Iyacu will take over from Paula Hunter who is retiring. She is expected to step down from her Executive Director role during the transition period.
Based in Kigali, Iyacu brings more than 15 years of experience in inclusive financial systems, digital finance and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), with a track record of advancing initiatives linked to the Sustainable Development Goals.
His appointment signals the foundation’s continued focus on scaling inclusive, real-time payment systems, particularly in underserved markets.
In his new role, Iyacu is expected to steer the foundation’s long-term sustainability efforts, mobilise additional funding and support deployments across multiple regions where the organisation works with governments, central banks and other partners.
“Inclusive finance is one of the defining challenges and opportunities of our time. Mojaloop has already demonstrated the power of open, interoperable infrastructure to transform economies and improve lives,” Iyacu said.
“I’m excited to build on this momentum, working with partners around the world to expand access to inclusive digital financial services and ensure long-term sustainability for the organization,” he added.
Kosta Peric, Chairperson of the Mojaloop Foundation, said Iyacu’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the organisation.
“Jean Bosco brings an exceptional combination of regional insight, leadership experience and deep understanding of Digital Public Infrastructure. This marks an important step in Mojaloop’s evolution as we continue to scale our global impact,” Peric said.
Iyacu currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Access to Finance Rwanda (AFR), where he leads a team of more than 40 staff and has played a key role in mobilising donor funding and expanding the institution’s interventions over the past five years.
Beyond AFR, he chairs the Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) Network Council, which coordinates collaboration across nine African markets. He is also a member of the Consultative Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP) FinEquity Technical Advisory Committee and holds private sector board roles, including at Salvo Grima Africa Distribution.
The Mojaloop Foundation, a non-profit organisation, focuses on promoting financial inclusion by supporting interoperable payment systems through its open-source software. Its platform is used by governments, banks and mobile money providers to build and enhance real-time payment ecosystems aimed at expanding access to digital financial services worldwide.
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