Barcelona – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Kistpay aimed at advancing digital inclusion and sustainable development in the Arab region. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on the sidelines of the Arab States Digital Day at the World Mobile Congress, marking a significant milestone in fostering collaboration for digital transformation.

The partnership between UNDP and Kistpay under the Digital for Sustainable Development (D4SD) initiative signifies a commitment to leveraging digital technologies to address key development challenges in the Arab region, with a possibility of expansion across regions.

UNDP and Kistpay will cooperate on a number of areas under the D4SD initiative, including developing a pilot partnership in the Arab region to promote digital inclusion, and exploring the implementation of initiatives in universal connectivity, digital capacity building, digital inclusion, digital public goods, and public-private partnerships.

Ms. Marina Walter, Deputy Assistant Administrator and Deputy Regional Director for UNDP in the Arab States, expressed her optimism about the partnership highlighting that "this collaboration with Kistpay represents a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and promoting sustainable development in the Arab region. By joining forces, we can create innovative solutions that empower communities and foster inclusive growth."

From his side, Mr. Asif Jafri, the Founder and CEO of Kistpay highlighted “collaborating with UNDP marks a pivotal moment for Kistpay as we are driven by a shared vision of leveraging technology to foster sustainable development and empower communities worldwide, especially the unbanked populations. Together, we will enhance the access to digital services and drive socio-economic growth to pave the way for inclusive digital ecosystems that leave no one behind.”

The signing of the MoU between UNDP and Kistpay marks the beginning of a fruitful collaboration that seeks to harness the power of digital technologies to accelerate progress towards sustainable development in the Arab region and beyond.

For more information:

PRESS RELEASE

Media Contacts UNDP | Fatma Yassin | Regional Communications Advisor a.i.| Fatma.yassin@undp.org

Kistpay | Fatima Alvi | Manager Communications and Digital Development | fatima.alvi@kistpay.com

About Kistpay

Kistpay is a pioneer fintech platform committed to revolutionizing access to digital services and financial inclusion globally, using technology and data driven solutions. Through innovative approach and cutting-edge technology, Kistpay empowers individuals and communities, especially the unbanked, to achieve financial stability and drive socio-economic growth. Learn more about Kistpay's mission and impact at kistpay.com or follow us on social media @Kistpay.

About UNDP

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet. Learn more at undp.org or follow us at @UNDP.