Shaibu Haruna, CEO of MobileMoney Ltd, and Prof. Peter Quartey, Director of ISSER, symbolize their commitment to advancing financial inclusion with a firm handshake after signing a groundbreaking research partnership agreement
As we begin a new year, we take a moment to reflect on the remarkable achievements of 2024—a year filled with progress, partnerships, and impactful research that brought us closer to our mission of advancing financial inclusion. From fostering new collaborations to generating evidence that informs policy and practice, ReFinD has continued to play a pivotal role in shaping the financial systems of tomorrow. Here is our roundup of the stories worth celebrating.
Advancing knowledge on financial Inclusion
Mr. Tara Squire and Prof. Peter Quartey seal the partnership with a handshake after signing the landmark agreement to advance financial inclusion through research and innovation.
ReFinD Executive Director Prof. Peter Quartey leads the December 3 inception workshop, bringing together new grantees to foster collaboration for advancing financial inclusion in LMICs
Photo: Nipah Dennis Source: Getty Images
A new study co-funded by ReFinD reveals that the randomised entry of mobile money vendors into Ghana’s local markets leads to significant improvements in firm conduct, service quality, and a decrease in price-cost markups, benefiting consumers. The research also provides evidence of within-market revenue reallocation, a 20% increase in revenues for non-financial goods and services, and overall growth in the service industry.
A shop attendant accepts an e-payment, highlighting the growing role of digital transactions in everyday commerce across Ghana. Credit: Cashkinetic
Building a case for an electronic transactions levy
In a world where approximately 1.4 billion people remain unbanked, providing last-mile banking services remains a critical challenge, even with advancements in technology.
Creator: Mohit Ahuja | Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Photo credit: APAnews.net
ReFinD is partnering with the Ethiopian Economics Association (EEA) on a scoping study to examine Ethiopia’s agent network and broader financial banking ecosystem. The study will explore key characteristics, market structures, stakeholders, challenges, and regulatory frameworks that define agent banking in the country. This in-depth analysis will lay the groundwork for future research and targeted interventions to enhance financial access for Ethiopia’s population.
