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Competition and Regulation of Mobile Money Platforms in Africa: A Comparative Analysis of Kenya and Uganda

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  • Anthea Paelo

    (University of Johannesburg
    Financial Sector Deepening Uganda)

  • Simon Roberts

    (University of Johannesburg
    University College London)

Abstract

We analyze the competition issues in mobile money in Kenya–where Safaricom is the market leader–and in Uganda: where the market is duopolistic. We evaluate the multi-sided platform characteristics that have underpinned the rapid growth of the lead mobile money platforms and that also imply that the market leaders have substantial market power and can act as gatekeepers. The conduct of the lead firms is assessed along with competition measures and regulatory interventions made in each country. The analysis highlights the importance of–and challenges for–competition enforcement in developing countries to ensure effective rivalry while realizing the gains from innovation in digital platforms.

Suggested Citation

  • Anthea Paelo & Simon Roberts, 2022. "Competition and Regulation of Mobile Money Platforms in Africa: A Comparative Analysis of Kenya and Uganda," Review of Industrial Organization, Springer;The Industrial Organization Society, vol. 60(3), pages 463-489, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:revind:v:60:y:2022:i:3:d:10.1007_s11151-022-09858-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s11151-022-09858-x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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