech Association of Botswana President, Tavonga Muchuchuti revealed that while 88% of Batswana now use mobile money, true financial inclusion requires more than just transacting. 

He noted that AI is reshaping access to credit by analyzing non-traditional data like airtime purchases and mobile money behavior in order to build alternative credit scores for those with no formal banking history.

Muchuchuti also emphasized that although this shift could bring vital services like small loans to the previously unbanked. Challenges concerning data quality, ethical use, and infrastructure could risk reinforcing exclusion rather than addressing it.