When Benjamin Fernandes founded NALA, he embarked on a journey to transform financial services in Africa, particularly focusing on streamlining remittances and enhancing financial inclusion. A Tanzanian entrepreneur with a mission to make financial services more accessible, Fernandes is breaking down barriers, one transaction at a time.
Born and raised in Tanzania, Benjamin’s journey from modest beginnings to international recognition has been marked by his unwavering drive and dedication. His academic journey took him to Stanford University, where he became the first Tanzanian to attend Stanford Graduate School of Business with an MBA scholarship. It was during this period that he honed his understanding of the financial challenges faced by millions in Africa and gained the insights that would eventually fuel NALA’s mission.
Launched in 2018, NALA began as a mobile money app that allows users to make offline transactions with ease and efficiency—a game-changer in areas with limited internet access. But Fernandes had a bigger vision. Under his leadership, NALA has evolved to focus on international remittances, creating a more affordable and efficient way for African diasporas to send money back home. This mission is especially significant given the high costs and complexities involved in cross-border money transfers to African countries, a challenge that affects millions of Africans and their families.
NALA’s approach combines technology with deep market knowledge. The platform has eliminated unnecessary fees, ensuring users keep more of what they earn. Moreover, Fernandes has built a team committed to understanding the unique financial landscapes of each African market. NALA operates with transparency and customer-centricity, making it a trusted and innovative solution in the African fintech landscape.
Fernandes’ work with NALA has not gone unnoticed. He has garnered awards and recognition across the fintech industry, solidifying NALA’s place as a leader in African remittances and digital finance. But beyond accolades, it’s Fernandes’ commitment to positive social impact that resonates most strongly. Through NALA, he’s not only making financial services more accessible but also inspiring a new generation of African entrepreneurs to leverage technology for change.
Benjamin Fernandes continues to lead NALA with a focus on growth and innovation, proving that financial inclusion in Africa is both an achievable goal and a necessary foundation for future prosperity. His story and work serve as a beacon for others passionate about solving real-world problems and creating a lasting impact.
