We have launched a COVID-19 Tracker, The survey themes include health and risk behaviours, food security, income, work and job security, personal safety concerns, and access to government and community support. www.covid19tracker.africa
The latest research, blog posts, articles, publications, videos and infographics across all our work.
This report offers a comprehensive analysis of South Africa–SADC remittance markets, exploring pricing, regulation, technology, and market dynamics to identify opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and promote financial inclusion.
This report shares policy recommendations to strengthen South Africa’s informal sector, enhancing competitiveness, resilience and inclusion for informal enterprises.
The FinScope MSME Lesotho 2023 Report provides key insights into financial inclusion trends, the impact of Covid-19, and the effectiveness of financial technologies and products in meeting the needs of MSMEs.
This assessment summarises the impacts observed from the completed SIBE (Support to Improving the Investment and Business Environment) Programme.
As one of the learning partners of the Responsible Finance Forum 2025 by Center for Financial Inclusion by Accion, FinMark Trust hosted a field visit with stakeholders to the Digitalising Incomes for Informal and Low-Income Workers (TIPS) project.
Gender champions and allies are reshaping finance to empower women. Explore how FinMark Trust drives change and how you can support gender equity in financial systems.
Our 2024 Annual Report highlights our commitment to driving meaningful change beyond traditional financial inclusion. With a focus on real impact, we are working towards building a more inclusive financial system that empowers and uplifts our region.
The MSME sector remains a vital source of income, especially for women and young people, despite changes since 2017 due to global challenges. MSMEs have grown by 18%, many remain informal, and business support services are underused.
The Government of Eswatini recognises the MSME sector’s role in strengthening the business climate and creating jobs, with the 2023 Blended FinScope MSME survey tracking changes since the 2017 baseline study to identify key growth opportunities.
The 2023 Eswatini MSME Launch Deck explores key findings from the survey, covering topics such as business insights, support and resilience to shocks, access to financial services, and an overview of financial inclusion.
The FinScope MSME Lesotho 2023 pocket guide highlights key insights on adoption of financial technologies, financial inclusion effectiveness, and the suitability of financial products and services for MSMEs.
Lesotho's MSME sector grew 41% since 2016. Discover latest trends in financial inclusion, access, usage, and Covid-19 impacts in this presentation
The report assesses gender data gaps in SADC, reviewing supply-side data from FSPs and demand-side surveys, with recommendations to improve GDD for women’s financial inclusion and empowerment.
The report recommends an integrated approach to BDS in SADC, highlighting financial inclusion efforts and summarising global best practices for SME financial access.
The 2024 SADC Financial Inclusion Forum featured discussions on digital payments, regulatory frameworks, and innovation, promoting collaboration to enhance financial inclusion and regional investment opportunities.
UN Women has published an analysis of the current status of financial inclusion in SADC countries, with inputs from the SADC Secretariat and FinMark Trust. Read the factsheet.
The UN Women report titled “Her Finance, Her Future – Building Stronger Economies One Woman at a Time” explores the status of financial inclusion in SADC, focusing on women's access to and use of financial services.
FinMark Trust is proud to have contributed to this comprehensive report. Download the Financial Inclusion and Gender in SADC Sub-region Status Report for the statistical findings.
The presentation by Abel Motsomi, Senior Data and Analytics Specialist at FinMark Trust covers the latest findings tracks the progress of sector developments and financial inclusion in South Africa using the FinScope MSME 2020 as a benchmark.
This webinar covers strategies to improve digital payments in Tembisa and Hammanskraal, highlighting the challenges these communities face and detailing the planned interventions to overcome them.
The presentation covers financial inclusion levels, access and usage trends, drivers and barriers, and the impact of COVID-19. FinScope aims to foster evidence-based dialogue for effective interventions to enhance financial inclusion in Malawi.
The 2023 year survey shows financial inclusion has increased, with a significant drop in financial exclusion from 51% in 2014 to 12% in 2023, largely due to the rapid adoption of mobile money services.
The report highlights key survey findings, comparing national-level data to the 2014 survey results to track indicators and trends. It offers a full analysis, disaggregated by gender, age and location.
This roadmap provides a practical framework to improve the availability, quality and use of S-GDD on banking and mobile money across SADC, building on the gap assessment and GDD training workshop.
These guidelines provide a framework for collecting, analysing and reporting S-GDD in banking and mobile money, and for integrating WEE-FI indicators into SADC financial inclusion surveys.
Este guia resume as conclusões do estudo de diagnóstico para apoiar o desenvolvimento de programas específicos de género para a inclusão financeira das mulheres nestes corredores.
Cross-border remittances fuel livelihoods in the SADC region. This guide summarises key findings from the diagnostic study to support the development of gender-specific programmes for women’s financial inclusion in these corridors.
This year's findings highlight the financial challenges in South Africa, with 40% of adults borrowing money for food and 20 million adults experiencing electricity cuts due to affordability in the past year.
The presentation of results by Jabulani Khumalo - Senior Data and Analytics Specialist, a keynote address by Dr. Pali Lehohla, and a panel discussion with experts Kershia Singh, Dr. Thabang Chiloane, and Pamela Ramagaga.
The report outlines the research methodology (desktop and empirical tools), data collection from Aug 2022–May 2023, and key outcomes identified under specific development themes.
Our Annual Report shares our progress in advancing beyond traditional financial inclusion to bring about lasting change focussed on real impact. We're working to create a more inclusive financial system for our region.
This report delves into the experiences of women in the South Africa to Lesotho corridor. It addresses crucial data gaps, aiding in targeted support for digital payments in Southern Africa.
This report delves into the experiences of women in the South Africa to Malawi corridor. It addresses crucial data gaps, aiding in targeted support for digital payments in Southern Africa.
This report delves into the experiences of women in the South Africa to Mozambique corridor. It addresses crucial data gaps, aiding in targeted support for digital payments in Southern Africa.
Este relatório explora as experiências das mulheres no corredor da África do Sul para Moçambique. Ele aborda lacunas críticas de dados, auxiliando no suporte direcionado para pagamentos digitais no Sul da África.
This study aims to refine existing regulatory principles to ensure they effectively cover the activities of microfinance institutions to facilitate their expansion and impact.
Explore Zimbabwe's mobile money evolution, challenges and economic impact with our guide. Drawing on 2018-2021 data, this publication delves into the milestones, regulations and societal effects of mobile money services, and more.
The 2023 review guides SADC states in strengthening mobile money within NPS, harmonising laws to advance financial inclusion, innovation and fintech across the region.
This report assesses ML/TF risks in the SADC to ensure FATF measures against money laundering, terrorist and proliferation financing are effective, proportionate and risk based.
This handbook shares best practices for SME finance, guiding DFIs, policymakers and stakeholders in the SADC region. It draws on regional challenges and global lessons to improve SME funding.
The South African informal sector is a vibrant thread, pulsating with entrepreneurial energy. Valued at almost $10 billion annually and representing 17% of the country’s total employment.
Explore the impact of cross-border remittances from South Africa to Zimbabwe. The IOM commissioned this in-depth study to examine the role of cross-border remittances in households in Zimbabwe.
Formal financial and economic inclusion remains pivotal in addressing the rampant inequality in many African economies today.
The modern world has moved towards digitisation, yet a significant gap remains in terms of financial and economic inclusion, particularly in Africa. Despite this, there is a substantial opportunity to harness the power of data to bridge this gap.
The updated strategy for the period 2023-2028 supports industrialisation, inclusive growth and household security, developed under the EU-funded SIBE programme.
Offre un résumé complet des perspectives précieuses et des discussions stimulantes partagées lors de la conférence. Le rapport comprend des interviews post-événement avec certains de nos principaux parties prenantes.
Offers a comprehensive summary of the valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions shared during the conference. The report features post-event interviews with some of our key stakeholders.
Apresenta um resumo abrangente das perspectivas valiosas e das discussões instigantes compartilhadas durante a conferência. O relatório inclui entrevistas pós-evento com alguns dos nossos principais intervenientes.
The FinScope Tanzania 2023 report highlights key survey findings, comparing national-level data to the 2017 survey results to track indicators and trends. It offers a full analysis, disaggregated by gender, age and location.
For an overview of the key insights from the FinScope Tanzania 2023 survey results, review the one-page summary provided here.
The FinScope Consumer Survey provides reliable benchmarks on financial inclusion in Angola, these findings benefit various sectors, with the aim of improving the lives of Angolan individuals.
O guia de bolso da Pesquisa do Consumidor FinScope Angola 2022 é uma referência confiável para a inclusão financeira em Angola. É um recurso valioso para o desenvolvimento de estratégias eficazes com base em evidências empíricas.
Do we need to do more in terms of educating people about the risks of cash and the benefits of electronic payments?
In 2022, FinMark Trust continued to make progress in our efforts to improve the lives of the poor by prioritising inclusive growth and the development of sustainable livelihoods. Read more in our 2022 annual report.
Twenty years ago, when FinMark Trust was established, we took the dream of making financial markets work for the poor and turned it into reality. Join us as we reflect on this journey, with key milestones highlighted in our digital journal.
This summary guide of the report on the state of the digital payments ecosystem in South African townships (Hammanskraal and Tembisa) shares key insights and recommendations from research conducted in 2022.
The Ghana Demand Side Survey 2021 provides credible benchmarks on the level of financial inclusion and, using empirical evidence, guides focused and targeted financial inclusion strategies.
The financial sector conducted the FinScope Zimbabwe 2022 Consumer Survey for the third time in a row. This repeat survey provides credible benchmarks for the extent and quality of financial inclusion.
The main presentation covers all of the top-line findings for Zimbabwe 2022. With 115 slides of insightful information, we evaluate trends, changes, and interventions over time starting from 2014.
This report reviews the 2016–2021 SADC Financial Inclusion Strategy, assessing progress, lessons and updates on women’s finance, climate, literacy, fintech and future priorities.
The report identifies priorities for SADC financial inclusion, capacity-building for member states, and maps timelines to harmonise policies and regulations with a focus on the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
A comprehensive overview of the key findings from the survey that describes the levels and landscape of access, usage and quality of financial products and services, (both formal and informal), tracking the level of financial access since 2012.
A presentation on the assessment of the size and scope of individual entrepreneurs and owners of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Zimbabwe 2022, focusing on their financial service needs.
This pocket guide highlights key findings from the market assessment of remittance flows into and out of South Africa using SARB data and a mystery shopping exercise looking at the costs of remitting via various channels, from South Africa.
FinMark Trust conducted a market assessment of remittance flows into and out of South Africa using SARB data and a mystery shopping exercise looking at the costs of remitting via various channels, from South Africa to other countries in the SADC.
Presentation on sharing the most recent prices across various channels – as well as addressing some of the market's most significant changes with experts from the field.
This year saw us implementing what we call Financial Inclusion 2.0 to ensure better real sector outcomes for the poor and women in the region. Read more in our 2021 annual report
Throughout this year, we will be documenting our journey to date – and making this public for others to learn from.
Lesotho has seen a significant increase in financial inclusion since 2011. The FinScope Consumer Survey Lesotho 2021 report provides financial inclusion statistics, analyses, insights, and proposed recommendations to improve the lives of Basotho.
The brochure summarises and highlights the FinScope Consumer Survey Lesotho 2021 report's findings. It serves as a quick reference guide to the key statistics and insights.
Impact of Covid-19 and Social unrest a double blow for MSMEs - FinScope uses data to understand current challenges facing MSMEs
Botswana is moving towards the 2021 goal of reducing financial exclusion to 12% or increasing usage of more than one type of formal financial service to 57%.
Early in 2021 FinMark Trust, with support from the FCDO, set out to understand the effects of the pandemic on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Botswana with a telephonic Business Pulse survey and qualitative interviews.
Credit is key to any business – including farming. For FSPs to effectively grant credit to MSMEs, an entire ecosystem is needed. Discover what the state of the discussion is in the SADC member states.
Informal cross border trade is important to the food security, supply of basic medical goods, as well as the livelihoods of millions. Find out more about the key corridors between SA and 5 key countries.
Agriculture supports millions of people across SADC and is key in the development of the region. Discover the barriers and opportunities for FSPs participating in this space in SADC.
This agriculture scoping study focuses on eSwatini as part of the FMT initiative to design market-based interventions that result in more inclusive growth for MSMEs.
This agriculture scoping study focuses on Botswana as part of the FMT initiative to design market-based interventions that result in more inclusive growth for MSMEs.
This agriculture scoping study focuses on Malawi as part of the FMT initiative to design market-based interventions that result in more inclusive growth for MSMEs.
This agriculture scoping study focuses on Lesotho as part of the FMT initiative to design market-based interventions that result in more inclusive growth for MSMEs.
South Africa and Eswatini Remittances Corridor Diagnostic, this report is a compilation of research findings to inform the implementation of the IFAD’s Financial Inclusion and Cluster Development (FINCLUDE) programme in Eswatini.
The objectives of FinScope Botswana 2020 were to understand the adult population in terms of, Livelihoods and how they generate their income, financial needs and demands, financial perceptions, demographic and geographic distribution.
The study aimed to review the impact of the switch from the KYC approach to the risk-based approach on financial inclusion.
South Africa has implemented a shift from a rules-based approach to anti-money laundering and combating terrorist financing (AML/CTF) to a risk-based approach (RBA), a move that came into effect with the amendment to the Financial Intelligence Act.
This report reviews the implementation of the 2014 MAP Eswatini diagnostic, considers market changes, and identifies financial inclusion interventions to grow the economy
This report reviews the implementation of the 2016 MAP Zimbabwe diagnostic, considers market changes, and identifies financial inclusion interventions to grow the economy
With sustainability of data collection in mind, the i2i has set out to test whether or not mobile tech could be used to offer faster and more cost-effective collection.
This scoping study has been conducted to identify the barriers and opportunities to enable affordable digital delivery and access to basic services in Botswana.
This scoping study has been conducted to identify the barriers and opportunities to enable affordable digital delivery and access to basic services in Malawi.
This scoping study has been conducted to identify the barriers and opportunities to enable affordable digital delivery and access to basic services in Eswatini.
This scoping study has been conducted to identify the barriers and opportunities to enable affordable digital delivery and access to basic services in Madagascar.
This scoping study has been conducted to identify the barriers and opportunities to enable affordable digital delivery and access to basic services in Lesotho.
While we continue to focus on inclusive development of financial markets, we expanded our strategies to include a more direct focus on real economy impacts with FI 2.0
Making impact through innovations in financial inclusion
The FinScope Mozambique 2019 survey is the third FinScope survey implemented in Mozambique, following the baseline of 2009 and repeat of 2014.
FinScope 2019 marca o terceiro ciclo em que este inquérito nacionalmente representativo sobre a inclusão financeira é efectuado em Moçambique
This dashboard represents some of the key market data on financial inclusion with a focus on females.
Este painel representa alguns dos principais dados de mercado sobre inclusão financeira com foco nas mulheres.
This MAP report reviews the implementation of the 2015 MAP diagnostic, considers market changes, and identifies financial inclusion interventions to grow the economy.
Documenting the findings of the research study on socio-economic factors faced by South African social grant recipients while also assessing similar global initiatives.
Given the importance of social grants in the livelihoods of the poor, it is appropriate to leverage this mechanism to promote income generation and security of livelihoods.
As viewed, moving grant distribution towards greater impact requires the establishment, promotion and support of inclusive digital payment ecosystems at community level.
This 2019 report is the third in an annual series that assess the level of financial inclusion in selected SADC countries where the MAP programme has been implemented.
SADC Innovation Challenge objectives, competition timelines, the thematic challenges, the participant overview, and the in-country and regional winners.
Highlighting the usage of access to financial services in South Africa in 2019, to better understand market needs and attitudes of both informal and formal offerings.
View the presentations on the effects of COVID-19 on domestic payments and cross-border remittances in the SADC region below.
The SADC region is not trailing far behind in the use of technological innovation to foster growth, with a small but fast-growing tech-enabled community.
View highlights from the Mozambique FinScope Consumer Survey 2019 comparing levels of financial inclusion between 2019 and 2014.
View highlights from the Mozambique FinScope Consumer Survey 2019 comparing levels of financial inclusion between 2019 and 2014.
Mozambique implemented the 3rd Mozambique FinScope Survey to help monitor and evaluate sector interventions driven by the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS).
Read this 2019 full report for more information about the state of financial inclusion in Mozambique.
O Dinheiro Móvel tem evoluído para um bem utilitário que faculta marioritariamente serviços financeiros à população não-bancária.
Le Mobile Money s’est développé en un outil visant à fournir des services financiers en grande partie à la population non bancarisée.
Mobile Money has evolved as a utility to provide financial services largely to the unbanked population.
This report is prepared to provide insight into the Malawi MSME sector using the FinScope Malawi MSME 2019 survey.
In South Africa to the rest of SADC, Remittance Pricing report, presented are the findings from a mystery shopping exercise
Read more on the research findings on cross border remittances from South Africa to the rest of SADC 2020.
Development Roadmap lays out a vision and implementation framework for the development of the SME sector in Malawi.
Informal remittance markets in many countries are well established but often expose the remitter to delays and the risk of theft and other losses.
The Focus Group Discussion (FGD) Report is based on findings from 6 focus group discussions with over 30 MSME owners.
2020 South Africa Youth Month infographic dashboard using FinScope 2019 data
The lack of recent, holistic and reliable information about the MSME sector was identified to be a significant barrier from past consumer surveys and the MAP process.
This report focuses on how FinMark Trust support in innovation that drives impact and enables marginalised communities to work towards sustainable livelihoods through financial inclusion.
This report focuses on how FinMark Trust support in innovation that drives impact and enables marginalised communities to work towards sustainable livelihoods through financial inclusion.
This report captures the findings of the country context, demand-side, supply-side, and policy and regulatory reviews.
Read more on COVID-19 livelihood impacts, health behaviours and awareness in Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa.
Trend insights on the nature and prevalence of digital platforms operating across eight African countries
We are currently collecting data for the COVID-19 Tracker. Click on the link to visit the website for more information.
The future of measuring financial needs.
What policymakers need to know
Insights for an inclusive and tech-enabled insurance sector in Egypt.
We revisit our purpose of Making financial markets work for the poor by promoting financial inclusion and inclusive growth in the 2019 Annual Report.
Read our report and insights on the financial needs of Mexicans, a pilot study in collaboration with the Mexican regulator, CNBV.
Read our summary report of the findings from the Financial Needs pilots, in partnership with AFI members from Mexico, Nigeria, Kenya, Philippines and Zimbabwe.
Read our blog with Accion Center for financial inclusion analysing frequency of usage.
Read our blog, featuring insights from BSP Philippines on new perspectives from using the financial needs approach.
SADC Secretariat, SADC Banking Association, FinMark Trust, FSD Mozambique, FSD Tanzania, FSD Zambia and Graça Machel Trust convened a 2-day SADC regional gender workshop
insight2impact is seeking an individual or firm to synthesise existing learning and best practice on the concept and measurement of financial health.
There are more youth showing high levels of accountability for monthly expenditure than seniors. See the FinScope Benin Youth 2019 dashboard.
Read the full report on the use of digital financial services in Nigeria
This presentation is on inequality in middle income countries: A financial inclusion lens using FinScope.
Exploring the relationship between platforms, participants and financial services.
The DataHack4FI Innovation Competition promotes the use of data analytics to solve challenges experienced by individuals or communities.
A measurement framework for digital financial services with a focus on digital payments.
Farming is the financial backbone for over half (58%) of the households in Benin.
The MAP country implementation is a key pillar of the SADC FI strategy, implemented with the SADC Secretariat and the SADC Committee for Central Bank Governors.
The primary objective of this report is to deliver unique insights regarding the impact of DataHack4FI Season 2 on fintechs and aspiring data scientists.
The forum was held under the theme “Strengthening Financial Inclusion in Zimbabwe, from Policy to Practice: Lessons and Way Forward”
The fourth SADC Financial Inclusion Forum was held this year to further advance the aspirations of the SADC Strategy on Financial Inclusion and SME access to finance.
Applying the Risk-Based Approach – Undertaking AML/CTF Risk Assessment of low-value remittance and banking products and services in South Africa
The FinScope Gambia 2019 survey is a research diagnostic meant to support the government of Gambia
An update on behavioural interventions which have proven to influence financial decisions.
Exploring behavioural interventions to increase formal remittances.
Exploring behavioural interventions to improve insurance.
MAP is a diagnostic and programmatic framework to support expanding access to financial services for individuals and micro and small- businesses.
La majorité des jeunes (76%) trouvent qu’il est difficile de gérer des engagements financiers.
The application of an innovative approach to cognitive interviewing.
Exploring mobile surveys as a viable means of data collection.
L’élaboration de ce document de Stratégie Nationale d’Inclusion Financière de Madagascar (SNIM 2018-2022)
L’élaboration de ce document de Stratégie Nationale d’Inclusion Financière de Madagascar (SNIM 2018-2022)
This strategy document will ensure effective coordination and an improved synergy
Explore our latest research on Digital Africa, the platform economy and associated financial services
The Eswatini Making Access Possible (MAP) for Growth: Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Development Roadmap.
This National Financial Inclusion Strategy document of Madagascar (NFIS 2018- 2022)
The Government of Eswatini has made considerable effort towards developing the SME sector since the early 2000s.
Improving efficiency in mobile-money agent networks
The potential of alternative data to better serve MSMEs in Zambia
The FinScope South Africa 2018 Survey highlighted many issues pertinent to financial inclusion in South Africa.
Targeting small businesses with personalised business advice and predicting successful loan applications
This pocket guide represents some of the key market data on financial inclusion.
The journey of renewal for FinMark Trust (FMT) has continued during the past financial year
Targeting beginner and experienced stock market traders with a digital investment platform.
The Burkina Faso Financial Inclusion Roadmap 2018 – 2022
La Feuille de Route pour l’inclusion financière du Burkina Faso 2018-2022
This summary presents the main findings on impact and drivers of change for SaveAct savings groups programme
The OneMoney Hackathon was held at the TelOne Centre for Learning from the 13th -15th July 2018
In partnership with FinMark Trust, UNDP hosted a Hackathon as part of the Lesotho SIMM Project.
The feasibility assessment aimed to provide recommendations on the use cases of domestic financial inclusion the digital financial ID
Client data and its role in inclusive insurance
Seeking to better understand the trends and the underlying motivation to use financial services
This MAP Refresh Myanmar document follows on from the original MAP (Making Access Possible) exercise in Myanmar in 2013/2014.
Understanding the use of digital financial services in Nigeria.
Making Access Possible is a multi-country initiative to support financial inclusion through a process of evidence-based country diagnostic and stakeholder dialogue, leading to the development of national financial inclusion roadmaps.
Objectives of FinScope Haiti 2018
This roadmap document is produced as part of a series of documents in the Making Access Possible (MAP) Lesotho initiative.
InvestXD created a digital investment platform for women and youth.
See how this Datahack4FI team is digitising savings groups in Rwanda
A framework for examining how a person’s usage of various financial services makes a difference in their financial life.
The financial inclusion indicators are constructed from 14 SADC countries using findings of the FinScope Consumer surveys.
DataHack4FI in-country winners from Ghana offer a multiple-database-verification API solution to identity verification.
DataHack4FI Rwanda winners, AgriGO, aims to tackle financial vulnerability of smallholder farmers.
ZedCredit from Zambia provides access to savings, loans and a credit score via their mobile app.
SADC Financial Inclusion Strategy
An introduction to FinMark Trust and the impactful work it has done through Financial Inclusion in making financial markets work for the poor.
This repeat survey provides credible benchmarks on level of financial inclusion, financial capability and the quality of financial inclusion.
The aim of the project is to develop Mobile Money guidelines to assist SADC Member States with principles to facilitate the harmonisation
See the presentation for the FinScope Consumer Survey Myanmar 2018.
See what the i2i needs measurement framework reveals about consumer behaviour in Zimbabwe.
Consultez le tableau de bord de FinScope Cameroon Youth.
View the FinScope Cameroon Agriculture dashboard.
View the FinScope Cameroon Agriculture dashboard.
View the FinScope Cameroon Youth dashboard.
The DRC has a long standing history of migrant flows, and historically flows to and from Europe have been of particular importance.
The DRC has a long standing history of migrant flows, and historically flows to and from Europe have been of particular importance.
This pocket guide represents some of the key market data on financial inclusion in Cameroon.
View the FinScope Cameroon Regional Financial Access Strand Dashboard.
Making Access Possible (MAP) is a diagnostic and programmatic framework to support expanding access to financial services.
View the FinScope Cameroon Regional Financial Access Strand Dashboard.
The Government of Eswatini has been working towards the development of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.
SADC migrants in South Africa remit approximately R16.6 billion home annually.
Many people don’t actively use formal financial services. Understanding why can render important policy insights. This note unpacks the various drivers of usage.
Access to formal remittance services is difficult for many migrants because of the onerous documentation requirements.
Meet the 10 teams from six countries who will be pitching in the DataHack4FI Grande Finale.
The Namibia Financial Inclusion Survey Report 2017.
The Report also uses data from the Annual Report of the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) and the Annual Supervision Report of the NBC for the year 2016.
This synthesis report summarizes a series of document produced as part of the MAP Cambodia Initiative.
Brochure for the Namibia Financial Inclusion Survey 2017.
Using transactional and CRM data to identify an underserved consumer segment
Exploring how financial service providers collect, store and use data in six countries.
View the Swaziland Business Development Measure dashboard for 2017.
A recent study identified 18 unique behavioural interventions that FSPs can implement to influence the savings, credit, payment and insurance decisions of individuals.
DataHack4FI Season 1 in-country winner for Ghana
Options for sustainable data collection
How a spatial understanding of financial inclusion can contribute to meaningful measurement and impact
Guidelines, standards and best practices for spatial data
Mobiticket is a start-up based in Nairobi. It focuses on digitising the informal public transport sector across developing countries.
The Cambodia Financial Inclusion Roadmap (2018- 2025) provides guidance for achieving the vision of increased financial inclusion in Cambodia.
A report by the World Economic Forum (WEF) explores the rise of technology-enabled innovation and ways to measure FI, with an input from i2i.
Pour que les Togolais adultes puissent tirer le meilleur parti des ressources financières disponibles
The research report study focused on the factors that drove the termination of mobile money services in South Africa.
This document sets out the comprehensive diagnostic findings which will feed into the Roadmap that will be developed in collaboration with the MAP steering committee.
This roadmap document is produced as part of a series of documents in the Making Access Possible (MAP) Madagascar initiative.
Introducing a Uganda-based fintech company that supports MSMEs in automating and optimising their operations.
We celebrated our fifteenth year of service and pioneering work on innovative approaches to financial inclusion globally.
Discover new technologies that enable more sustainable data collection.
A case study exploring how data can be used to overcome financial services delivery challenges.
A tool to assist practitioners more accurately interpret and report financial inclusion estimates
A process that can be used to design financial inclusion measuring instruments.
The IFC handbook explains the potential that data and analytics present for financial inclusion and for FSP operations
MAP compiles a comprehensive picture of financial inclusion drivers, barriers and opportunities across the country context
L’initiative « Rendre l’Accès Possible » (Making Access Possible - MAP) est une initiative multi pays visant à appuyer l’inclusion financière à travers
Exploring the potential of alternative data for creating new markets
It is in this pursuit that the Government of Swaziland initiated the first FinScope MSME Survey Swaziland 2017.
Addressing energy poverty by scaling up the availability of affordable and more efficient energy services is the key to improve social equity
FinMark Trust, in partnership with SADC Secretariat and the SADC Banking Association is proud to have co-hosted the second Financial Inclusion Indaba
Financial services can also facilitate access to core services, such as health or education.
Opportunity for research houses to participate in study.
This report was commissioned by FinMark Trust and carried out through Genesis to assess the cost of cross-border remittances in South Africa.
The Laos Financial Inclusion Roadmap 2016 – 2020 lays out the national priorities for the enhancement of financial inclusion in the Lao PDR
Introduction to measurement frameworks
Determining our focus: A scan of the financial inclusion measurement field
The presentation briefly illustrates the FinScope process and the analytical framework of the surveys.
Financial service usage: A conceptual model
Catering to every need: A measurement framework for functional financial service needs
Digging deeper: A measurement framework for depth of financial inclusion
Making good use: A measurement framework for financial service usage
Provide technical and authoring support for Zimbabwean study
A quarter of South Africans rely on social grants and the grant allows millions to access formal financial services.
The journey to the DataHack4FI finals
This paper reports on the determinants of small business access to finance (both formal and informal) in 5 countries in the SADC region
Additional deeper dives on key thematic areas can be found on the data dashboards on agriculture, youth and clean energy.
Nkosi heads up i2i's Applications Lab
The Government of Togo recognises the role played by the financial sector in facilitating economic growth through enhanced access to financial services.
A third of adults in SADC are indebted and with access to credit from either a formal or informal lender.
MAP Togo vise le développement d’un cadre stratégique pour la finance inclusive au Togo.
This note specifically explores the drivers and barriers
This note specifically explores the steps in the data value chain
This report provides an update on the available money transfer offerings that facilitate remittance flows from South Africa to other countries in SADC.
The Central Bank of Seychelles (CBS) and the Financial Services Authority (FSA) commissioned FinMark Trust to undertake a Baseline Survey on Financial Literacy.
This report captures the findings of the country context, demand-side, supply-side, and policy and regulatory reviews.
The level of education has implications on financial literacy. Formal education systems provide numeracy and comprehension skills.
This paper presents a cross-country comparison of mobile money ownership and its determinants together with the factors affecting mobile money adoption.
The FinScope MSME Survey Lesotho 2016 was conducted with a sample of 2182 adult business owners who were selected at a household level across the country.
Spatial Data for Business Intelligence Workshop proceedings
See the Financial Intelligence Centre Amendment (FICA) Act: Pre-implementation Study in South Africa report.
The baseline study measured the level of financial literacy amongst the adult population and provided an assessment of the needs of the population.
The Malagasy economy is not diversified and economic growth is focused on a few sectors and regions qualified as growth poles due to their high population density
Over the past five years, the move towards digital financial services and simplified account opening procedures has improved the take-up of accounts by the poor.
This year's review traces the overall progress made by FinMark Trust in the implementation of its programme to "make financial markets work for the poor".
This report provides an overview of innovations and best practice in data collection
The second gis4FI community of practice knowledge-sharing
This synthesis note summarises the main findings of the MAP Lao PDR diagnostic
Phnom Penh, 12 July 2016. FinMark Trust released the results of the first FinScope in Cambodia
As the income levels rise, more and more males have higher proportions in rising income categories than females.
At country level, the core MAP partners, collaborate with other donors to ensure an inclusive, holistic process.
Alternative data sources and analytical methodologies
The research first required an understanding of the global landscape regarding agricultural subsidies, including some analysis of the changes over time,
Most households in Cambodia have multiple sources of income, and the adult population is largely dependent on the informal sector.
This Diagnostic report presents a comprehensive analysis of the financial inclusion environment in Botswana
The case studies highlight the important role that low-cost financing solutions can play within the health system.
Worldwide, countries have been increasing their efforts to expand the financial services sector, particularly to low income consumers.
The discussions revealed that the challenges in financial education are similar across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and that important lessons could therefore be learnt
Findings show that affordability of schemes is a key challenge for the low income market, largely due to regulatory constraints prescribed within the Medical Schemes Act.
Making Access Possible (MAP) is a diagnostic and programmatic framework to support expanding access to financial services for individuals and micro-and small businesses.
See the results of the FinScope Consumer Survey South Africa 2016.
First community of practice learning session
This report summarises the findings of the MAP Botswana diagnostic, a comprehensive study of the scope for financial inclusion in Botswana
This roadmap document is produced as part of a series of documents in the Making Access Possible (MAP) Botswana initiative.
This study investigated the nature of abuse in the informal funeral parlour market by talking to consumers themselves.
GIS is increasingly informing decision-making in financial inclusion.
FinMark Trust launched the results of the Financial inclusion survey of Rwanda on 3 March 2016.
Presentation on understanding the current state of regional financial integration (RFI) within the SADC region.
New Insight2Impact Lead - Celina Lee
FinMark Trust, in collaboration with the SADC Secretariat hosted a SADC financial inclusion strategy workshop in February 2016.
The MAP diagnostic informs a roadmap that provides detailed and actionable steps to achieve the financial inclusion priorities.
The first step in a long journey towards a harmonised legal and regulatory framework for payments in the SADC.
The SADC Secretariat and FinMark Trust identified the need to understand the current state of regional financial integration (RFI) within the SADC region.
See the results of the Lesotho cross-border transaction volumes and values for 2015.
Financial Inclusion in SADC through the FinScope Lenses” provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of financial inclusion in the twelve SADC states.
Download the 2017 i2i Brochure
Government efforts to promote access to formal credit of SMEs are synonymous with encouraging growth of these enterprises.
A wide divergence exists in the level of credit information sharing across different SADC
The Government of Lao PDR recognises the role played by the financial sector in facilitating economic growth through enhanced access to financial services.
i2i team hosted a workshop for the FSD Network
The 2015 FinScope survey shows that in South Africa levels of financial inclusion remain stable at 87% compared to 86% in 2014.
The 2015 FinScope survey shows that in South Africa levels of financial inclusion remain stable at 87% compared to 86% in 2014.
AML/CFT implementation in developing countries and financial inclusion
The last phase of the project was to discuss the findings of the country reports and the innovations/best practices report with country stakeholders
Below are some of the highlights from the 2014 survey, conducted between April and July 2014
FinScope Mozambique 2014 is the second national financial inclusion survey, following that of 2009,
The FinScope Survey Mozambique 2014 study is an initiative by the Ministry of Economy and Finance and co-funded by the Department for International Development (DFID)
Focus note 1 - Financial Inclusion and AML/CFT
This brochure highlights some of the key findings from the Nepal FinScope Consumer Survey 2014.
Focus Note 2: Risk-based approaches to AML/CFT
Focus Note 3: AML / CFT due diligence and related matters
Focus Note 4: Mobile services / technology
Focus Note 5: Harmonisation of regulatory frameworks in the SADC region
Consolidated report Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism in Certain SADC Countries
The overall aim of the Indaba was to promote financial inclusion in the SADC region for the purpose of inclusive economic growth and poverty alleviation.
Read about the FinScope Consumer Survey Lao 2014 results here.
Study on the Impact of the SADC Integrated Regional Electronic Settlement System (SIRESS) on Transaction Costs and Practices.
As one of the main drivers of financial inclusion in the SADC region, FinMark Trust continues to play a critical role in the creation of inclusive financial markets
To measure and profile the levels of access to financial services by all adults in Laos (18 years and older)
The Trust has had a very good year and has made significant progress in facilitating financial markets to work for the poor.
This note considers a method of measuring the value of life microinsurance
This paper analyses the question through the lens of the low-income consumer in South Africa.
The case of a funeral administrator
See the FinMark Trust Annual Report 2013.
The Yearbook is intended to provide housing finance practitioners, with a current update of practice and developments in housing finance in Africa
The aim of the study is to produce a mapping of potential financial services distribution channels in SADC.
See the launch presentation of the FinScope Consumer Survey Thailand 2013.
The objectives of the FinScope Thailand survey were to measure and profile the levels of access to financial services by all adults in Thailand
FinMark Trust conducted a study which aimed to evaluate the current FE curriculum used by SaveAct and its delivery to SCG members
The study is the second phase of a three-year programme to increase access to and the uptake of rural and agricultural financial services in southern Africa
FinMark Trust commissioned research to identify the systemic constraints that prevent financial markets from reaching out to these consumers
The study is located in the context of centuries of formal and informal racial division in South Africa.
This country study examines the status of agricultural and rural finance in Zambia in order to better understand the context
Through this study a Financial Education ToolKit (FE) was developed.
Presentation by Kim Dancey delivered at the linkages workshop held on 15 July 2013.
FinMark Trust, with the assistance of a team from the consulting firm Genesis Analytics, developed a Financial Education ToolKit.
This comprehensive report presents the consolidated findings gathered during field research and an assessment of SaveAct's FE against global best practices.
The objectives were to provide a holistic review of the housing finance mechanisms that are presently utilised.
The Government of Zimbabwe recognises the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as important contributors to job creation, poverty alleviation and development.
Developing an effective financial education strategy for peri-urban and rural savings and credit groups
Presentation delivered by Peter Gross at the Insurers Assocation Zambia Seminar on 28 May 2013.
See the presentation on the AUHF, an organisation of mortgage banks, building societies, housing corporations
This presentation aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the housing finance sector in Zambia
The key objective of the projects is to understand the legal insurance environment in South Africa
Presentation delivered at the Insurers Association of Zambia seminar on 28 May 2013 by Lemmy Manje - Is microinsurance a growth sector in Zambia?
The study is the second phase of a three-year programme to increase access to and the uptake of rural and agricultural financial services in southern Africa
Africa is the next investment frontier and the SADC region has some of the most attractive investment opportunities on the continent.
Executive summary - the status of rural and agricultural financial services in Southern Africa 2011
The National Strategy on Financial Education for Zambia, which is set out in this document, has the primary objective of empowering Zambians with the knowledge
The National Strategy on Financial Education for Zambia sets out the direction and framework for improving financial literacy among Zambians.
This report is to better understand the role and use of co-operative financial institutions in South Africa, Malawi and Swaziland.
This booklet provides an overview of access to financial services, especially banking services, in Botswana.
This presentation focuses on the performance of mortgages granted to lower income households in South Africa since 2004.
Better understand the role and use of co-operative financial institutions (CFIs) as viable alternatives to the commercial banking sector for accessing financial services.
This report is a nationally representative survey focusing on the status of small businesses in Malawi.
The report is part of a series commissioned by FinMark Trust to examine the retail payments landscape in Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Zambia.
This report is part of a series commissioned by FinMark Trust to examine the retail payments landscape in Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
See the 2012 Annual Report here.
Document 8: Understanding consumer needs and segmenting the target market
Headline findings summary and way forward
'Growing Housing Opportunities in Africa: Encouraging Investment and Growing the Market'. The conference was attended by over 320 delegates from across the globe
Document 7: The role of policy, regulation and supervision in building an inclusive insurance market
This document describes frog's approach, findings and recommendations.
Document 5: Product and distribution landscape
This report is part of the series commissioned by FinMark Trust to examine the retail payments landscape in Malawi.
The purpose of this paper is to analyse the effectiveness of HCPs in meeting the cost of health care for low income-earners.
The housing finance in Africa year book is intended to provide readers insight into the practice and developments in housing finance in Africa
Increased financial inclusion has been recognised as crucial to encouraging home ownership, household savings plans and the expansion of small business
This study hypothesizes that the ability to make payments conveniently and affordably has a material impact on the financial lives of the poor.
The purpose is to gain insight into some of the challenges experienced in Botswana in improving access to rural finance
The research points to many challenges ahead of efforts to provide and encourage use of convenient and affordable formal payment services
This study provides a broad overview of the status of rural and agricultural finance in Malawi
This study is to examine the current state of rural and agricultural financial services in Mozambique
The Government of Swaziland recognises the significant role of the financial services sector in contributing to the overall economic growth of the country.
Commissioned by CBL, the FinScope Lesotho 2011 survey was conducted by Ask Afrika, with funding and technical assistance from FinMark Trust.
The funding of health care in South Africa has a long and complex history. Private medical schemes operate as not for profit trusts and pool members
In recent years, social grants have injected money into rural communities on a scale previously unimaginable.
Focus Notes - Microinsurance innovations strategies to increase scale and outreach.
See the presentation of turning corner stores into banks in Mexico.
Why Payment Systems matter to Financial Inclusion
It is well known that there are large remittance flows from South Africa to other countries in the SADC region and that a substantial proportion of such flows are informal
The 2012 FinScope survey was commissioned by Access to Finance Rwanda (AFR) and not FinMark Trust.
View the 2011 Namibia, FinScope Consumer survey Brochure
Viability of microinsurance strategies to increase scale and outreach.
FinMark Trust commissioned Progressus Research Development to document the experiences of recipients (cash and electronic) to provide insights
The focus of this study was to gain insight into remittance behaviour and patterns of the SADC migrant population
SaveAct A rural savings model in South Africa.
Understanding Strategies and Opportunities to Promote Livelihoods Strategies and Small Enterprise Development
See the results of the FinScope Consumer Survey Zimbabwe 2011.
See the South Africa-SADC remittance channel report here.
See the report of the FinScope Consumer Survey Zimbabwe 2011.
See the protocol on finance and the investment background and process.
FinMark Trust commissioned a research report that provided, amongst other findings, an initial estimate of the size of the SADC remittance market.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
The study aimed to sketch the landscape of retail payment services in South Africa that have a positive impact on financial inclusion
The study aimed to sketch the landscape of retail payment services in South Africa that have a positive impact on financial inclusion
The study aimed to sketch the landscape of retail payment services in South Africa that have a positive impact on financial inclusion
The study aimed to sketch the landscape of retail payment services in South Africa that have a positive impact on financial inclusion
The FIP is supported by the content of the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Plan (RISDP) which articulates the broader level goals that underpin the FIP
The profile of retail payment services and models in South Africa, Focus Note 1.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
A report reflecting the state of progress of implementation of the Protocol on Finance and Investment in SADC.
This report summarises the findings of the first phase of the work, namely, an assessment of the current state of rural and agricultural financial services in the region
This case study reflects on regulatory developments in the South African microinsurance market intended to better protect lower income consumers of insurance
This report was commissioned by the Office of The Registrar of Insurance and Retirement Funds (RIRF) in Swaziland.
See the 2011 Annual Report.
Understanding the last mile in cross-border money transfers from South Africa to Zambia.
See the report on Microfinance in Angola Landscape, regulation, monitoring and support.
SADC microfinance study - landscape, regulatory environment, level of monitoring and support
Drivers of conservative compliance responses in the South African financial services industry.
This focus note highlights our experience as 'mystery shoppers'; presents pricing data collected from banks, the Post Office and SWIFT.
See the report on retail payment systems and models in South Africa.
FSC mortgage loan performance with real data presentation delivered at the FinMark Forum in August 2011.
FinMark Trust in conjunction with the Ministry of Finance embarked on a FinScope survey which was conducted by the ZIMSTAT from July 2011 to November 2011.
The Ministry of Finance established the Micro-Finance Unit in September 2010 to facilitate the development and sustainability of the microfinance sector in the country.
View the FinScope Consumer Survey Namibia 2011 Report
See the Microinsurance seminar presentation with Cenfri in Zambia.
See the microinsurance seminar presentation in Zambia with British American.
See the presentation on Beyond sales - extracts from Brazil and Colombia.
See the FinScope Consumer South Africa 2011 results.
FinScope South Africa Small Business Survey 2010 Full Report
It was initiated in line with the FinMark Trust's mandate, that is, to promote regional financial inclusion and integration within SADC.
See the executive summary Moving Towards Economic Independence for Social Grant Recipients through the Self-help Approach.
This study examined the retirement systems of Namibia with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of Seychelles with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of Madagascar with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of Angola with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of Botswana with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of DRC with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of Malawi with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of Zambia with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of Zimbabwe with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of SADC with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of Tanzania with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of Swaziland with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
This study examined the retirement systems of Mozambique with a view to drawing lessons from their experiences in addressing old age provision
See the report of the Microinsurance Acceleration Facility.
This study, entitled the Zimbabwe Remittance Corridor Think Piece, was commissioned by Cenfri, on behalf of the FinMark Trust
Understanding the last mile in cross-border money transfers from South Africa to Zambia
See the brochure for the FinScope Small Business South Africa 2010.
Rural finance presentation on The State of Rural and Agricultural finance in SADC Initial findings.
Exploring market opportunities in Zambia. Industry presentations done based on FinScope Zambia 2009 data.
See the report on the review of South African microfinance - successes, challenges and policy issues.
Presentation - exploring market opportunities in Zambia.
See the 2010 Annual Report.
The primary objective of the FinScope survey is to measure and profile levels of access to financial services by all adults in South Africa
FinScope Mozambique 2009 is the first national survey of its kind, in which a representational cross-section of all adult Mozambicans have been interviewed comprehensively
See the 2009 Annual Report.
The findings from the FinScope 2009 suggest that 41 percent of the adult population is banked and 59 percent are unbanked.
The studies cover the demand, usage and access to all types of financial institutions from commercial banks
See the Survey on Demand for Financial Services in Botswana - FinScope 2009 presentation.
The Ugandan government has made considerable efforts to reform and develop the country's economy.
The Mzansi account is an entry-level bank account, based on a magnetic stripe debit card platform, developed by the South African banking industry
See the Access to Finance study presentation in Pakistan.
This research study identifies four main factors that support the need and viability of a broad-based pension scheme
The report will be of benefit to countries striving towards the dual goals of protecting their institutions against money laundering and the financing of terrorism
FinScope Rwanda 2008 makes a number of recommendations on the basis of the survey results.
When the South African anti-money laundering regulations were drafted in 2002, the Minister of Finance made an exemption to protect so-called mass market banking services
FinScope Malawi 2008 was commissioned by the Ministry of Finance and the FinMark Trust, with funding from the UKAID
The objective of this study is to investigate the landscape for recourse in South Africa's financial services sector.
This paper aims to assess if the mobile phone has any additive or transformational potential in Zambia.
The objective of this study is to investigate the landscape for recourse in South Africa's financial services sector
See the 2008 Annual Report.
Rwanda has adopted a Financial Sector Development Program (FSDP) in order 'to develop a stable and sound financial sector
See the research presentation prepared for Banque Nationale Du Rwanda 2008.
The intra-SADC remittance market is estimated to comprise at least R6.2bn in annual cross-border flows (or approximately US$1bn).
FinScope surveys have been developed to track patterns of usage of, access to and attitudes towards financial services in a country.
See the 2007 Annual Report.
Much has been said about the potential for cell phone banking as it rides on the back of the explosion of cell phone usage in Africa
This paper analyses the potential impact of this Act and its regulations on access to all forms of financial services.
This booklet examines access to financial services, particularly banking services, in Botswana.
One of the key barriers to access to financial services to the poor and particularly to the poor living in remote rural areas is the price of being banked.
It is estimated that over 6 million people currently belong to burial societies where an estimated R6 billion is invested every year.
A review of the capacity, lessons learned and way forward for member-based financial institutions in South Africa