Fintech: BCEAO Opens Its Regulatory Laboratory to Togolese Applicants

Togolese fintech firms and financial institutions can apply by November 30, 2026, to join the first cohort of the BCEAO Financial Innovation Laboratory by emailing applications to courrier.zlif@bceao.int. Eligible projects include areas such as payments, credit, digital savings and biometrics, while crypto-asset projects are excluded. The BCEAO expects to review applications within 90 days and run supervised trials lasting three to six months, with justified extensions possible up to two years; customer protection, cybersecurity and anti-money-laundering obligations remain in force. Participation does not grant a licence or authorization to market a solution.