Mobile Money in Ethiopia: Advancing financial inclusion and driving growth

In 2020, Ethiopia allowed non-banks to provide mobile money services – a key step in advancing financial inclusion and driving growth. This study looks at the rapidly evolving mobile money ecosystem, and opportunities to boost adoption and usage.

The research outlines the impact mobile money can have on individuals, households and businesses. If Ethiopia experiences high adoption, such as in Kenya, Ghana and Uganda, mobile money could lift 700,000 people out of poverty, add $5.3 billion to Ethiopia’s GDP, increase tax revenue by $300 million and provide a cushion for the economic shocks experienced by almost 40% of households.

Leveraging interviews and focus groups with mobile money users, the report offers recommendations for key actors engaged in the ecosystem, including service providers, policymakers and development partners, on how to drive mobile money adoption in Ethiopia.