Robert Phiri

Robert Phiri is the Chief Executive Officer of the Payments Association of Zambia, a leading industry organization representing over forty members, including mobile network operators, payment merchant aggregators, innovative fintech startups, and designated non-bank financial institutions. With a foundational background in law and extensive experience in project management, Robert is a dedicated advocate for financial inclusion and digital transformation.

Over the course of more than six years, he has established himself as a thought leader in both local and international development sectors. His strategic insights and innovative approach have consistently driven progress in the adoption of digital payments, policy development, and financial sector reform. Robert’s leadership has been pivotal in positioning PAYZ as a catalyst for change within Zambia’s rapidly evolving financial landscape.

Prior to his appointment as CEO, Robert served as Head of Policy and Programmes at PAYZ, where he gained specialized expertise in areas such as anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism, virtual assets and virtual asset service providers, cybersecurity in digital financial services, and emerging fintech solutions tailored for developing markets. His work in these domains has helped shape policies that promote security, stability, and inclusivity within Zambia’s digital economy.

Robert is a committed supporter of Zambia’s national digital agenda. He actively contributes to the ICT and digitalisation technical working group under the Public-Private Dialogue Forum. In this capacity, he works toward fostering impactful reforms that create jobs, promote innovation, and expand access to financial services across the country. His involvement extends to several influential committees, including those responsible for developing the Finscope Survey, the National Financial Inclusion Strategy, green finance frameworks, and guidelines for environmentally sustainable lending.

On the continental level, Robert has contributed significantly to initiatives such as the African Union Digital Trade Protocol, the Africa Fintech Network, and the Pan African Payments System. He has also played an instrumental role in facilitating the participation of payment service providers in the Pan African Payments System and the Transaction Cleared on Immediate Basis. His collaborative efforts have contributed to Zambia’s National Digital Transformation Strategy, developed in partnership with the Ministry of Technology and Science and the United Nations Capital Development Fund.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Robert is deeply engaged in following trends within the fintech industry through podcasts and thought leadership forums. He is passionate about understanding and exploring the societal impacts of technology, particularly how fintech innovations can shape lives, foster economic opportunities, and bridge gaps in financial inclusion.

Driven by a profound commitment to harnessing technology for social and economic development, Robert Phiri exemplifies leadership dedicated to shaping a more inclusive, innovative, and prosperous future for Zambia and the wider continent.