Young Moroccan consumers are moving fast to mobile payments and digital banking, pushing banks to adapt. CIH Bank and Visa have launched a national fintech challenge to speed up innovation and bring startups into the country’s banking system.
The initiative was announced after GITEX Africa 2026 and marks a shift from announcements to real projects in Morocco. The CIH Visa Fintech Challenge is designed as an “innovation factory” that connects startups directly with banks to build and test new financial services.
The programme focuses on Banking-as-a-Service, artificial intelligence and new payment systems. The aim is to reduce gaps between banks, fintech firms and digital users. CIH Bank says the challenge will help develop services that match the needs of a young, mobile-first population.
The partnership also gives local startups access to Visa’s network in more than 200 countries. CIH Bank says the programme offers a practical testing environment to co-build products and bring them to market faster.
