Côte d'Ivoire sees rise in financial inclusion via mobile money

Côte d'Ivoire has seen a significant rise in financial inclusion, with the rate increasing from 34% to 58% over the last decade. This growth is primarily driven by the expansion of the electronic money market, which has grown from 11 players in 2019 to 20 in 2026.

According to World Bank data, mobile money now accounts for 55% of financial accounts, surpassing traditional banks (30%) and microfinance (12%). While the use of electronic money reached 84.24% in 2024, a paradox exists in how these services are utilized. While 50% of users employ mobile services for daily payments and 40% for money transfers, only 8% have access to credit and 20% engage in formal savings.

Structural barriers continue to limit deeper financial integration. The primary obstacles cited include a lack of financial resources (60%), high service costs (30%), and geographic distance from physical agencies (20%).