We build data-driven financing for the 80% of businesses and individuals that traditional banks exclude across Francophone Africa.
In Francophone Africa, traditional banks exclude nearly 80% of businesses and individuals. They continue to rely on outdated models: excessive collateral requirements and operations centred on physical branches.
Meanwhile, more than 400 million young people, digitally savvy and drivers of the continent's economic growth, lack access to financial services adapted to their needs. Small suppliers often wait for payments that drag on and see their working capital needs accumulate.
Obaro exists to bridge this gap. We offer data-driven financing solutions designed to serve both businesses and individuals.
By digitising the trust chain and using buyer solvency as leverage, rather than supplier assets, we're building an inclusive financial ecosystem that accelerates Africa's economic transformation.
Operators, builders, and product leaders with deep roots in African finance and technology.
Co-Founder & CEO
Wharton School graduate, former Goldman Sachs banker, and former Minister of Investments for Benin, Hamet Aguemon has over 25 years of experience structuring financing totaling more than $3 billion across sub-Saharan Africa.
Co-Founder & Chief Product Officer
With over 30 years of experience in technology and financial services, Kezia Crawford-Cousins is a recognized product innovator and leader. Former founder of Qualica Technologies and Verify Dynamics, and Senior Manager at Accenture, they combine expertise in designing and developing innovative fintech solutions.
Co-Founder & CTO
PhD in AI with over 20 years of experience, Mahuna Akplogan has led several AI-based technology platforms. Former CEO of a patient flow management solution and former Chief Technology and Scientific Officer at Smart Layers, he combines scientific expertise and technology leadership in service of innovation.
Product Designer
Office Manager
Software Engineer
Finance & Compliance Specialist
Software Engineer
Customer Success Manager
Legal Advisor
Early 2023: Exploration of market opportunities for Obaro and initial development initiatives in West Africa.
October 2023: Opportunities identified in mortgage financing and supply chain financing. Initial investment of €228K by founders.
January 2024: Start of product development, technology research, and platform co-design.
March 2024: Completion of initial designs and technology agreements. Collaboration agreement with the departments of Benin's Ministry of Economy and Finance. Start of technology development and business process modeling.
January 2025: Launch of Obaro in Benin with a supply chain financing offering. Banking Intermediary license obtained.
February 2025: Filing of MFI license application. Onboarding of vehicle dealer partners. "Friends and family" funding round of €240K.
August 2025: Obaro Platform 1.0.0 goes live in Benin.
Six principles that shape every product we ship and every partnership we sign.
We believe in clear pricing, open communication, and honest relationships with every customer and partner.
Our flat and agile structure enables cross-functional teamwork that delivers better solutions faster than traditional hierarchies.
We move at the speed our customers need, with 24-48 hour decisions replacing months of bureaucracy.
Every product decision starts with customer experience - we succeed only when our customers thrive.
Fair access to financing for all, with equitable terms that create value rather than extract it.
We use data and technology to solve real problems, not to create complexity for its own sake.
