Desta Bayisa

Digital Health Payments Lead

Desta Bayisa is a seasoned digital transformation leader specializing in fintech, digital financial services, and Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) renewable energy innovations. As the Digital Health Payments Lead at the United Nations-hosted Better Than Cash Alliance, Desta brings over a decade of expertise in building inclusive, impactful digital ecosystems across East Africa, Central Africa, and the Middle East. Desta has a proven track record of delivering transformative digital financial service solutions. He played a pivotal role in launching Ethiopia’s first and largest mobile money platform, where he led the design and implementation of cutting-edge digital payment systems. Through strategic collaboration with regulators, financial institutions, telecom operators, and international partners, his efforts have enabled scalable, sustainable financial services that empower underserved communities. In 2017, based in Nairobi, Desta expanded his regional impact by spearheading the adoption of PAYG solar energy solutions in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. As Country Manager in Zambia, he successfully launched innovative digital energy solutions and restructured operations to focus on the needs of the underserved community. Since 2022, Desta has served as an international consultant, leading impactful projects in digital transformation, financial inclusion, and digital payment ecosystems. His collaborations include work with global fintech companies, financial service providers, Apex consulting, UNOPS, and The World Bank. Desta’s extensive expertise is complemented by advanced training in digital finance, fintech, renewable energy, and transformational leadership. His work is anchored in advancing digital services that promote financial inclusion and drive sustainable development across Africa.