Source: Image by Jema stock on Freepik 

Introduction 

In today’s data-driven world, businesses generate and store an enormous amount of data every day. Data is the backbone of every business and is critical to making informed decisions.  

However, as the data grows, the database management systems are subjected to a significant amount of load, leading to the system’s slow down or even crashing. 

Load balancing is an effective technique that can help distribute the load across multiple servers, ensuring that the database can handle the increased demand without slowing down or crashing.  

In this blog post, we will explore the concept of load balancing in database management systems, its importance, and its various aspects. 

What is Load Balancing? 

Source: Image by Grommik on Freepik 

Load balancing is a technique that distributes the workload across multiple servers to prevent any one server from being overloaded. In a database management system, load balancing can be achieved by distributing the queries across multiple servers.  

This approach ensures that each server handles only a fraction of the total workload, resulting in improved performance, scalability, and availability. 

Load balancing is essential for ensuring that a database management system can handle high volumes of data with ease.  

By distributing the workload across multiple servers, load balancing ensures that the system can handle the increased demand without slowing down or crashing, providing uninterrupted access to the data. 

Types of Load Balancing 

There are two types of load balancing techniques: hardware-based and software-based.  

Hardware-based load balancers are custom-designed physical devices installed between the security system and the server infrastructure. They are known for their high throughput, low latency, and advanced features such as SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) offloading and DDoS (distributed denial of service) protection. 

Software-based load balancers are virtual appliances that run on standard hardware, installed on servers or in virtual machines. They are known for their flexibility and ease of deployment on existing infrastructure, making them a cost-effective choice that can be easily scaled up or down depending on demand. 

The choice between hardware-based and software-based load balancers depends on the specific needs of the organization and its IT infrastructure.  

Hardware-based load balancers are ideal for high-performance and high-budget environments, while software-based load balancers are a better choice for smaller or more dynamic environments. 

Load Balancing Algorithms 

Source: Image by Starline on Freepik 

Load balancing algorithms determine how the workload is distributed across servers.  

There are several load balancing algorithms available, including round-robin, least connections, IP hash, and weighted round-robin:  

1. Round Robin: Requests are distributed across the group of servers sequentially. 

2. Least Connections: A new request is sent to the server with the fewest current connections to clients. The relative computing capacity of each server is factored into determining which one has the least connections. 

3. Least Time: Sends requests to the server selected by a formula that combines the fastest response time and fewest active connections. This algorithm is exclusive to NGINX Plus. 

4. Hash: Distributes requests based on a key you define, such as the client IP address or the request URL. NGINX Plus can optionally apply a consistent hash to minimize redistribution of loads if the set of upstream servers’ changes. 

5. IP Hash: The IP address of the client is used to determine which server receives the request. 

6. Random with Two Choices: Picks two servers at random and sends the request to the one that is selected by then applying the Least Connections algorithm (or for NGINX Plus, the Least Time algorithm if configured to do so). 

Benefits of Load Balancing 

Load balancing provides several benefits to organizations, including: 

1. Improved System Performance 

2. Scalability 

3. Availability 

By distributing the workload across multiple servers, load balancing ensures that the system can handle the increased demand without slowing down or crashing. This provides uninterrupted access to the data, improving the overall user experience. 

Load balancing also makes it possible for organizations to scale their systems as their data grows.  

By adding more servers to the system, organizations can distribute the workload across multiple servers, ensuring that the system can handle the increased demand without slowing down or crashing. 

Cloning And Its Importance in Load Balancing Configuration for High Availability 

Source: Image by GarryKillian on Freepik 

Cloning is the process of creating an exact copy of a server or database instance.  

In the context of load balancing, cloning is important for achieving high availability. By cloning servers, an organization can ensure that there are multiple instances of the database available to handle the workload.  

If one server fails, the cloned server can take over, ensuring that the system remains available and accessible to users. 

Cloning can be achieved through various methods, including physical cloning and virtual cloning. 

Physical Cloning Vs Virtual Cloning 

Physical cloning involves creating a copy of the server using physical hardware, while virtual cloning involves creating a copy of the server using virtualization technology. 

Cloning is an essential part of load balancing configuration for high availability. By ensuring that there are multiple instances of the database available to handle the workload, organizations can ensure that their critical data is always available and accessible to their users.  

This improves the overall user experience and ensures that the organization can meet its data needs, no matter how large the workload. 

Software Load Balancers vs Hardware Load Balancers: Which is Better for Your DB System? 

Source: Image by rawpixel.com on freepik 

When it comes to load balancing in database management systems, there are two types of load balancing techniques: software-based and hardware-based.  

Both techniques have their pros and cons, and choosing the right one for your organization depends on your specific needs and workload requirements. 

Software-Based Load Balancers 

Software-based load balancers involve using software to distribute the workload across servers.  

Using software is more flexible and cost-effective than hardware-based load balancing but may not offer the same level of performance. 

Software-based load balancers are ideal for smaller or dynamic organizations that do not have the budget or for larger organizations.  

They are also suitable for organizations that need to balance the workload across cloud-based servers. 

Hardware-Based Load Balancers 

Hardware-based load balancers involve using a dedicated hardware device to distribute the workload across servers.  

Hardware is more expensive than software-based load balancing but offers better performance and scalability. 

Hardware-based load balancers are ideal for organizations that handle big data and require high performance and scalability.  

They are also suitable for organizations that need to balance the workload across on-premises servers. 

Which is Better? 

The choice between software-based and hardware-based load balancing depends on your organization’s specific needs and workload requirements.  

If you are a smaller organization with a limited budget and workload, a software-based load balancer may be the best option for you.  

If you are a larger organization with a high workload and need for performance and scalability, a hardware-based load balancer may be the best option. 

It is important to consider the total cost of ownership, including maintenance and support, when choosing between software-based and hardware-based load balancing.  

Additionally, it is important to consider your organization’s future growth and scalability needs when making the decision. 

A Closer Look at Clustering in DB Systems: Standard Vs Enterprise Clustering 

Clustering is a technique used in database management systems to improve availability and performance by grouping multiple servers together.  

Standard clustering involves grouping servers together for failover purposes, while enterprise clustering involves grouping servers together for performance and scalability. 

Advantages And Disadvantages of Standard and Enterprise Clustering  

The advantages of standard clustering include improved availability and failover capabilities, while the advantages of enterprise clustering include improved performance and scalability.  

The disadvantages of standard clustering include limited scalability and performance, while the disadvantages of enterprise clustering include increased complexity and cost. 

Best Practices for Implementing and Managing Load Balancers  

Source: Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik 

Implementing and managing load balancers in database management systems requires careful planning and execution.  

Here are some best practices to ensure that load balancers are implemented and managed effectively: 

1. Define Your Goals 

Before implementing load balancers in your database management system, define your goals.  

Determine what you want to achieve with the load balancer, such as improved system performance, scalability, and availability. This will help you choose the right load balancing technique and algorithm for your needs. 

2. Choose the Right Load Balancing Technique 

Choose the right load balancing technique for your needs. Hardware-based load balancing is ideal for organizations that handle substantial amounts of data and require exceptional performance and scalability.  

In contrast, software-based load balancing is suitable for smaller organizations that do not require the same level of performance and scalability as larger organizations. 

3. Choose the Right Load Balancing Algorithm 

Choosing the right load balancing algorithm is crucial for optimal system performance. Consider your specific needs and workload requirements when selecting a load balancing algorithm.  

For example, if your organization handles many requests from a single IP address, then IP hash may be the best algorithm to use. 

4. Monitor Your System 

Monitor your system to ensure that load balancers are working effectively.  

Regularly check system performance metrics, such as response time and server utilization, to identify any issues that may be impacting system performance. 

5. Test Your Load Balancers 

Test your load balancers to ensure that they are working effectively.  

Use load testing tools to simulate high loads and identify any performance issues that may need to be addressed. 

6. Implement Redundancy 

Implement redundancy to ensure that load balancers do not become a single point of failure.  

Use multiple load balancers and configure them in a failover configuration to ensure the system can continue operating in case of a failure. 

By following the above best practices, organizations can ensure that their load balancers are implemented and managed effectively, improving system performance, scalability, and availability. 

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Load Balancers and Clustering in DB Systems 

Source: Image by Storyset on Freepik 

Load balancers and clustering are essential components of database management systems, but they are not without their challenges.  

Here are some common issues that organizations may encounter when implementing load balancers and clustering, along with some troubleshooting tips: 

1. Network Latency 

Network latency can be a significant issue in load balancing and clustering.  

Latency occurs when there is a delay in data transmission between servers, which can lead to slow performance and decreased system availability. 

To troubleshoot network latency issues, organizations should: 

• Optimize network settings to reduce latency 
• Use caching and compression to reduce data transmission times 
• Use a high-speed, low-latency network connection 

2. Database Inconsistencies 

Load balancing and clustering can sometimes cause database inconsistencies, where data on one server is not synchronized with data on another server.  

This can lead to incorrect or inconsistent results, which can impact system performance and user experience. 

To troubleshoot database inconsistencies, organizations should: 

• Use a database replication solution to keep data coordinated across servers 
• Implement a failover mechanism to ensure that the system can continue to operate in the event of a failure 
• Monitor the system for inconsistencies and address them as soon as possible 

3. System Overload 

Load balancing and clustering can also cause system overload, where the system is unable to handle the workload and crashes.  

This can occur when the workload is too high or when the load balancer or clustering software is not configured correctly. 

To troubleshoot system overload issues, organizations should: 

• Monitor system performance metrics, such as response time and server utilization, to identify any issues that may be impacting system performance 
• Use load testing tools to simulate high loads and identify any performance issues that may need to be addressed 
• Configure load balancing and clustering software correctly. 

Best Practices for Troubleshooting Load Balancers and Clustering in DB Systems 

1. Monitor system performance metrics, such as response time and server utilization, to identify any issues that may be impacting system performance 

2. Use load testing tools to simulate high loads and identify any performance issues that may need to be addressed 

3. Use a database replication solution to keep data coordinated across servers and prevent database inconsistencies 

4. Implement a failover mechanism to ensure that the system can continue to operate in the event of a failure 

5. Optimize network settings to reduce latency and improve system performance 

6. Configure load balancing and clustering software correctly to prevent system overload and other performance issues 

Why Work With us  

We are a software-based load balancer provider, and we are passionate about helping businesses improve their website and application performance. 

Load balancing is a critical component of any modern IT infrastructure, as it ensures that web traffic is distributed evenly across multiple servers. This not only prevents downtime and ensures high availability, but it also improves website speed and user experience. 

At Finsense Africa, we pride ourselves on providing reliable, efficient, and cost-effective load balancing solutions to businesses of all sizes.  

Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you improve your system performance, so you can focus on growing your business. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you. 

Sources 

1. What is Load Balancing? 

2. Architecture of a Load Balancing for a Database Server  

3. Load Balancing Computing  

4. Load balancing in Distributed Database System 

Summary 

The article talks about load balancing in database management systems. The system becomes slow or crashes when subjected to a significant amount of load, which is prevented by load balancing.  

Load balancing distributes the workload across multiple servers, resulting in improved performance, scalability, and availability. There are two types of load balancing techniques – hardware-based and software-based.  

Load balancing algorithms such as round-robin, least connections, IP hash, and weighted round-robin are available. Load balancing provides several benefits, including improved system performance, scalability, and availability.  

Cloning is the process of creating an exact copy of a server or database instance and is essential for high availability. Physical cloning and virtual cloning are two methods of cloning.  

Choosing the right type of load balancer for an organization depends on its specific needs and workload requirements. 

Source: Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay   

Cloud computing is an essential aspect of business operations in the modern world, and the banking industry is no exception. It offers banks a flexible and cost-effective approach to deliver IT services. Hence enabling banks to focus on their core business activities.  

Banks use the cloud to reduce capital and operational expenditure, improve efficiency, and deliver better services to their customers.  

In Africa, cloud computing gained popularity among banks due to its ability to overcome the region’s infrastructure limitations. 

African Banks face technology infrastructure challenges, such as power outages, limited connectivity, and outdated technology. These challenges have made it difficult for banks to offer quality services to their customers. As a result, cloud computing became an attractive solution.  

Additionally, cloud computing saves money, associated with purchasing and maintaining on-prem hardware and software. 

What to Move to the (Public) Cloud   

Source: Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay   

The first rule of cloud migration is to only migrate what makes sense. 

First, identify what services or applications to move to the cloud. Banks in Africa identified non-critical and non-sensitive applications, such as email, document sharing, and customer relationship management (CRM), as good starting points.  

This cautious approach allows banks to enjoy the benefits of cloud computing while minimizing the risks associated with migrating sensitive applications. Moving non-critical applications to the cloud can provide immediate benefits.  

These applications shouldn’t have customer data and shouldn’t disrupt the bank’s operations. Once the bank has gains experience with these risk-averse applications, it has confidence to gradually move more critical applications to the cloud.  

For example, First Bank of Nigeria initially moved its non-core applications to the cloud before migrating its core banking applications. However, refer to your local regulators; they’re the source of policy on data cloud migration. 

 Services and Features That Typically Get Migrated 

• DATA: Static, SQL, NoSQL, File-stores 

• NETWORK: Topology, VNETS, Subnets, LB4/7, Firewalls, VPNs, Routers, Connectivity, etc. 
• COMPUTE: Applications and servers. 
• DEVOPS: Build, Test, and Deployment processes. 
• SECURITY: WAFs, Security groups, isolation, peering, secrets, keys, certificates, monitoring, etc. 
• BUDGET: Controls and Monitoring 

• OBSERVABILITY and SRE: Monitoring, Logging, Tracing, Alerts, Incident Management, Patching, etc. 
• IAM: Users, Roles, Groups, Privileges, AD/LDAP, etc. 
• CONTROL: Management and Oversight. 

Migration Use Cases— When Do Businesses Migrate? 

Migration use cases are specific scenarios or situations where businesses may need to migrate their IT infrastructure and services to the cloud. 

These scenarios can vary depending on the type of business and the current state of their IT infrastructure.  

Various factors can drive cloud migration and technical scenarios, including: 

1. Data 

2. Infrastructure 

3. Applications 

Data Migration 

1. Static Data: BLOB (Binary Large OBject or basic large object) migrate using online transfer such as UPLOAD, RSYNCH (remote sync) methods and offline methods like transfer appliances or archival media depending on their size. 

2. File Data: Files and Directory data migrate using online transfer such as SMD (Signed Mark Data), UPLOAD, RSYNCH, and offline methods like transfer appliances or archival media depending on its size. 

3. (No)SQL Data: Database data should be exported and imported and “synching” through ETL methods, migration utilities, database file transfer, and virtualization lift and shift. 

Infrastructure and Application Migration 

It is usually the most manually intensive, requiring mapping physical infrastructure and topology to cloud provider-specific IaaS.  

A typical approach might be the computer service migration which migrates application servers, applications, and server clusters to the cloud.  

It is not just about migrating infrastructure but also refactoring service architectures for the cloud as well.  

Common approaches are: 

1. Rehost: this is a lift and shift approach used to mirror existing servers “as-is” to the cloud. You virtualize the on-premises host and upload images to the cloud. Then, you create instance groups from those cloud image(s). In this case, you can use on-prem migration utilities from some cloud providers to guide the process. This is the easiest migration to do but does not take full advantage of cloud architecture. 

2. Re-platform: This is the migration of services to similar cloud-native technologies. For instance, application services like web servers, web APIs, and REST applications can be dockerized and hosted on container engines like Kubernetes. Then, you deploy them directly onto cloud-managed application sandboxes. However, application binary is not refactored, it is deployed “as-is” to a cloud-managed service. 

3. Refactor: Refactoring is about refactoring application architecture to fit the best available cloud services. This approach is dependent on architecture but would most likely include things like: 

• Decomposing application logic into appropriate microservices or macro services 
• Dockerizing and deploying to container services like Kubernetes 
• Using native messaging and event services to provide inter-service communication 

Containerization and Kubernetes 

Docker and Kubernetes are two critical technologies everyone needs to know to benefit from migrating applications to the cloud. 

Containerization 

Docker is a tool that lets you create small and portable packages of all the software that your application needs to run. These packages are called “images.” 

Once you create an image, you can run it on any computer that supports Docker. This makes it easy to move your application from one computer to another. 

Docker images are much smaller than traditional virtual machine images, and they are easy to scale up or down. This means you can run your application on many different computers at once. 

Docker is an important tool for modern cloud-based applications, but it can be used on any computer. 

Kubernetes 

One of the most popular container orchestrators is called Kubernetes, and it’s used by a lot of companies to help them run their applications on the cloud.   

This type of tool is important when running your applications on a cloud platform.  This is because it can help you take advantage of things like scalability (being able to easily add more resources when you need them), managed services (where the cloud provider takes care of some of the work for you), and cost savings. 

Source: Cloud Migration Strategy by Alexander Wagner  

Planning 

Source: Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay   

Cloud migration involves moving data, infrastructure, and applications to managed cloud services, such as infrastructure as a service (IaaS) or platform as a service (PaaS).  

To ensure a successful cloud migration strategy, businesses must consider technical and business objectives and prioritize incremental migration based on business priorities.  

They can use “rehost,” “re-platform,” or hybrid cloud strategies to minimize the work involved in the migration process.  

Refactoring migrated services to optimize their use of the cloud is not always necessary, but it can be done gradually in small bits to gain benefits.  

Becoming cloud-native is crucial for business success, as cloud-native services are designed to take advantage of the features and capabilities of the cloud, such as scalability, high availability, and elasticity. 

Strategies for cloud migration include the 6-Rs approach: 

• Rehost (Lift and shift): virtualize and move services “as is” to the Cloud. They are usually used for proprietary application services like web or on-premises applications. 
• Re-platform: move on-prem services “as is” to the Cloud using cloud-native alternatives—e.g., cloud-managed databases. It can also include moving to PaaS services. 

• Repurchase: move services (where available) to a SaaS offering. 
• Refactor: partially or fully redesign the service architecture best to use cloud-native services, e.g., microservices. 
• Retain: keep some services—usually legacy or highly custom backends—where they are. 
• Retire: replace existing services with cloud-native services as much as possible. 

It is essential to monitor and manage the cloud environment throughout the entire project, which typically includes several key stages, such as: 

1. Discovery- defines the business and technical case/scope, plus assets to migrate (scope of migration, business due diligence, technical due diligence, and Asset and discovery) 

2. Assessment– plans the migration and see potential methods of execution (business assessment technical assessment and poc(s) migration and backlog and MVP migration planning and approval) 

3. Migration- runs the planned migration steps, both technical and organizational (Technical Migration, Organization Migration (Processes and Structures), Stabilization, Prep handover to SRE/OPs) 

4. State Running- runs team maintenance going forward (SRE/DevOps team(s) manage as Business Impacts  

Like any organizational change, potential impacts need to be considered. The impact depends on the adopted approach and the migrated or transformed applications’ architecture. 

Positive  

1. Cheaper Costs: Customers only pay for what they use (metered service).  

2. Managed Services: Patching, upgrades, availability, etc., of services, are managed for customers.  

3. Elasticity: Services can scale automatically based on demand.  

4. SRE (Site reliability engineering): Supporting technologies like monitoring, tracing, DRaaS, etc., are provided for customers and can be more closely integrated out of the box.  

5. Control: Customers can choose the level of control that they want using IaaS and PaaS.  

6. Empowerment: Teams can potentially own their services all the way into production.  

Negative  

1. Reskilling: Organizational reskilling is required for IT functions.  

2. Control: There is some loss of control over the environment.  

3. Processes: Business practices and structures may have to change or adapt to better support the Cloud (DevOps and Ops/SRE).  

4. Refactoring: Applications and services may need to be refactored to better use “modern” architectural patterns.  

5. SRE: Existing solutions for monitoring and recovery may need to be replaced as well, as the increasing cost.  

6. Downtime: Downtime for the migration might be an issue. 

What to Leave On-Prem (Private Cloud) 

The second rule of cloud migration is migration can be done incrementally. 

Although cloud computing offers numerous benefits to banks, some processes are better left on-prem. Processes that require high levels of security or regulatory compliance, such as payment processing or Know Your Customer (KYC), should remain on-prem.  

This ensures that sensitive information is not compromised while providing banks with the benefits of cloud computing. After all local African cybersecurity policy and enforcement is underdeveloped. 

The third rule of cloud migration is hybrid cloud approaches allow the “best of both worlds.” 

However, banks can still leverage the cloud’s benefits by implementing hybrid cloud solutions, where sensitive applications are kept on-prem while non-sensitive applications are moved to the cloud. 

Navigating Compliance 

Banks in Africa adhere to strict regulatory requirements. Therefore, compliance is a critical part of cloud computing. Banks must ensure their cloud providers meet the required regulatory standards and compliant with local and international laws.  

For example, the Nigerian Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) requires banks to store customer data within the country’s borders. Banks must, therefore, partner with cloud providers within Nigeria to comply with the NDPR. 

Another example is, the South Africa Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 requires cloud providers to implement appropriate security measures to protect personal data.  

Other Commonwealth countries like Kenya borrowed their cloud policies from the UK, General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Banks’ customers in those countries have more control over their data.  

Monitoring Cloud Performance  

Source: Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay   

As African banks continue to adopt cloud technology, it’s crucial that they establish effective monitoring practices. These will ensure the security and efficiency of their private and hybrid cloud environments. 

Auditing access controls, user activities, and system configurations for their private clouds can prevent unauthorized access or data breaches. 

Also, they should manage data transfers between on-premises and cloud environments. Monitoring performance metrics such as response times and availability are also essential for hybrid clouds. This practice maintains data integrity and complies with regulatory requirements.  

For instance, a bank that uses a hybrid cloud might need to monitor data transfers between its on-premises financial system (FS) and its cloud-based customer relationship management system CRM) to ensure the privacy and security of sensitive financial information.  

Automated tools and trained personnel can help with monitoring and promptly responding to incidents, thereby reducing risks and maximizing the benefits of cloud technologies. 

Security 

Source: Image by ambercoin from Pixabay   

Cybercrimes affect all countries, but weak networks and security make countries in Africa particularly vulnerable. 

Throughout the entire project, it is essential to continuously monitor and manage the cloud environment to ensure that it remains secure, cost-effective, and aligned with the business objectives.  

Monitoring involves ongoing maintenance and support, as well as periodic optimization and updates to the infrastructure and applications. The typical methodology for a cloud migration involves several key stages, including:   

1. Analysis of technical and business needs 

2. Planning and evaluation of resources 

3. Design and construction 

4. Testing 

5. Migration 

6. Monitoring 

While Africa has an estimated 500 million Internet users- 38% of the total population- leaving huge potential for growth. Additionally, Africa has the fastest growing telephone and Internet networks in the world and makes the widest use of mobile banking services. 

This digital demand, coupled with a lack of cybersecurity policies and standards, exposes online services to major risks.  

As African countries move to incorporate digital infrastructure into all aspects of society – including government, banking, business and critical infrastructure. Therefore, it is crucial to put a robust cybersecurity framework into place. 

“Not only do criminals exploit vulnerabilities in cyber security across the region, but they also take advantage of variations in law enforcement capabilities across physical borders,” said Craig Jones, INTERPOL’s Director of Cybercrime. 

Importance of Localized Support  

Source: Image by John Hain from Pixabay   

Banks in Africa require local support from their cloud providers to address the region’s unique challenges.  

Local support ensures that the cloud provider understands the local regulatory requirements, infrastructure challenges, and cultural differences.  

Cloud providers must also offer local language support and have a local presence to provide quick response times. For example, Oracle and Microsoft, a cloud provider, have established a data center in South Africa 

How Can we Help? 

Banks across Africa are adopting various digital transformation trends to enhance scalability and streamline core operational areas.  

Many businesses are unaware of cloud migration projects and related services, as they require a complete transition and a well-crafted plan.  

However, the latest cloud migration tools can fully streamline the migration process. This is where Finsense Africa comes in to create a roadmap and consult on industry best practices before projects start.  

Access to IT resources and services without the burden of owning and maintaining the underlying infrastructure is one of the many benefits of migrating to the cloud. However, the existing infrastructure should have capacity to support migration and seamless hybrid cloud. 

Sources: 

1. INTERPOL Report Identifies Top Cyberthreats in Africa 

2. “Cloud Computing in Africa: A Guide for Business Leaders” by Deloitte Africa 

3. “How to Approach Cloud Migration in the Financial Services Industry” by Infosys 

4. “Cloud Computing for Financial Services: A Blueprint for the Future” by Microsoft 

5.  “Cloud Computing in Banking: A Strategic Assessment” by The Asian Banker 

6. “African banks warm to cloud as local support grows” by ITWeb Africa 

Top organizations use open source they include Google, Facebook, Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, Twitter, Red Hat, Uber, Airbnb, and Netflix.  

Why are banks and hedge funds suddenly into open source. Past practices have indicated that banks are very competitive and cautious of their proprietary data.  

Since they handle confidential data, they’ve been expected to keep secrets. For example, in 2009 Goldman Sachs had an employee jailed for allegedly stealing their proprietary software.   

However, 8 years later in 2017 Goldman Sachs launched three of its latest open-source projects – Jrpip, Obevo and Tablasco – on GitHub. They also have an in-house language, Legend, that is now open source. 

In the creation and use of open-source tech-based companies outperform financial businesses. For instance, Google has 70 open-source projects. The largest of them all is Android which is 75% of what all smart phones use.  

Why Organizations Choose Open-Source  

As a result, banks in 2023 will increasingly adopt open-source technology, as they are under pressure to innovate and remain competitive. This shift is driven by a desire to gain access to new and emerging technologies, such as machine learning and blockchain, to improve customer experience and reduce operating costs.  

Banks are opting for open-source technology because 

1. Cost Savings: Open source saves costs by eliminating the need to pay for expensive proprietary software licenses and reducing development costs by leveraging existing open-source solutions. 

2. Customization: It can be customized to fit an organization’s unique needs, as opposed to proprietary software which may be more rigid. 

3. Security: Is more secure because vulnerabilities can be quickly identified and addressed by the community of developers. 

4. Innovation: Foster innovation by allowing organizations to collaborate and share ideas with others in the community. 

5. Reliability: Open source has proven to be reliable and stable in mission-critical applications. For example, the Linux operating system is widely used in mission-critical applications such as space missions and stock exchanges. 

6. Community Support: Open-source communities can guide and assist organizations with their projects, including bug fixes and development advice. The Apache web server project is an example of a project that benefits from a large and active developer community for ongoing support 

7. Future Outlook: More organizations are likely to adopt open-source solutions, like Red Hat Enterprise Linux, which provides a secure and stable operating system that can be tailored to meet specific business needs. 

In addition, open-source software is flexible to customize to specific needs. This allows banks to develop innovative applications that leverage the latest technologies, such as AI and machine learning, to understand customer behavior and anticipate their financial needs.  

Real-Life examples of Open-Source Technology Adoption 

One example of open-source technology being adopted by banks is the operating system Linux. Banks such as ING, UBS and JPMorgan Chase have implemented Linux powered systems to better manage their IT infrastructure. They use it to:  

1. Host their IT infrastructure and provide a secure computing environment. 

2. Develop custom applications, such as mobile banking and digital wallets.  

Other open-source projects that are popular in the banking sector include: 

1. Apache Kafka, an event streaming platform 

2. Hadoop, a big data analytics platform 

Historically banks have been hesitant to adopt open-source software; where software source code is shared and made freely available). With traditional vendors like IBM, TIBCO, Oracle strongly positioned in this industry, the move to open source has been slow.  

In recent years, forced by a rapidly changing business, banks are transforming their IT organizations considerably, adopting new technologies and methodologies like Cloud, microservices, Open APIs, DevOps, Agile and Open Source. Because often the above adoptions enforce each other. 

The Open-Source movement has reached maturity. While 5-10 years ago, it was associated with computer-nerds, idealists and small start-ups, today it is mainstream. The recent acquisitions of open-source companies by large established corporate tech-vendors is the best proof of this evolution: 

• SalesForce bought MuleSoft for $6.5 billion in March 2018 
• Microsoft bought GitHub for $7.5 billion in October 2018. 

• IBM purchased Red Hat for $34 billion in 2019 

At the same time these incumbent tech players are adopting open-source strategies themselves. For example, Microsoft, initially one of the most guarded, has adopted an open-source strategy, since Satya Nadella became CEO in 2014. Examples of its open-source technologies include: 

• Edge: The Edge browser is switching to the Google based open-source chromium platform 
• .NET framework: the full .NET framework was open-sourced on Git-Hub 
• Windows 10: built on open-source Progressive Web App technology 

• Windows 11: analysts speculate that the NT kernel would be (gradually) replaced by the Linux kernel 
• Azure platform: the most used operating system on Microsoft Azure is not Windows Server, but rather Linux 
• Open-source contribution: Microsoft has become the largest contributor to open source in the world. It is more active than the second most active contributor, Google. There are 20,000 Microsoft employees on GitHub and over 2,000 open-source projects 

The Different Stages of Open-Source Adoption 

Open-source software has many benefits for banks, but it requires a cultural shift in the whole organization, which takes time and intensive change management. 

Banks can start adopting open-source software in different ways. They can start by using open-source software where possible, either as full solutions or as components they combine to build custom applications. 

As they become more familiar with open-source software, banks can start contributing back to the community by identifying bugs and implementing valuable features. By doing so, banks improve their corporate image and benefit from future testing and extensions by the community. 

The final step is to open the bank’s existing proprietary software, which is the most complex and time intensive.  

First, banks fear their code will be scrutinized in public, resulting in a brand risk and potentially exposing security issues. Additionally, some bank leaders may fear giving away competitive advantage. 

Second, depending on the kind of open-source software. How complex is it?  Banks should first gain experience with low-level abstraction open-source software, like: 

1. Databases (MySQL, Mongo DB, Cassandra and Postgres),  

2. Middleware (WSO2, Kafka, Apache Camel, Envoy, Istio)  

3. Operating systems (Linux and Kubernetes)  

Gradually they can move up the stack to higher level of abstractions, like: 

1. Business process (jBPM)  

2. Task management tools 

Finally, they can use also open source for the financial core processes. These include, Cyclos, Mifos X / Apache Fineract, MyBanco, Jainam Software, OpenCBS, OpenBankProject, Cobis, OpenBankIT, Mojaloop).  

Contributing to Open-Source  

Ultimately the banks’ software should have at its core open-source software, except for solutions exclusively offered via SaaS. 

Many banks already use open-source software and prefer it over proprietary software. More banks are contributing to open-source projects or open-sourcing their own software. Some examples of such banks include: 

• Capital One’s, one of the largest credit card companies in the US, has been on a digital transformation journey over the past 6 years. 
• Goldman Sachs recently open sourced its proprietary data modeling program Alloy 
• J.P. Morgan Chase released code on GitHub for multiple initiatives; its Quorum blockchain project. 

• Deutsche Bank open-sourced multiple projects, like Plexus Interop (from its electronic trading platform Autobahn) or Waltz (IT estate management 

The Dilemma of Open-Sourcing In-House Software 

The move of some banks to open-source proprietary software seems strange at first sight, as intelligent software has become the competitive edge of any bank. Nonetheless banks have a lot to gain in using (adopting) open source and contributing to it: 

5 Benefits of using open-source software: 

1. Lower costs: avoid the exuberant annual software license costs paid to software vendors. 

2. Reduce time-to-market: allowing developers to bolt together pre-existing modules rather than having to create them all from scratch, allows to considerably reduce development time. 

3. Easily customizable: open-source software can be customized, allowing to provide the golden means between buying a software package from a vendor (quick time-to-market, but limited customization possibilities) and internally custom-built software. 

4. No vendor lock-in 

5. Lower learning curve for new joiner 

7 Benefits of Contributing to Open-Source Software: 

1. Good for corporate image through giving back to the community. 

2. Transparency: open-source software is intrinsically more secure than proprietary software, where the code is kept a secret. 

3. Easier hiring of resources, as IT resources like to work on open-source and good potential candidates can be identified by looking at public commits of externals to the bank’s open-source projects 

4. Motivation: often IT resources at banks feel a lack of social commitment. Contributing back to open sources can give them a feeling of pride and giving back to community. 

5. Cultural accelerator: open-source communities promote collaboration, almost always remote and often across different time zones and cultures. Collaborating in such an environment will make the bank IT department better and more adapted for future evolutions. 

6. Gain from testing and extensions built by contributors outside the bank 

7. Facilitates collaboration between different banks on shared concerns like KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) 

5 Fears of Making In-House Software Open-Source  

Even though open source has many advantages, there are still some banks that are hesitant to use it. These banks are especially hesitant to contribute to open source or share their own software. Here are some reasons: 

1. Contractual and legal: Various types of open-source software license models exist which can make it challenging for large banks to comply with all the terms and conditions. But tools like FOSSA, DejaCode, WhiteSource, Code Janitor help monitor and follow-up the compliance on open-source licenses. 

2. Support: Banks worry about a lack of support when using open-source tools. However, many open-source tools offer corporate support. If not, the bank IT teams should engage with the open-source community to resolve an issue. 

3. Compliance and security: There are risks when publishing source code on the internet that criminals can find loopholes in the code. While open-sourcing code ultimately leads to more secure software. 

4. Losing Competitive advantage: Most internal banking software is commodity software that doesn’t provide any differentiation. Open sourcing these applications can free up resources to work on real value-added services. 

5. Brand risk: Banks are concerned that open-sourcing bad software can harm corporate branding 

How Does Open-Source affect FinTech  

If banks start using a lot of open-source software, will FinTech’s new software services offer to banks, fail?  

Fortunately, fintech has already moved from an annual license model to newer partnership models. Using cloud technology and Open APIs has made it hard to justify annual licenses.  

Partnership models are now used instead of software license costs. These include: 

• PaaS (Platform as a Service), SaaS (Software as a Service) and Baas (Business as a Service) models 
• “Open core” models (also called Dual licensing). Here, the core of the software is delivered for free and open source. However, the tooling for large corporations are license based 
• Support model: pay a party for access to a support desk and providing updates on when new versions should be installed 
• Service model for profits; training services, implementation services, customizations to the open-source software at request of the banks. 

Making an open system of collaboration between FinTech and banks will lead to better services for everyone. Banks should understand that technology is important for their business.  

They should learn from the big technology companies by hiring the best people, using existing software, and supporting quick changes with DevOps and Agile methods. Banks can use open-source strategies to achieve this goal. 

References: 

1. Why banking is just now embracing open source technology  

2.  Banks are finally embracing the Open Source movement  

3. banking and payments 2023 – Retail Banker International 

4. Banks Are Embracing Open Source  

5. Banks Turn To Open Source Technology 

6. The 2022 State of Open Source in Financial Services 

Source: Atul Kumal from Linkedin 

APIs can bring value to a company by helping with innovation and development, but only a few can make money directly. A good API strategy can help simplify things and save money in the long run. To build a successful API strategy, consider these steps: 

1. Decide on the strategy based on the business, target audience, and API usage. 

2. Organize APIs based on data sensitivity, importance, and usage. 

3. Make sure the APIs you choose are valuable. 

4. Set up different portals, security measures, and paths for internal and external users. 

5. Measure the success of your APIs using metrics. 

6. Have a service level agreement policy that considers your backend capacity. 

Having a clear API strategy can help simplify things and save money in the long term. It also has these benefits: 

1. Helps you understand things faster 

2. Gives you confidence in your investments 

3. Makes things more flexible 

4. Prevents things from getting too complicated 

5. Let’s communicate changes easily across the company. 

Source is API Expert David Roldan  

An Introduction to Monetizing APIs in the Banking Industry  

The African banking industry has been rapidly evolving in recent years, with a growing emphasis on digital transformation and innovative financial technology solutions.  

One area that is gaining traction in the region is the monetization of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) in the banking sector.  

APIs are the building blocks that enable financial institutions to expose their systems and data to third-party developers, who can then create new financial products and services based on this data.  

By monetizing their APIs, banks can generate new revenue streams, enhance their brand, and improve customer engagement.  

An example of this in Africa is the Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), which has been a leader in the use of open APIs in the region. The bank has made its APIs available to developers, allowing them to create innovative financial products and services based on KCB’s data and systems.  

This has helped the bank to increase its revenue and improve its customer engagement, as well as enhancing its reputation as a forward-thinking financial institution.  

Another African bank that has embraced the monetization of APIs is Standard Bank Group, based in South Africa. The bank has created a platform called Open API that enables developers to build new financial products and services using Standard Bank’s systems and data.  

This has helped the bank to generate new revenue streams and improve its customer engagement, while also establishing it as a leader in the field of API monetization.  

In conclusion, the monetization of APIs in the African banking industry is a growing trend that has the potential to bring significant benefits to financial institutions in the region.  

By making their systems and data available to developers, banks create new revenue streams, enhance their brand, and improve customer engagement, while also contributing to the development of the African financial technology ecosystem. 

The Benefits of Open Banking for Banks and Financial Institutions  

Open banking is a financial system where banks and other financial institutions make customer data accessible to authorized third-party providers. This allows customers to manage their financial information and payments through a variety of apps and services (multi-channel). 

 In the African banking industry, open banking gained significant traction in recent years.  It is poised to revolutionize the way banks and financial institutions operate.  

In this section, let’s explore the key benefits of open banking for banks and financial institutions in Africa. 

1. Improved Customer Experience: Open banking enables banks to offer customers a more seamless and convenient banking experience. For example, customers can access their financial information and make payments from a single app, without having to log into multiple bank accounts. This results in a better user experience and increased customer satisfaction. 

2. Increased Efficiency: Open banking allows banks to automate many manual processes, such as account opening and loan application. This results in increased efficiency and reduces operational costs. 

3. Enhanced Security: Open banking mandates strict security measures, such as two-factor authentication and encryption, to protect customer data. This enhances security and reduces the risk of fraud. 

4. New Revenue Streams: Open banking enables banks to partner with fintech companies and offer new and innovative financial services. This creates new revenue streams and helps banks stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. 

5. Improved Data Analytics: Open banking allows banks to access a wealth of customer data, which can be used to gain insights into customer behavior and preferences. This information can be used to improve product offerings and target customers more effectively. 

Examples from the African banking industry show the potential benefits of open banking. For example, Standard Bank in South Africa has partnered with fintech company TymeBank to offer customers a new way to bank.  

The partnership has enabled Standard Bank to reach a new customer base and offer innovative financial services. Another example is Absa Bank in Kenya, which has implemented open banking to streamline its operations and offer customers a more convenient banking experience. 

References: 

TymeBank ropes in TFG to expand its footprint 

Strategies for Monetizing APIs in the Financial Services Industry  

Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) have become a crucial aspect of the financial services industry. They enable banks and other financial institutions to offer customers seamless and innovative services. 

 In the African banking industry, APIs have the potential to unlock significant revenue streams, but realizing this potential requires careful planning and execution.  

In this section, we’ll explore some of the strategies for monetizing APIs in the African financial services industry. 

1. Charge for Access: One of the simplest ways to monetize APIs is to charge for access. Banks can charge third-party developers and fintech companies for access to their APIs. This enables them to offer new and innovative financial services to customers. 

2. Offer Premium Features: Banks can offer premium features through their APIs, such as enhanced security and increased transaction limits. These premium features can be offered at an additional cost. This provides a new revenue stream for banks. 

3. Leverage Data: APIs provide banks with access to valuable customer data, which can be used to gain insights into customer behavior and preferences. This data can be monetized by selling it to third-party companies or using it to develop targeted marketing campaigns. 

4. Partner with Fintechs: Banks can partner with fintech companies to offer new and innovative financial services through their APIs. This creates new revenue streams and helps banks stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. 

Statistics show the growing importance of APIs in the African financial services industry. 

 For example, a recent study found that the number of fintech companies in Africa has increased by 50% in the past five years, driven in part by the increasing use of APIs.  

Another study found that the value of the African fintech market is expected to reach $2.2 billion by 2023, driven by the growth of APIs.  

Examples from the African banking industry demonstrate the potential of monetizing APIs.  

For example, Standard Bank in South Africa has developed a comprehensive API platform that enables third-party developers to build financial services on top of its platform.  

This has allowed the bank to generate new revenue streams and offer innovative services to customers.  

Another example is Absa Bank in Kenya, which has implemented a robust API platform that enables it to partner with fintech companies and offer new financial services.  

The Future of Banking with Open Banking and APIs  

The African banking industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, driven by technological advancements, increased competition, and changing customer needs.  

The introduction of open banking and APIs has further transformed the industry, providing new opportunities for growth and innovation. 

 APIs, or application programming interfaces, are a key component of open banking, providing secure and efficient connections between different systems and platforms. 

In Africa, the adoption of open banking and APIs has been slow compared to other regions, but it is gradually gaining momentum.  

A recent survey of African banks found that only 17% currently offer open banking services, but nearly 60% plan to do so within the next two years. This indicates a strong demand for these services and a recognition of their importance for the future of the banking industry.  

Some of the benefits include: 

1. Increased competition and innovation. By allowing third-party providers to access financial data, banks can better understand their customers’ needs. They also align preferences and offer more personalized and relevant products and services. This, in turn, leads to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. 

2. Increased efficiency and cost savings. By using APIs, banks can automate many processes, such as account opening and customer onboarding. This reduces the time and resources required to perform these tasks. This leads to lower costs and improved profitability for banks, as well as faster and more convenient services for customers. 

Real-World Examples of Banks Monetizing APIs and Open Banking 

 The implementation of open banking and APIs has provided a new avenue for banks to monetize their services.  

Real-world examples of banks monetizing APIs and open banking in Africa exist, showcasing the potential of this new technology. 

1. Charge third-party providers for access to their data and services. For example, a bank may offer API access to its payment’s infrastructure. This allows third-party providers to build new financial products and services that integrate with the bank’s platform. In exchange, the bank may charge a fee for each API call made by the third-party provider. 

2. Offer premium services to customers. For example, a bank may offer customers access to their financial data through an API. Hence customers easily manage their finances and make better-informed decisions. The bank can charge a fee for these premium services, providing a new revenue stream. 

Regulators have an important role to play in supporting the monetization of APIs and open banking in the African banking industry.  

Regulators are responsible for establishing standards for data protection and security, ensuring that customer data is handled in a safe and secure manner.  

Regulators can also encourage innovation by supporting the development of new financial products and services that make use of open banking and APIs. 

Regulators also have a critical role to play in ensuring the success of this new technology, by establishing clear standards and practices.  

Preparing for the Future of Banking with a Strong API Strategy 

To remain competitive in an increasingly crowded marketplace, banks in Africa must prepare for the future of banking by developing a strong API strategy.  

This includes investing in technology, training employees, and establishing partnerships with third-party providers to drive innovation and growth.  

By embracing APIs and open banking, banks can position themselves for success in the years to come. 

Source: Pixabay 

Understanding the Role of APIs in Digital Transformation of Banking:  

APIs have emerged as a critical component of digital transformation in the banking industry: 

• Helping banks connect and integrate different systems and platforms. 
• Improve customer experiences. 
• Increase efficiency and drive innovation.  

In the African banking industry, the adoption of APIs has gained momentum in recent years, with major banks such as Standard Bank, First National Bank, and Absa Group, among others, leading the way.  

For example, Standard Bank has used APIs to launch its “Open Up” platform, which enables businesses to access its financial services programmatically. 

Best Practices for Securing APIs in the Banking Industry: 

With the increasing use of APIs in the banking industry, it is imperative to ensure their security to protect sensitive customer information and maintain public trust. 

Best practices for securing APIs in the banking industry include implementing robust: 

•  Authentication and authorization processes 
• Using encryption to secure sensitive data 
• Regularly monitoring and testing API security 

 For example, Absa Group has put in place robust API security measures, including multi-factor authentication and data encryption, to ensure the security of its API-powered services. 

Navigating the Legal and Regulatory Landscape of Open Banking and APIs in Banking:  

The legal and regulatory landscape of open banking and APIs in the banking industry can be complex and challenging to navigate, with different countries having different laws and regulations. 

 Banks in Africa must be aware of these laws and regulations, including data protection regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), And the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPI) in South Africa, to ensure compliance and offer secure and reliable API services to their customers. 

The Intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Open Banking in Banking:  

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and open banking has the potential to revolutionize the banking industry by providing customers with personalized financial advice, improving the efficiency of banking processes, and reducing costs.  

For example, Standard Bank has integrated AI into its open banking platform, enabling customers to access personalized financial advice and recommendations based on their unique financial situation. 

The Impact of Open Banking on Consumer Banking Services had ensured more financial inclusion and autonomy. 

For example, First National Bank has leveraged open banking and APIs to launch its “FNB Connect” platform, which allows customers to manage their finances, make payments, and access financial services from a single platform. 

Banks in Africa that embrace these technologies will be well positioned to take advantage of new opportunities for growth and innovation.  

For example, Ecobank, one of the largest pan-African banks, has used APIs to launch its “Ecobank Fintech” platform, which provides access to a range of financial services and 

SOURCES: 

A road map to inclusion: open banking in africa 

Source: Cost of Data Center Outages WP FINAL 2 (ponemon.org) 

Discover the secret to banking infrastructure success in this blog post. 

Learn about 5 common pain points & how to fix them. Prevent costly downtime & improve systems performance with regular infrastructure reviews.  

Best practices for large enterprises in the African banking industry. Stay ahead of the curve, protect data, save money, & stay competitive. 

5 Common Infrastructure Pain Points and How to Fix Them 

Banks use technology a lot. It’s important to keep their systems working well. Sometimes, problems happen. Here are 5 common problems and ways to fix them: 

1. Scalability: When a business grows, their systems need to grow too. A cloud-based system can help with this. 

2. Downtime: When systems are down, it costs the business money and time. A disaster recovery plan to fix problems quickly can help. 

3. Security: Hackers try to break into systems. A security information and event management (SIEM) system can help detect and stop them. 

4. Complexity: As systems get more advanced, it can be hard to manage them. A simpler system, preferably on the cloud, can make this easier. 

5. Cost: It’s expensive to maintain and upgrade systems. A pay-as-you-go system can save money. 

By fixing these problems, a business can make their systems work better and make more money. 

Source : The Business Value of Hybrid Cloud with VMware 

References: 

• “The Cost of Downtime” by the Ponemon Institute, Cost of Data Center Outages WP FINAL 2 (ponemon.org) 
• “The Business Value of the Connected Cloud” by IDC and VMWare,  

Prevent Problems: The Importance of Regular Infrastructure Reviews 

Source: Cost of Data Center Outages WP FINAL 2 (ponemon.org) 

Imagine saving money, protecting systems and data, and staying competitive all at once. Regular infrastructure reviews make this a reality. These reviews test the security, scalability, and health of your systems. They also identify and address potential issues before they become major problems. 

Don’t let costly downtime and repairs hold you back. A study by the Ponemon Institute found that the average cost of unplanned downtime is $5,600 per minute. Regular infrastructure reviews help identify and address issues early on. 

Cybersecurity threats are evolving, leaving your business vulnerable to attacks. Reviews identify vulnerabilities and install best practices to protect your systems and data. 

Stay ahead of the curve with regular infrastructure reviews. As technology advances, it’s important to meet the demands of your customers. These reviews identify improvements and help you stay competitive in the market. 

Unlock the hidden potential of your banking infrastructure with regular reviews. Protect your systems and data, save money, and stay competitive in the market all at once. 

Infrastructure Review Best Practices for Large Enterprises 

Conducting regular infrastructure reviews is crucial for large enterprises in the banking industry. As more banks adopt technology, there is a need for a robust and reliable infrastructure.  

In this section, let’s look at some best practices for conducting infrastructure reviews. Especially for large enterprises in the African banking industry. 

1. Regular Audits: Banks should conduct annual regular infrastructure reviews. These reviews ensure systems’ security, performance, and availability. 

2. Risk Assessment: Conduct a risk assessment as part of the review process. Identify potential vulnerabilities and the likelihood of exploitation. This will focus on and address the most critical issues. 

3. Compliance: Banks adhere to various regulations such as (CBN Central Bank of Nigeria). For example, the CBN’s guidelines on Cybersecurity in the Nigerian banking industry. Hence, infrastructure reviews should have a compliance check to meet all regulatory requirements. 

4. Automation: Consider implementing automation in the infrastructure review process. Automation reduces human error, improves monitoring, and allows response to issues faster. 

5. Stakeholder involvement: Involve stakeholders from different departments of the bank. This will ensure consideration for all needs and tailor the solutions. 

6. Test Disaster recovery plans: Test disaster recovery plans. Test them at least and update them as necessary. This will ensure that the bank can recover from any disruptions. 

References: 

• The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) guidelines on Cybersecurity in the Nigerian banking industry” 
• The Importance of Regular IT Audits for Banks” by the Association of Chartered Accountants. 

How to Conduct a Successful Infrastructure Audit 

Source: Image by Tumisu from Pixabay  

A successful infrastructure audit is crucial ensures safety and security of customers’ data and transactions. Here’s a step-by-step procedure for conducting an infrastructure audit: 

1. Plan audit process, including objectives, scope, and team members. 

2. Assess risks to identify vulnerabilities and prioritize issues. 

3. Collect data on current infrastructure to identify weaknesses. 

4. Ensure compliance with regulations like CBN’s Cybersecurity guidelines. 

5. Test systems, including disaster recovery and network connectivity. 

6. Report findings and recommendations for improvement. 

7. Implement changes to improve infrastructure. 

8. Regularly monitor and review infrastructure to ensure efficiency and security. 

 Regular audits ensure safety and security of customer data and compliance with regulations in African banking industry. 

Infrastructure as Code: A Review of the Pros and Cons 

Source: Image by Dirk Wouters from Pixabay  

Infrastructure as code (IAC) provides and manages IT through the use of code. This approach allows for automation, consistency, and repeatability in the management of infrastructure. While IAC has many benefits, it also has its drawbacks and may not be the best fit for every organization. 

In this section, let’s look at the pros and cons of IAC. Also, examples of organizations from the African continent that have implemented this approach. 

Pros: 

1. Automation: IAC allows for automation in management and deployment. This saves time and reduces errors. 

2. Consistency: By using code to manage infrastructure, organizations ensure consistency, which improves reliability. 

3. Version control: IAC tracks changes to their infrastructure. As a result, they roll back to previous versions if necessary. 

4. Scalability: Organizations scale their infrastructure with IAC. This is essential for organizations that are growing or experiencing increased demand. 

Cons: 

1. Complexity: IAC is complex. Hence it requires a high level of technical expertise to deploy and maintain. 

2. Learning curve: Organizations need to invest time and resources in training employees. Both on how to use IAC tools and best practices. 

3. Limited flexibility: IAC may not serve organizations needing flexibility in their infrastructure. 

Examples of African organizations that have implemented IAC include: 

1. Standard Bank of South Africa: Standard Bank is one of the largest banks in Africa. They have implemented IAC to manage their infrastructure. This enabled them to automate their infrastructure availability and increase their reliability. 

2. Safaricom: Safaricom is a leading mobile network operator in Kenya. They have implemented IAC to manage their infrastructure. This move has enabled them to scale their infrastructure. 

3. MTN: MTN is one of the largest telecommunications companies in Africa. They implemented IAC to manage their infrastructure. They automated their infrastructure and increase the reliability of their systems. 

If organizations have technical expertise and willing to invest in training. IAC can bring significant benefits such as automation, consistency, and scalability. 

References: 

• “Infrastructure as Code: Managing Servers in the Cloud” by O’Reilly Media,  
• “Infrastructure as Code: The Future of IT Operations” by Gartner Research,  

Infrastructure in the Cloud: A Review of the Leading Platforms 

The use of cloud computing is growing in Africa, as it offers scalable and flexible infrastructure without the need for expensive hardware.  

The leading cloud platforms in Africa are: 

1. Amazon Web Services (AWS), known for its scalability and security, used by Standard Bank, Jumia, and Andela. 

2. Microsoft Azure, known for security and compliance, used by MTN, UBA, and Ecobank. 

3. Google Cloud Platform (GCP), known for scalability and performance, used by Safaricom, Cell C, and Union Bank. 

4. Alibaba Cloud, a Chinese provider known for scalability and security.  

When choosing a cloud platform, consider your organization’s specific needs, the region’s support and expertise, and the pricing model.  

Standard Bank of South Africa is an example of a successful cloud implementation, improving scalability and efficiency.  

Consider your organization’s needs when choosing a cloud platform from the leading providers: AWS, Azure, GCP, and Alibaba Cloud. 

References: 

• “The State of Cloud in Africa” by Data Center Dynamics,  
• “The Future of Cloud Computing in Africa” by The Next Web,  
• “Standard Bank: Scaling infrastructure with AWS” by Amazon Web Services,  

The Role of Automation in Streamlining Infrastructure Reviews 

Banking in Africa gets a boost from automation. By using tech like Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), banks can streamline their processes, save money, and enhance customer satisfaction.  

One success story is First National Bank (FNB) in South Africa. They automated account opening and loan review with RPA, cutting processing time and increasing accuracy.  

They’ve also used AI to better manage risk. The results? Lower costs, better efficiency, and happy customers. In 2020, FNB reported a 25% decrease in operational costs, 20% efficiency increase, and 10% rise in customer satisfaction. 

Banking’s Future in Africa: Monitor & Automate for Success 

African banks are ramping up tech investments to streamline operations, reduce costs and enhance customer experience. Key players are adopting Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to automate repetitive tasks, analyze customer data and mitigate risks. 

Real-time data monitoring allows banks to make informed decisions and quickly identify opportunities or challenges. The results speak for themselves: banks adopting these technologies see reduced costs, increased efficiency and improved customer satisfaction 

Disaster Recovery Planning: A Key Element of Infrastructure Review 

Source: Image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay  

Disaster recovery planning (DRP) is crucial for banks in disaster-prone Africa. For example, a study by the International Journal of Information Management found that the average cost of a data center outage for a bank can be as high as $5 million.  

Additionally, a survey conducted by the Federal Reserve found that 60% of small businesses that do not have a disaster recovery plan go out of business within six months of a disaster. 

Banks should have a comprehensive DRP that addresses potential threats and outlines procedures for restoring operations. Measures such as regular backups, testing, and backup sites/mobile units help mitigate risks. 

Standard Bank Group and Kenya Commercial Bank have implemented DRP with regular testing, staff training, and offsite data storage.  

The Standard Bank Group, which has implemented a disaster recovery plan that includes regular testing and training of staff, as well as a mobile recovery unit that can be deployed in the event of a disaster.  

Additionally, Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB)) has a disaster recovery plan that includes offsite storage of data and regular backups to ensure continuity of operations in the event of a disaster. 

Infrastructure review for compliance with various regulations 

African banks struggle with compliance to various regulations, such as cybersecurity, data privacy, and anti-money laundering.  

Only 14% of African banks have a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, putting them at higher risk of cyber-attacks and financial losses.  

Data privacy is also a concern, but the African Union’s Data Protection Directive is still in draft form and has a long way to go for implementation. 

AML compliance is also a challenge, as less than 10% of African banks have fully implemented AML programs, putting them at higher risk of money laundering.  

African banks need to invest in infrastructure to support compliance and protect against financial losses and reputational damage. This includes investing in cybersecurity technologies and practices, data privacy technologies and practices, and robust AML compliance programs. 

Sources: 

1. PwC (2018) “Cybersecurity in Africa: A wake-up call” https://www.pwc.com/za/en/services/advisory/cybersecurity-in-africa-a-wake-up-call.html  

2. African Development Bank (2019) “Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism in Africa” https://www.afdb.org/en/topics-and-sectors/financial-sector-development/anti-money-laundering-and-combating-the-financing-of-terrorism-in-africa/ 

3. “Small Businesses and Cybersecurity: Understanding the Risks” by the National Cyber Security Alliance, https://staysafeonline.org/small-business-cybersecurity-risks/ 

Decision-makers in banking expressed concerns about moving their operations to the cloud. This is understandable. There were recent data breaches during cloud migrations at Capital One and T-Mobile  

Yet, with planning, you can avoid these mistakes and reap the benefits of cloud migration.  

The Cloud Security Alliance conducted a study. They found that organizations had three times the chance of success with a plan. Also, a study by the IBM Institute for Business Value found planning reduced costs by up to 30%. 

In this blog, Banks will learn from the mistakes of others during cloud migration. Banks can also modernize their IT infrastructure and maximize cloud computing. All the while not compromising the security and compliance of sensitive financial data. 

1. Mastering the Art of Cloud Migration: How a Detailed Plan Can Benefit Banks 

The Cloud Security Alliance conducted a study. They found that lack of proper planning is one of the top three causes of cloud migration failure. Organizations with detailed migration plans were three times more likely to be successful. 

This plan should include timelines, milestones, and contingencies to help manage the process. It should also include a thorough assessment of the bank’s current IT infrastructure. That way, any potential roadblocks get addressed early. 

A detailed plan also helps banks to reduce costs and improve efficiency. The IBM Institute for Business Value also did a study. They found that organizations with clear migration plans reduced their costs by up to 30%. 

Cloud migration allows banks to modernize their IT infrastructure and maximize cloud computing. “But, failure to plan can lead to migration failure,” says the Cloud Security Alliance. 

2. Navigating the Cloud: How to Choose the Best Provider for Your Banking Needs 

When choosing a cloud provider for your banking needs, consider the following factors: 

• Data security and compliance with industry regulations 
• Reliability and scalability.  

• The provider’s global network,  
• Provider experience working with financial institutions 
• Pricing and contract terms. 

Some of the top cloud providers in the banking industry include:  

• Amazon Web Services (AWS) 

• Microsoft Azure 
• Google Cloud  

According to a 2020 report by Synergy Research Group. AWS has the largest share of the market. Their infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) and platform-as-a-service (PaaS), had 33% of the market share. Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud followed with 18% and 8% market shares. You can read about this research at this link.  

 
Also, note that large banks have their own private cloud infrastructure. They manage and operate it in-house. 

In the end, the best cloud provider for your needs will depend on your specific requirements. So, analyze your options. Also, a trusted advisor or consultant can help you make an informed decision. 

3. Cloud Migration 101: The Importance of Testing and Training for a Seamless Transition 

Testing allows you to identify and address any issues before the migration goes live. This can include functional testing, performance testing, and security testing. Performing these tests verifies that systems and applications are working as expected. They also identify and address potential problems. 

Another important aspect of successful cloud migration is training. Your employees should get training on the new systems and applications. This includes new cloud platforms, and new or updated software and tools. Training speeds up new technology usage in day-to-day operations.  

The International Data Corporation (IDC) conducted a study. It found that organizations that test and train staff and solutions; enjoy higher returns on investment (ROI). It also indicated an average of 30% faster migration and 25% higher ROI.  

In summary, testing and training are essential components of successful cloud migration. Test your systems and applications and train your employees. You will ensure a smooth transition to the cloud and a higher return on investment. 

4. Cloud Migration for Banks: How to Ensure Compliance and Secure Your Data 

When migrating to the cloud, banks in Africa must consider the following.  

• Various regulations and compliance requirements specific to the region  
• Security of sensitive financial data. 

The first example is the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) guideline on electronic banking. It requires the security and integrity of electronic banking operations. This includes having a disaster recovery plan and incident management plan. Banks must ensure that their cloud provider is compliant with these guidelines. Also, have the necessary controls in place to protect against data breaches. 

The second is the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). It came into force in January 2021. The AfCFTA requires the free movement of goods, services, and people, across borders. Banks must ensure that their cloud provider is compliant with this agreement. Besides, having the necessary controls to protect the personal data of African citizens. 

Additionally, African banks should also adopt these security practices: 

• Encrypting sensitive data both at rest and in transition. 
• Implementing multi-factor authentication for access to cloud systems 
• Monitoring and auditing cloud systems for security vulnerabilities 
• Having a robust incident response plan in place for security incidents. 

Note that in Africa cloud technology adoption is still in its early stages. Thus, banks are learning to navigate the complexity of regulatory compliance and security. African banking security experts or IT consultants are the best advisors on this. 

5. Maximizing Cloud Migration Success: The Importance of Monitoring and Optimizing Your Infrastructure 

Monitoring ensures systems are performing and you have the resources you need. This includes monitoring key metrics such as 

• CPU usage,  

• Memory usage 
• Network traffic 
• Storage usage 

Additionally, monitoring cloud infrastructure costs reduce spending on under-utilized resources. 

IDC conducted a study in 2020. organizations that track and optimize their cloud infrastructure enjoy many benefits, these include  

• Increased system performance  
• Reduced costs 
• Improved security.  

These organizations enjoy a 20% system performance increase and a 30% cost reduction. But, note that the level of cloud adoption in Africa is still low, and the cloud market is new.  

Furthermore, Africa lacks the infrastructure and skilled IT professionals for the cloud environment. As a result, monitoring and optimizing cloud infrastructure is a challenge. 

6. Avoiding Pitfalls: Common Mistakes to Avoid in Cloud Migration for Banks 

Here are a few of the most common mistakes to avoid when migrating to the cloud in Africa. All the following mistakes are in this blog. 

1. Lack of a clear migration plan 

2. Not considering regulatory compliance 

3. Failing to test systems:  

4. Lack of training for employees 

5. Not monitoring and optimizing the cloud infrastructure 

IDC conducted a study on these mistakes. They result in 50% longer migration times and 25% higher costs. Furthermore, these mistakes cause system downtimes, data loss, and security breaches. 

7. Data Migration in Cloud Migration for Banks: Why it’s Important and How to Do it Right 

Moving data from on-premise systems to the cloud is complex and time-consuming. But is a must for the success of the migration. Data migration helps to improve data security, compliance, and all operations. 

Accenture conducted a study on data migration. It is among the challenging aspects of cloud migration. For over 60% of banks, data migration is the most difficult step. This is because of the complexities of preparing, transferring, and validating data. Additionally, dealing with data quality issues and ensuring data consistency. 

To ensure a successful data migration, test the migration to ensure it is seamless. This way data is not lost or compromised. 

Another important aspect of data migration is data security. This includes implementing encryption, multi-factor authentication, and other measures for sensitive financial data. 

Follow the above practices, for successful data migrations. It also prevents data loss or compromise. 
 

8. Steady and Sure: The Importance of a Well-Planned Cloud Migration for Banks 

Cloud computing improves operations and customer experience. 

One of the other benefits of migrating to the cloud is higher scalability. With cloud computing, banks can add or remove resources as needed. They don’t need to invest in new hardware.  

In Africa, there is rapid population growth and economic development. Also, the digital native market had led to increased demand for financial services. 

The second benefit of migrating to the cloud is security. Banks in Africa face many unique security challenges. These include a lack of physical security infrastructure and trained personnel. Moving to the cloud can take advantage of the latest security technologies. For example, multi-factor authentication and encryption, protect their customer’s sensitive information. 

Yet, migrating to the cloud is not without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges is minimizing the disruption of banks’ operations. Also, infrastructure and personnel are in place to support the move. 

To cut the risk of disruption, adopt a phased approach to their cloud migration. This involves moving workloads to the cloud in stages, rather than all at once. Through this approach, you test the waters and address issues before a commitment. 

Declouding: Moving Away from the Cloud 

Declouding refers to moving away from cloud computing and returning to on-premises infrastructure. It is becoming a popular trend among African businesses.  

Although cloud computing has benefits there are reasons why businesses choose to decloud. 

One of the main reasons for declouding in Africa is the cost. While cloud computing can be cost-effective in the short term, over time, the costs can add up.  

The costs of cloud computing, such as data storage, bandwidth, and maintenance, are high. Additionally, as businesses grow, they need more resources, leading to increased costs. 

Another reason for declouding in Africa is data sovereignty. In cloud computing, third-party providers store and manage businesses’ data. This can be a concern for regulated industries, as they have strict data protection laws. By declouding, these businesses regain control over their data. They also follow local regulations. 

A third reason for declouding in Africa is security. While cloud computing can offer improved security, it also comes with its own set of risks. Businesses worry about the security of their data housed in a third-party data center. Especially in countries where cybercrime is prevalent. By declouding, businesses take a more proactive approach to security. They store and protect their data to meet their specific needs. 

Finally, many businesses decloud because they want to take advantage of new technologies. As technology continues to evolve, businesses’ initial technology can’t support their needs. By declouding, businesses take advantage of new technologies. For instance, edge computing provides more efficient and cost-effective solutions than cloud computing. 

This podcast discusses reasons why 37signals decided to move away from cloud services and host their software on their own servers. 

1. Cloud services have been around for over a decade and many companies are starting to question their use. 

2. Companies with a predictable base load and a long-time horizon may benefit from hosting their own software. 

3. Purchasing hardware is now more affordable than ever. 

Counter arguments: 

1. Cloud services offer simplification benefits that may be worth the cost. 

2. Companies with unpredictable loads may not benefit from hosting their own software. 

Work with us 

Looking for a reliable partner for your cloud migration journey? 

Finsense is here to help with comprehensive roadmaps, support, and expert guidance every step of the way. Contact us today and let our years of experience ensure a smooth transition for your business. 

Sources  

1. Capital One data breach: https://www.cnn.com/2019/07/29/tech/capital-one-data-breach/index.html 

2. T-Mobile data breach: https://www.csoonline.com/article/3480286/t-mobile-data-breach-was-caused-by-a-misconfigured-firewall-during-an-aws-migration.htmlTop of Form 

3. African Continental Free Trade Agreement 

4. Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) guideline 

5. 37signals decided to move away from cloud services 

6. The International Data Corporation conducted a study on cloud migration testing and training 

7. 2020 Report by Synergy Group on Cloud Service Providers 

In this article, we will explore the current state of the African tech talent landscape. Is scarce or limited? 

It’ll also look at the potential for growth and development within the industry. In addition, the opportunities for tech professionals looking to make a difference in Africa.  

The Growth of The Tech Industry in Africa 

The tech industry in Africa has grown in recent years. The industry has many successful startups and a growing pool of investment.  

According to data from the World Bank, the number of tech startups in Africa was 16,000 in 2018 from 2,500 in 2010. 

Many factors encouraged this overnight growth. They are as follows: 

1. The increasing availability of internet access. 

2. The growth of mobile technologies. 

3. The rising demand for digital solutions in various sectors. 

Investment in the tech industry in Africa has also seen significant growth. According to data from the African Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (AVCA).  

The total venture capital investment in African tech companies was between $3.8- $4.7 Billion in 2022. This increase is from $2 billion in 2019 and around $500 million in 2015.  
 

Investors recognize the potential of the African tech market and its opportunities. Projections for 2023 fintech funding is up to $6.8 billion. 
 

The tech industry in Africa is a dynamic and growing sector. It has made a significant impact on the continent’s economic and social development. 

Successful Tech Professionals in Africa: Backgrounds and Achievements. 

There are many successful tech professionals in Africa. These pioneers have achieved a lot in their careers. Also, are making a positive impact on the tech industry in the continent. Here are the profiles of a few of these individuals: 

1. Juliana Rotich: 

 Rotich is a Kenyan tech entrepreneur and innovator. Known for her work in the field of open data and technology for development. She is the co-founder and Executive Director of Ushahidi. Ushahidi is a leading platform for crisis mapping and information-gathering. 

Many disaster and conflict situations around the world use Ushahidi. Rotich is also a co-founder of BRCK. A company that produces rugged and portable internet devices. For areas with unreliable or non-existent internet infrastructure. 

2. Yassir Yacoubi:  

Yacoubi is a Moroccan tech entrepreneur and investor. Known for his work in the field of digital finance. He is the co-founder and CEO of Inwi. A leading telecom operator in Morocco. 

Also, he is the founder and CEO of Mena Venture Investments. A venture capital firm that focuses on investments in emerging markets.  

Yacoubi has received many awards and recognitions. For his contributions to the tech industry in Africa and beyond. 

3. Ashish J. Thakkar:  

Thakkar is a Ugandan tech entrepreneur and philanthropist. Known for his work in the field of financial inclusion and entrepreneurship.  

He is the founder and CEO of Mara Group. A conglomerate of companies that operate in financial services, technology, and real estate.  

Thakkar is also the co-founder of the Mara Foundation. A charitable organization that works to promote entrepreneurship and education in Africa. 

4. Herman Chinery-Hesse:  

Chinery-Hesse is a Ghanaian tech entrepreneur and innovator. Known for his work in the field of software development and artificial intelligence.  

He is the founder and CEO of Softech. A software company that has developed a range of innovative products and services. Such as an AI-powered chatbot and a cloud-based banking platform.  

Herman is also the founder of a Global Entrepreneurship Forum for the tech industry. A network of entrepreneurs and investors to rally for collaboration and innovation 

5. Stephen Ozoigbo,  

A Nigerian entrepreneur and venture capitalist who founded the African Business Angel Network, an organization that works to promote the development of early-stage technology companies in Africa. 

He is an expert in AI and has made contributions to the tech industry in Africa. As such, he has received many awards and recognitions for his work. 

Tech education and training programs in different countries on the continent. 

Access to tech education and training programs in Africa depends on socio-economic factors. These factors include: 

1. Economic development. 

2. Government, and stakeholder priorities.  

3. Tech skills demand in the local market.  

Tech education and training programs in different countries in Africa also vary. In general, countries with well-developed education and technology focus systems have more programs. 

Middle-income countries like South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco have more tech education programs. These programs are in primary and secondary schools, vocational training institutes, and universities.  

The focus topics are computer science, software engineering, and data analysis. Students get the skills and knowledge they need to pursue careers in the tech industry. 
 

In comparison, low-income countries like Burundi, and Chad have under-developed educational systems. Hence fewer tech education and training programs are available.  

In these cases, individuals seek out alternative ways through online courses or self-study. Even then, internet unavailability is another bottleneck in these countries. 

Companies That Have Successfully Sourced and Retained Tech Talent in Africa. 

1. Andela:  

Andela is a tech company for businesses in the US and Europe. It helps them hire and manage remote software developers from Africa.  

The company has a rigorous selection process. It identifies top talent, trains them, and supports them to succeed in their careers.  

Andela have been successful in retaining tech talent. They provide competitive salaries, benefits, and professional development opportunities to its employees. 

2. Flutterwave:  

Flutterwave is a fintech in Africa. It provides payment infrastructure and financial services to businesses and individuals.  

The company has a diverse team of tech professionals from across the continent. They build innovative solutions to various challenges in the financial industry.  

Flutterwave has retained tech talent by providing them supportive and collaborative work environment. They also offer competitive compensation and benefits packages. 

3. M-Kopa:  

M-Kopa is a tech company. They provide pay-as-you-go solar energy systems to households in Africa. 

The company has a team of tech professionals who develop and maintain solar systems. M-Kopa retains tech talent by providing a purpose-driven mission. Also, a culture of innovation and collaboration. 

4. Jumia:  

Jumia is an e-commerce company that operates in several African countries. The company has tech professionals who build and maintain its platform and infrastructure. 

Jumia retains tech talent by providing a dynamic and fast-paced work environment. They also offer opportunities for career advancement and personal development. 

5. uLesson:  

uLesson is an ed-tech company in Africa. They provide online learning programs to students. 

The company has tech professionals who develop and maintain the platform and content.  

uLesson retains tech talent by providing a supportive and collaborative work environment. They also offer competitive compensation and benefits packages.  

Salary and benefits packages for tech professionals in Africa  

Technology professionals’ salaries in Africa are not comparable to those of other regions. Many factors influence these packages, and they include: 

• The country or region. 
• Their level of education and experience. 
• Their specific skills and expertise. 
• The demand for their skills in the local job market. 

The average salary for a tech professional in Africa is around 30-40% lower than in developed countries. This data is from recent research by IT industry research firms and reports.  

Tech pros in Africa can earn well with global firms. However, pay and benefits vary by employer and location. Keep this in mind when considering opportunities in Africa. 

Insights from industry leaders and experts  

Industry leaders and experts agree that the tech sector in Africa is growing. It also has significant potential for the future. Some of the key insights that these leaders and experts shared include: 

1. Africa is a key market for tech companies:   

Africa has many opportunities for tech companies. It has a large population, a rising middle class, and high mobile and internet usage. It means companies can make products and services that fit what people want.  

2. Tech   can drive economic and social development:  

Tech has the power to change Africa’s future! Industry leaders and experts know that it can drive economic and social development. Think about it, with tech, people can access information, education, and other resources. It empowers individuals and communities. In the end, it opens doors to new opportunities for growth and progress. 

3. The tech ecosystem in Africa is evolving:  

The African tech market is growing. More people and companies are recognizing its potential. Industry leaders and experts also acknowledge this fact. There are more startups, investors, and stakeholders joining the sector. 

 The tech sector in Africa is dynamic and exciting with potential for growth and impact. Africa is a key player in the global tech industry and drives innovation and development. As a result, the African tech industry will continue making an impact in the global tech industry. 

The diversity of the tech workforce in Africa 

Limited data exist on diversity in Africa’s tech workforce. The industry faces challenges like a lack of diversity and inclusion. Underrepresentation of women and minority groups is also common. 

Studies show that minority groups face barriers to education and employment opportunities. According to ILO, women make up only a third of the tech workforce in Africa, lower than the global average of 40%. Data on racial diversity is also limited. 

Furthermore, the industry acknowledges that certain racial and ethnic groups dominate. Although, limited data is available on the racial diversity of the tech workforce. Promoting diversity and inclusion is key for a sector that serves all backgrounds. 

Data on the demand for tech talent in different sectors and industries in Africa. 

The demand for tech talent in different sectors and industries in Africa can vary. Some sectors and industries in Africa have a high demand for tech talent. They include: 

1. Fintech: The fintech industry in Africa is growing. They demand for tech talent in mobile payments, digital banking, and financial inclusion. 

2. E-commerce: The e-commerce industry in Africa is growing. It demands tech talent to build and maintain online platforms and infrastructure. 

3. Healthcare: The healthcare sector in Africa is facing challenges. It demands tech talent to develop innovative solutions. 

4. Education: The education sector in Africa is facing challenges. It demands tech talent to develop online learning platforms and other solutions. 

As companies recognize the importance of technology for innovation and progress. The demand for tech talent in different sectors in Africa will be insatiable.   

The challenges and opportunities faced by tech professionals in Africa 

Tech professionals’ careers face a range of challenges and opportunities in Africa. Some of the key challenges include: 

1. Limited access to education and training: Prevent opportunities to develop skills and knowledge to succeed in tech careers. The access limits are because of the cost, availability, and quality of instruction. 

2. Limited access to resources and support: This prevents access to the resources and support to succeed in tech careers. These resources are equipment, software, other tools, mentors, advisors, and other support networks. 

3. Limited job opportunities: It is hard f to find jobs in countries with lower GDPs and demand for tech skills. This makes it hard for tech professionals to find jobs that match their skills and interests.  

Despite these challenges, there are also many opportunities for tech professionals in Africa. 

1. Growing demand for tech skills: More companies and organizations are adopting technology to drive innovation and progress. As a result, tech professionals can find employment and advance their careers. 

2. Opportunity to make a positive impact: Tech skills and expertise can help Africa solve its challenges. This is rewarding for tech professionals who want to make a difference. Working in Africa also allows them to learn and grow in their careers, while making a positive impact. 

3. Opportunities to learn and grow: Tech professionals in Africa can learn and grow. They do so by gaining experience, building networks and taking on new challenges. This will help them to develop their skills.  

Work with us 

Looking for top-notch tech talent for your ongoing technology projects?  

Partner with us and Gebeya to access a team of experts including software engineers, data scientists and more. Contact Finsense today and stay ahead of the curve. 

Sources 

“The State of the African Tech Startup Ecosystem” by Partech: https://partech.com/the-state-of-the-african-tech-startup-ecosystem/ 

“The Future of Tech Talent in Africa” by World Economic Forum: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/05/future-tech-talent-africa-digital-skills-jobs-education/ 

“Investing in Africa’s Tech Talent” by McKinsey & Company: https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/high-tech/our-insights/investing-in-africas-tech-talent 

“AI in Africa: the future of technology on the continent” by The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/jan/05/ai-in-africa-the-future-of-technology-on-the-continent 

“The State of the African Tech Ecosystem” by Disrupt Africa: https://disrupt-africa.com/2019/02/the-state-of-the-african-tech-ecosystem-2019/ 

Core banking systems are the backbone of modern financial institutions, and as technology evolves, so do the solutions available. In this article, we will compare traditional and microservices-based core banking platforms, highlighting their features, benefits, and drawbacks. We will also provide guidance on which solution may be the best fit for your organization. 

Legacy Core Banking Systems Functionalities 

• Architecture – Legacy core banking systems are designed with a centralized architecture, featuring a single database and instance of the software. Traditional Core Banking Systems (CBS) typically have a monolithic architecture built from COBOL-based legacy components. 

• The Infrastructure- The majority of CBS have a strong, on-premise infrastructure that is expensive to maintain and extremely challenging to change over time.  
• Data and Information Processing- Data is stored in silos in Core Banking Systems. Because of this, it is more challenging to use fully integrated business logic to establish connections between clients and goods.  
• Processing- Traditional CBS use batch processing 
• Integrations – Legacy core banking systems are not easily integrated with new technologies. Integrating components are complicated and difficult to customize 
• Configurability– Legacy core banking systems have a centralized architecture, which makes it difficult to add new functionality and users. All code modifications and new releases need to be approved before a CBS can introduce a new feature. 

• The Client Base- Customer databases are primarily used in Core Banking Systems to address the complex needs of financial institutions. 
• The Revenue Model – Variable and one-time deployment costs are incurred by CBS (with additional expense for system maintenance, changes, and upgrades). 

Microservices-Based Core Banking Platforms Functionalities 

• The Architecture –A containerized microservices architecture, mostly open-source programming languages, contemporary coding standards, integration, and continuous deployment (CI/CD) are all used in the development of Core Banking Platforms (CBP). 
• The Infrastructure – With CBP, you can have automatic updates and fully cloud-native functionality for both horizontal and vertical applications. 

• Data and Information Processing – The data sources are seamlessly integrated into each repository for Core Banking Platforms. The definition of object layers enables the association of additional individual properties with a fundamental account. 
• Processing – CBP carry out processing and transactions in real-time.  
• Integrations -. Core Banking Platforms enable a modular EDA deployment with an extended API layer and predefined connectivity.  
• Configurability – With a CBP, deployments and integrations are seamless (CI/CD), and the low-code configuration lowers development and maintenance costs while facilitating simple changes. 
• The Client Base – Core Banking Platforms help greenfield Neo-banks and fintech companies by meeting their needs for greater simplicity. 

• The Revenue Model – With CBP, financial institutions use a pay-as-you-go model and only pay for what they use. 

Overview of Legacy Core Banking Systems 

Legacy core banking systems are known for their reliability and scalability, but they were designed in an era when hardware was expensive and software was less advanced. As a result, they tend to be hardware-intensive and inflexible compared to modern software solutions.  

Their centralized architecture means that all users must work off the same database and core software, making them inefficient and vulnerable to data breaches. These systems are also difficult to upgrade and integrate with modern technologies like AI, machine learning, and blockchain. While legacy systems have proven their worth over time, their drawbacks make them unsustainable for the future. 

Overview of Core Banking Platforms  

The modularity of the Core Banking Platform, which separates transaction management from banking services like new account creation, loan management, deposit and withdrawal processing, and other related management activities, is its key component. 

Localized changes can be tested and implemented quickly and easily thanks to the modular architecture. By combining their logic and data into a single point that can be connected to any other endpoint, associated services can be added using APIs. Greater configurability is the outcome. 

The Four Generations of Core Banking System Digitization 

Transitioning to next-generation platforms in banking is a process.  Although not all organizations go through all the levels of transition, the oldest institutions have had no choice but to go through all of the four generations. Depending on where your organization lies, it will determine the next step of digitization. 

Image Source: Skaleet  

The First-Generation  

Organizations with a monolithic legacy system add a middleware layer between the core and the ESB in an effort to reduce latency. However, at this level of digitization, the organization still endures: 

• Limited digital interface and limited features. 

• Heavy-code proprietary digital calls to the ESB. 
• Long ledger latency updates for many digital calls 
• Excessive embedded legacy cost. 

The Second-Generation 

At this level of digital transformation, financial institutions adopt a service-oriented architecture. They move from a monolithic core to a service-oriented core. The benefits include: 

• They can also add digital functions easily compared to the first generation; less limited and less costly.  
• They can develop and deploy service-oriented “fat applications”. 

This is not enough because new challenges arise: 

• Enhancements do not scale, although abstracted development improves efficiency. 
• “Fat Application calls” replace the many ESB calls. 

• High embedded legacy costs. 

The Third-Generation 

The above challenges push most organizations into the third phase of core digitization. This is a transition from a service-oriented to a microservices API-enabled architecture. The benefits of this move include: 

• Easier integration. 
• Increased real-time transactions. 

• Moderate embedded legacy costs. 
• More scalable application development. 

The Fourth-Generation 

This is the next-generation core banking solution. It becomes a platform rather than a system. It is often fully cloud-native and highly configurable. The benefits are endless and include: 

• Very lean development layers that are configurable. 

• Easy addition of digital features. 
• Templated APIs defined as Data 
• Each microservice is reusable, traceable, and accessed via APIs. 
• Zero embedded legacy costs. 

Which Core Banking Solution Is Right for Your Organization? 

Choosing the right core banking solution for your organization is critical for enhancing customer experience, increasing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and improving risk management. To ensure that you select the best solution for your organization’s needs, it is important to clearly define your goals and objectives. The right core banking solution will support and enable your organization to achieve its goals and objectives. 

When choosing a core banking solution, it is important to consider its flexibility, scalability, and cost of implementation and operation. A solution that is easily customizable and integrates well with third-party applications is ideal. It is also important to consider the solution’s capacity for scale and its long-term operating costs. 

Conclusion 

In summary, the legacy system has been a key part of the banking industry for decades. However, with the advancement of technology and the need for customer experience improvement and cost reduction, banks are migrating to the core banking platform. 

The legacy system was not able to provide a seamless customer experience due to its limitations in terms of scalability, security and integration with other systems. The core banking platform is geared towards providing a better customer experience with increased efficiency and lower costs of operations. Start banking smarter with a better core banking solution! 

Introduction 

When it comes to discussing Open Banking, Open APIs in Banking, BIAN APIs, and Banking as a Service, it’s important to understand that these are all different concepts that relate to the same singular idea of giving third parties access to a bank’s data and/or functionality so they can create new or different experiences and products for customers.  

Although people often use these terms interchangeably, it’s important to understand the distinctions between them so you can better understand the role each one plays in the world of banking. 

In this article, we will explore the differences and similarities between various concepts with David Roldan, an API expert from Sharper. We will also give an overview of what is happening in Africa. 
 

Open Banking 

Open Banking is a network of financial institutions that share data using APIs. By opening these APIs to sharing, 3rd parties have easier access to financial information, which allows them to build new and different apps and services. 

Financial institutions have been hesitant to participate in open banking because it would mean competing with one another; however, regulators have been urging them to do so. This is true for the Open Banking Standard in the United Kingdom and the PSD2 in Europe. In other regions, though, open banking is being driven by market dynamics. 

Developers can use Open Banking APIs to access a limited set of features such as account aggregation and payment initiation. We recommend looking at the regional standards to see what standards are available in your area. 
 

Open APIs in banking 

APIs allow information to be shared between different systems, whereas open APIs refer to a publicly available interface that allows data or functionality to be shared. Open APIs in open banking allow third parties to access a financial institution’s customer data (with the customer’s permission) or the financial institution’s service offerings and functionality. This is significant because it allows customers to have more control over their data and allows third parties to provide value-added services to customers. 

BIAN APIs 

The Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN) is a model of business capabilities, scenarios, service domains, and business objects used in banking and other financial services. This enables cost reduction and management change by developing digital standards and best practices in service-oriented architecture and banking APIs. 

The BIAN APIs are a set of banking-related APIs that support the partitions and service operations of the BIAN Service Domain. They are built in a RESTful architecture style, making it simple for organizations to incorporate them into their API management strategy. This speeds up time-to-market and improves banking best practices for financial organizations that adopt them. 

The BIAN APIs are a set of service operations that are designed to make it easier for global banks to adopt modern banking interoperability standards. These APIs are not required, but they can be used to simplify digital transformation. In addition, Open Banking APIs and Open APIs for Banking can be built on top of the BIAN APIs. 
 
 

Banking as a Service (BaaS) 

Banking as a Service (BaaS) may sound similar to open banking at first, but there is a crucial difference between the two. While open banking provides third-party access to the data of existing bank customers, BaaS provides access to bank functionality so that non-bank companies can connect users outside of the bank’s existing customer base to banking services. In other words, open banking gives third parties access to data that’s already there, while BaaS allows for the creation of new data sets and connections. 

Banking as a Service provides a company with the ability to construct its own customer experience, under its brand name, with the support of a bank’s existing infrastructure and specialist knowledge. This allows providers to create a unique and differentiated offering for their customers. 
 
Banking Transformation: An African Perspective 

Like in other industries, banking in Africa has evolved to take advantage of new technologies. For example, with the advent of mobile phones, 96% of Kenyans now use MPESA, a fintech for mobile money transfers and payments. 10% of all people using mobile banking in the world are Kenyans. 

PSD2 was supposed to come into effect five years ago, but due to negotiations, it only just came into effect in 2019. Many developed countries have “old” banking systems that make any modern progress look like a mistake. However, Africa’s banking infrastructure is not yet fully developed, so modern technology has not caused as much destruction on the continent. Some experts refer to Africa as a “greenfield” for open banking. 
 
 

Challenge 

Open Banking and BAAS both face challenges and opportunities in Africa, a key market for these technologies. Open banking has the potential to shape and improve financial systems around the world. Africa, in particular, faces obstacles and challenges that make it difficult to use traditional banking methods. For example, 50% of Africans do not have a bank account. 

There are still very few working banking APIs in Africa. Many countries in Africa lack traditional banking infrastructure or banking licenses operated by technology companies. In addition, regulators have been slow to provide policies and frameworks for open banking. For example, the central Nigerian, Rwandan, and Kenyan banks recently launched open banking frameworks. 

This scarcity of working APIs presents a challenge for FinTech companies operating in Africa, which must rely on other means for customer acquisition and data distribution. For African startups working on innovative solutions to improve financial inclusion, this lack of access to banking infrastructure can be a roadblock to success. 
 
 

Outliers 

Banking APIs have the potential to improve access to financial services for Africans living on the continent, but they are primarily only available in a few countries like Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. This is promising, but companies are still struggling to make these APIs work properly. 

API fintech companies like Mono and Okra from Nigeria are leading the way when it comes to the potential future of API banking. With the continent’s economy growing, more and more tech-savvy Africans can spend money on apps and online services. This presents a huge opportunity for both banks and non-banks to enter this market and become interoperable financial service providers. 
 
 
 

Solution 

“Africa has great potential” is no longer a slogan, but rather a harsh reality for many fintech companies. Financial exclusion has been a major setback, as millions of people in Africa remain unbanked. This lack of access to customer data makes it difficult for fintech companies to compete with those in developed countries. Fintech companies should also keep security and customer data a priority to avoid the challenges faced by the first European PSD. 

Second, APIs can help banks overcome infrastructure challenges. In general, the term “API” refers to an open API that can be integrated with third parties. However, they can also help build robust business architectures that are flexible and modular. This way, they can offer more value to customers who use them. 

Fintech has the potential to revolutionize banking in Africa by making financial services more accessible and affordable. However, there is still work to be done before open banking APIs are up and running smoothly on the continent. 
 
 

Conclusions 

The advent of the API economy has largely changed the way banks and financial technology companies operate within the financial services industry. APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) provide a digital link between the IT systems of an enterprise and play a crucial role in a bank’s digitization process. By connecting a bank’s IT ecosystem with various internal and external systems and digital channels, APIs help banks exploit significant competitive advantages. 

Africa is gradually catching up to other continents in terms of open banking development. Although we haven’t seen a comprehensive open banking framework emerge just yet, individual countries are taking strides toward digital transformation. A few African nations have even become leaders in open banking regulatory frameworks. 

Sources: 

What Is Open Banking? – Forbes Advisor 

Open Banking & Banking APIs Explained W/ Examples (insiderintelligence.com) 

Banks are open to open banking: Better ways to work with FinTech (bai.org)