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An exploratory study of financial inclusion in sub-saharan Africa

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  • damane, moeti
  • Ho, Sin-Yu

Abstract

This study explores the development of financial inclusion in 37 Sub-Saharan Africa countries during 2005-2019. We first offer a conceptual definition and measurement of financial inclusion. We then discuss international initiatives and country-specific strategies to promote financial inclusion. We also document cross country trends in financial inclusion in the region and highlight general challenges before identifying possible solutions. We find that the extent of financial inclusion in the region varies across low-income, lower-middle-income, and upper-middle-income economies, with lower-middle-income countries having higher access to and use of financial services. Furthermore, although financial inclusion in the region has improved over time, partly due to legislative initiatives, challenges remain, including lack of coordination, gaps between financial deepening and inclusion, low financial literacy, and gender discrimination. We recommend the need for stakeholder-focused national financial inclusion strategies and policy reforms based on peer learning and transformation.

Suggested Citation

  • damane, moeti & Ho, Sin-Yu, 2023. "An exploratory study of financial inclusion in sub-saharan Africa," MPRA Paper 120239, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:pra:mprapa:120239
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    3. Ratna Sahay & Martin Cihak & Papa M N'Diaye & Adolfo Barajas & Srobona Mitra & Annette J Kyobe & Yen N Mooi & Seyed Reza Yousefi, 2015. "Financial Inclusion; Can it Meet Multiple Macroeconomic Goals?," IMF Staff Discussion Notes 15/17, International Monetary Fund.
    4. Marian Catalin VOICA, 2017. "Financial inclusion as a tool for sustainable development," Romanian Journal of Economics, Institute of National Economy, vol. 44(1(53)), pages 121-129, June.
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    6. Asli Demirguc-Kunt & Leora Klapper, 2013. "Measuring Financial Inclusion: Explaining Variation in Use of Financial Services across and within Countries," Brookings Papers on Economic Activity, Economic Studies Program, The Brookings Institution, vol. 46(1 (Spring), pages 279-340.
    7. Ms. Ratna Sahay & Mr. Martin Cihak & Mr. Papa M N'Diaye & Mr. Adolfo Barajas & Ms. Srobona Mitra & Ms. Annette J Kyobe & Yen N Mooi & Mr. Seyed Reza Yousefi, 2015. "Financial Inclusion: Can it Meet Multiple Macroeconomic Goals?," IMF Staff Discussion Notes 2015/017, International Monetary Fund.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Sub-Saharan Africa; Financial inclusion; National financial inclusion strategies; Alliance for financial inclusion; Financial access survey.;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G0 - Financial Economics - - General
    • G21 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Banks; Other Depository Institutions; Micro Finance Institutions; Mortgages
    • G28 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Government Policy and Regulation

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