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Preliminary Insights on Digital Financial Literacy Gaps Among Rwandan Youth and Considerations for AI-Powered Interventions

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  • Pierre Ntakirutimana

    (Carnegie Mellon University Africa, College of Engineering, Kigali Campus, Kigali BP 6150, Rwanda)

  • Yves Mfitumukiza Ndayisaba

    (Carnegie Mellon University Africa, College of Engineering, Kigali Campus, Kigali BP 6150, Rwanda)

  • Ganesh Mani

    (Tepper School of Business, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA)

  • Chimwemwe Chipeta

    (School of Economics and Finance, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa)

  • Patrick Mcsharry

    (Carnegie Mellon University Africa, College of Engineering, Kigali Campus, Kigali BP 6150, Rwanda)

  • Karen Sowon

    (O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA)

  • Edith Talina Luhanga

    (Carnegie Mellon University Africa, College of Engineering, Kigali Campus, Kigali BP 6150, Rwanda)

Abstract

Africa has the world’s youngest population, and many young adults rely on informal or temporary employment, making digital financial literacy (DFL) critical for long-term financial resilience and sustainable economic development. In this paper, we present findings from a two-phase mixed-methods study. In Phase 1, we surveyed 300 Rwandans aged 18–32 on financial knowledge, digital skills, and financial behaviors to explore key gaps in DFL. Results show modest financial knowledge and moderate digital literacy, with common budgeting and saving practices but key cybersecurity awareness-practice gaps. Gender and education disparities are also evident. To address the low loan literacy observed in Phase 1 findings, we conceived an AI-enabled mobile money loan literacy chatbot and explored user interactions with the chatbot, along with perceived usability and usefulness in Phase 2. Our findings highlight design considerations for promoting intention to adopt DFL interventions. The study aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 (No Poverty), 5 (Gender Equality), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

Suggested Citation

  • Pierre Ntakirutimana & Yves Mfitumukiza Ndayisaba & Ganesh Mani & Chimwemwe Chipeta & Patrick Mcsharry & Karen Sowon & Edith Talina Luhanga, 2026. "Preliminary Insights on Digital Financial Literacy Gaps Among Rwandan Youth and Considerations for AI-Powered Interventions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 18(9), pages 1-20, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:18:y:2026:i:9:p:4155-:d:1925714
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