Topic: Blockchain and Islamic Finance: A Convergence of Principles for Ethical Inclusion
The intersection of blockchain technology and Islamic finance represents one of the most profound and natural synergies in the modern financial landscape. For African nations with significant Muslim populations—across North, West, and East Africa—this convergence is not just theoretical; it’s a practical pathway to unlocking ethical capital and driving financial inclusion in line with deeply held religious values. This session explores how blockchain can serve as the enabling infrastructure for a new, transparent, and globally connected Islamic economy.

The Core Principles of Islamic Finance: A Primer
To understand the synergy, one must first appreciate the foundational rules that govern Islamic finance (Sharia-compliant finance):