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Towards a Roadmap for Financial Inclusion and the Sustainable Development Goals in Africa: A Bibliometric and Thematic Analysis

Author

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  • Inès Gharbi
  • Aymen Ajina

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the relationship between financial inclusion (FI) and sustainable development goals (SDGs) in Africa. Using the Web of Science database, VOSviewer, and RStudio software, the study analyzed publication trends, key contributors, major themes, collaborative networks, and connections between FI and SDGs, drawing on a corpus of 669 articles published between 2007 and 2024. The findings reveal that research efforts are concentrated in a few countries, notably South Africa, which is the most influential, along with Nigeria and Ghana. Key institutions include the Egyptian Knowledge Bank and the University of South Africa. Professor Simplice Asongu is the most prolific author. Prominent outlets include journals such as Cogent Economics & Finance, and Sustainability, with key roles played by publishers such as Taylor & Francis and Emerald Group Publishing Limited. SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) is the SDG most frequently associated with financial inclusion in Africa, followed closely by SDG 1; 10 and 8. Keyword analysis identifies nine major thematic clusters covering topics such as digital finance, financial literacy, fintech innovation, poverty, gender equality, environmental sustainability, and financial stability. Although co‐authorship networks reveal limited international collaboration, often reflecting regional or institutional partnerships, there is significant potential to foster transnational cooperation. The study emphasizes the need for greater coordination between public and private stakeholders to maximize the impact of FI initiatives on sustainable development in Africa. The study also recommends integrating advanced analytical methods and expanding data sources to enrich future research in this important area.

Suggested Citation

  • Inès Gharbi & Aymen Ajina, 2026. "Towards a Roadmap for Financial Inclusion and the Sustainable Development Goals in Africa: A Bibliometric and Thematic Analysis," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 34(S2), pages 778-796, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:34:y:2026:i:s2:p:778-796
    DOI: 10.1002/sd.70369
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    References listed on IDEAS

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