In Togo, informal savings circles, known as tontines, are moving into a more secure digital space thanks to fintech companies like Ollo Africa. The company recently received an electronic money institution license from the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO).

Ohana Africa is a financial technology solution developed by the Togolese startup Ollo Africa. Its mobile application allows users to organize and manage traditional savings circles, known as tontines, online. The solution was launched in August 2024 by Mawuna Koutonin, the company's CEO.

The app is available on both iOS and Android, where it has already been downloaded more than 5,000 times, according to data from the Play Store. Users can create an account and a digital space to start a savings group, define contribution rules, track payments, and plan the distribution of funds. Every transaction is traceable, which reduces the risk of misunderstandings.

The system also includes automated reminders and notifications to help enforce group discipline. It addresses the issues of reliability and fund security often associated with traditional tontines, helping to reduce disputes and strengthen trust among participants.

Beyond group management, the application provides people with limited access to banking services with a structured savings solution and opens up opportunities for future integration with other digital financial services. It is designed to be a practical, user-friendly tool aligned with local realities.

The app's launch is part of a growing trend in African fintech, where mobile applications are transforming traditional economic practices into modern digital solutions. In addition to Togo, Ohana Africa is also available in Nigeria and Kenya.

Adoni Conrad Quenum