About Abebaw Belay

I am a Senior Systems Architect and Digital Financial Services IT Manager with deep expertise in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), digital financial services, and FinTech architecture. My background spans systems design, payment infrastructure, and the application of AI to solve complex financial technology challenges.

Throughout my career at leading organizations including EthSwitch, Kifiya Financial Technology PLC, and EthioPost, I have designed and implemented scalable, secure payment systems that serve millions of users. I specialize in integrating complex financial systems, ensuring compliance with strict regulatory requirements, and building inclusive payment solutions.

My expertise covers systems architecture design, information systems analysis, AI/ML applications in finance, risk mitigation, and security protocols. I am passionate about leveraging technology to drive financial inclusion across East Africa and promoting gender-sensitive, inclusive environments in the workplace.

Professional Journey

2024 - Present

DFS IT Manager

EthioPost

Leading digital financial services initiatives at EthioPost, managing IT infrastructure for payment systems and driving digital financial inclusion across the organization.

2022 - 2024

Senior System Architect

EthSwitch S.C.

Architected digital payment solutions and interoperable systems connecting financial institutions. Designed frameworks for secure, scalable payment infrastructure supporting the broader financial ecosystem.

2021 - 2022

Senior System Admin

EthSwitch

Managed critical system infrastructure for national payment systems, ensuring 99.9% uptime and security compliance for millions of transactions daily.

2019 - 2021

System Engineer

Kifiya Financial Technology PLC

Designed and implemented FinTech solutions with focus on API development, system integration, and digital payment platforms serving diverse financial institutions.

2018 - 2019

M.Sc. in Computer Engineering

Addis Ababa Institute of Technology (AAiT)

Advanced degree specializing in systems architecture, network design, and digital infrastructure. Capstone project on instant and inclusive payment systems.

2014 - 2018

B.Sc. in Computer Engineering

Addis Ababa Institute of Technology (AAiT)

Foundation in computer systems, network architecture, and software engineering principles with distinction.

2012 - 2016

B.Sc. in Information Technology

Unity University

Comprehensive IT education covering systems analysis, database management, and information systems architecture.