Designing Resilient Anti-Fraud Architectures for Digital Financial Services in Sub-Saharan Africa

The rapid expansion of digital financial services in Sub-Saharan Africa has created new opportunities for financial inclusion, but it has also exposed institutions to increasingly sophisticated fraud and money laundering risks. This review explores the design of resilient anti-fraud architectures tailored to the unique challenges of the region’s financial ecosystem. By examining technical frameworks such as machine learning–driven anomaly detection, behavioral biometrics, and real- time transaction monitoring, alongside strategic considerations including regulatory harmonization, data governance, and cross-border cooperation, the paper highlights best practices for mitigating fraud. The review also analyzes the role of mobile money platforms, fintech innovations, and regional infrastructure gaps that shape both vulnerabilities and potential solutions. Emphasis is placed on adaptive system design that balances efficiency with compliance, ensuring scalability and sustainability within resource-constrained environments. Ultimately, the study provides a comprehensive perspective on building robust anti-fraud and AML systems that enhance trust, protect consumers, and strengthen financial resilience in Sub-Saharan Africa’s digital economy.