Episode 8. Building Ventures, Building Futures (August 2025)

In episode 8 of Breaking Banks Africa, host Matteo Rizzi speaks with Kigali-based entrepreneur Philip Ngarambe, now Entrepreneur in Residence at ALX Ventures. Philip recounts his journey with AC Group, the company that transformed urban transport in Rwanda by introducing digital “tap & go” bus payments. What began as a mobility solution quickly evolved into a driver of financial inclusion, proving how everyday services can seamlessly bring people into the digital economy.

Philip reflects on scaling a disruptive business, the importance of mentorship, and why investing in youth-led ventures is vital for Africa’s future. At ALX Ventures, he supports young founders in turning ideas into sustainable companies, while emphasizing AI, bottom-up innovation, and solving non-obvious but high-impact problems.

The episode also highlights upcoming opportunities for collaboration, including the Global SME Finance Forum in Johannesburg (September 2025)—a key event for exploring fintech, inclusion, and SME growth on the continent.

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