MSTRpay has appointed Ms. Séraphine Barigenera as Lead of Ecosystem Development for Burundi, representing the company as it advances its partnership with economist Dr. Alois Misago of Sumaco Microfinance. With a Letter of Intent signed and a binding agreement expected within two months, Burundi is set to become an important launchpad for MSTRpay’s East African expansion.

A career built on entrepreneurship

Born in Gitega in 1973, Séraphine Barigenera has established herself as a skilled entrepreneur and respected community leader. After excelling in languages during her secondary studies, she took part in an exchange programme in the Philippines, gaining international experience at an early stage. Returning home, she worked as a nutrition researcher for a French aid organisation, focusing on improving child health in rural Burundi. Following this, she identified opportunities in local trade and began supplying dried ndagala fish from Lake Tanganyika to Kayanza, a mountain town where fish was scarce. Her business quickly grew, demonstrating her strengths as a negotiator and her ability to build trust through transparent and mutually beneficial deals.

Expanding into development projects

Her entrepreneurial skills also led her into wider initiatives that combined business with social impact. She became involved in sustainable development programmes ranging from housing and electrification to reforestation. Notably, she took part in Blockhomes Burundi, Power One’s electrification project in Kabonga, and environmental work with One Heart Burundi. These experiences have positioned her as a bridge between local communities, business networks, and international initiatives, building a reputation for integrity and practical problem-solving.

Driving MSTRpay’s vision in Burundi

As MSTRpay’s Lead of Ecosystem Development for Burundi, Séraphine now plays a key role in preparing the ground for the company’s digital financial services. She represents MSTRpay locally, building connections with institutions and stakeholders, and supporting the progress of the joint venture led by Dr. Alois Misago, General Manager of Sumaco Farmers Cooperative and Sumaco Microfinance. With the agreement expected to become binding in the near term, MSTRpay is preparing to roll out neobank services, digital wallets, and micro-loans across Burundi. Séraphine’s leadership in ecosystem development will be central to ensuring that these services reach the communities that need them most.

Newshub Finance Global