Financial inclusion in Ethiopia: using lsms (Ethiopia socioeconomic survey) data

Abstract

Only less than a quarter of Ethiopian adults have a formal account. In this study, the status, level and determinants of financial inclusion and barriers to financial inclusion in Ethiopia are analysed. We found that better education, financial literacy, gender, age, living in an urban area, living in the capital city, and preference for formal financial services are associated with a greater level of financial inclusion in Ethiopia. Furthermore, we found that involuntary and voluntary exclusion are higher in Ethiopia. We recommend policies that could narrow down gender, religious, and urban-rural gaps and foster financial inclusion in Ethiopia.

Key words: financial inclusion; financial institution; Ethiopia

JEL Classification: G29, O16, D14