Exploring Digital Financial Determinants Effect on Financial Inclusion and Economic Resilience: Insights from Sub-Sahara Africa

A large population of sub-Sahara Africa has no or limited access to financial systems and products that are considered important for social development, financial inclusion, and economic resilience. The lack of access to financial systems causes a big concern as it is considered one of the sources of inequalities in these emerging countries. It becomes a priority for these countries as access to financial systems is considered a driver of financial inclusion conducive to economic growth and poverty reduction. However, progress in recent years has had a limited impact on financial inclusion and economic resilience objectives. This study evaluates the contribution of the traditional factor and the digital effect on financial inclusion and economic resilience of sub-Saharan Africa. We analyze financial inclusion data from 23 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The results attest to digital determinants’ positive and significant impact on financial inclusion and economic resilience in this region. It also revealed that mobile financial transaction determinants positively and significantly affect economic resilience. Conversely, domestic credit and inflation are negatively associated with economic resilience. This study makes a theoretical contribution to the literature and has practical implications for policymakers and governments that promote financial inclusion and economic resilience in these regions.