Agenda
Day 1 | Saturday, November 21, 2026
– 09:00 AM
Registration & Networking
– 09:10 AM
Welcome Note
Welcome Note by Dr. Alok Misra, Chairperson - GAFI
– 09:20 AM
From Vision to Reality
The Future of GAFI by Syed Mohsin Ahmed
– 09:30 AM
Welcome Note
Welcome Note by Ms. Christine / SOAS Rep
Introduction to Three Pillars of the Day
- Building Resilience
- Financial Innovation
- Responsible Implementation
– 10:00 AM
Keynote Address
Microfinance for Equitable Growth
by Mr. Ajay Banga, President - The World Bank Group*
– 11:00 AM
Protecting the Unprotected: The Future of Health Financing
From innovative funding models to cross-sector collaborations, discover pathways to build equitable health systems that leave no one behind.
From Fields to Future: Empowering Farmers especially Female for Climate Action
This breakout session explores how empowering women in agriculture can unlock powerful climate action. Dive into policies, practices, and partnerships that elevate women's leadership, enhance resilience, and cultivate sustainable futures from the ground up.
– 11:15 AM
– 12:15 PM
PowerTalk 1
The New Normal: Inclusive Finance in an Era of Global Shocks
Discussion Point: As the world deals with economic disruptions, climate crises, and geopolitical uncertainty, how do we ensure financial systems leave no one behind?
This PowerTalk explores the urgent need for inclusive finance as a cornerstone of resilience and recovery. Join thought leaders as they unpack innovative solutions, digital tools, and policy shifts shaping a new normal—one where financial inclusion is not optional, but essential.
Followed by Q&A– 01:30 PM
– 02:30 PM
Dialogue on Global Landscape for Equity & Debt Investment in Microfinance
This keynote address offers a deep dive into the current global landscape of equity and debt investment in microfinance—highlighting emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities.
Gain insights into how impactful capital can drive sustainable growth, financial inclusion, and long-term resilience for underserved communities.
Building Financial Inclusion Through Financial Education for Young People
Young people who understand basic financial concepts and available financial instruments and facilities are more likely to be included in the system.
This is a worldwide issue and involves government, educators, and the financial sector.
– 03:30 PM
Reimagining Risk Management: Preparing Inclusive Finance for Future Uncertainties
This panel challenges traditional approaches to risk management, advocating for innovative, people-centered strategies that protect the most vulnerable.
Explore new tools, frameworks, and mindsets needed to build financial ecosystems that are not only inclusive—but future-ready.
Dialogue on Climate and Financial Inclusion
– 03:45 PM
– 04:45 PM
Fireside Chat: Mr. Aryann Jain
An engaging conversation with an AI expert on the Role of Predictive Analysis for a Resilient Microfinance Industry .
– 06:30 PM
Linking Investors with the Financial Service Providers (FSPs)
Discussion Point: This topic will bring together two vital forces in the financial ecosystem — investors seeking impactful, secure, and optimized return, and financial service providers (FSPs) offering the infrastructure, expertise, and market access to make those impact investments possible.
FSPs will approach investors, both debt and equity, and present their business case for securing investments.
Day 2 | Sunday, November 22, 2026
– 09:00 AM
Energizer & Recap
by Ms. Kara Norton & Syed Mohsin Ahmed
– 10:00 AM
Plenary 2
Digital Disruption with a Human Touch: How Fintech is Reshaping Microfinance?
Discussion Point: Learn how new technologies like mobile apps, digital payments, and data tools are making microfinance faster, cheaper, and easier to scale.
This session will show how fintech is helping investors reach more people while reducing risk — with a look at how predictive analytics is enabling lenders to anticipate borrower needs, improve credit scoring, and tailor financial products for greater impact.
Followed by Q&A– 10:30 AM
Keynote Address
by ADB Representative*
– 11:30 AM
Growing Stronger: How Global Policy and Resources Supports Climate-Resilience
This panel discussion explores how international frameworks, public and private investments, and cross-sector partnerships are strengthening climate resilience, particularly for vulnerable farming communities.
Join experts and practitioners as they share insights on effective policy approaches, innovative financing mechanisms, adaptive technologies, and resource mobilization strategies that support sustainable livelihoods and resilient food systems.
The discussion will also examine how strengthening institutions and directing resources toward financial service providers (FSPs) can enhance their capacity to deliver climate-responsive services and support long-term resilience.
Dialogue on Inclusive Insurance with Mr. Rishi Raithatha or Mr. Toby Berhmann from FIF*
This breakout session explores how empowering women in agriculture can unlock powerful climate action. Dive into policies, practices, and partnerships that elevate women's leadership, enhance resilience, and cultivate sustainable futures from the ground up.
– 11:30 AM
– 12:30 PM
Scaling Profits with Purpose: Investment Opportunities in Inclusive Finance
The Next Frontier in Microfinance: Driving Impact Beyond Credit
– 01:30 PM
– 02:00 PM
Fireside Chat
How is Global Funding for Climate Resilience Supporting Agriculture Finance Ecosystem: A Dialogue with Global Shield
Discussion Point: This thought-provoking session will explore how global climate resilience funding is strengthening the agriculture finance ecosystem.
Hear from Global Shield leaders on innovative financing solutions driving resilience for vulnerable farming communities.
– 04:00 PM
Grand Debate
Guardians of Trust: The Regulator’s Role in Responsible Microfinance
Discussion Point: As microfinance expands, regulators play a critical role in ensuring stability, transparency, and client protection.
This grand debate will explore how effective oversight, smart policy design, and collaborative regulation can support both innovation and responsible growth in the sector.
Regulator’s role to promote inclusive finance requires a softer touch as we are dealing with clients whose business is their livelihood.
– 04:30 PM
Closing Ceremony & Next Steps
Syed Mohsin Ahmed , Honorary CEO – GAFI
FiF – UK Representative – Ms. Ase Bergstedt