Scoping Study on Agent Network / Banking Ecosystem in Ethiopia

EEA Hosts Dissemination Workshop on Scoping Study of Agent Network/Banking Ecosystem in Ethiopia

The Ethiopian Economics Association (EEA) convened a Dissemination Workshop on the Scoping Study of the Agent Network/Banking Ecosystem in Ethiopia on November 24, 2025, at the EEA Conference Hall in Addis Ababa. The workshop served as an important platform to present empirical findings and stimulate dialogue among policymakers, financial institutions, researchers, and development practitioners on the evolving dynamics of agent banking and its implications for financial inclusion in Ethiopia.

The study provides an in-depth assessment of the structure, functionality, and performance of the agent network ecosystem in Ethiopia, examining its role in extending financial services to underserved populations and promoting digital financial inclusion. It also explores regulatory, operational, and infrastructural constraints that shape the effectiveness and sustainability of agent networks within the national financial landscape.

This initiative is supported by ReFinD (The Retail Finance Distribution), a research program dedicated to deepening digital financial inclusion for women, low-income households, SMEs, and other retail businesses in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). It is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and implemented by the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) at the University of Ghana.

Dr. Naser Yenus, presented the key findings of the study, underscoring the growing significance of agent networks as intermediaries in bridging the gap between formal financial institutions and marginalized groups. His presentation emphasized evidence-based recommendations for enhancing interoperability, agent liquidity management, and regulatory frameworks to foster a more inclusive financial ecosystem.

The workshop was moderated by Prof. Mengistu Ketema, Executive Director of the Association, who underscored the importance of rigorous research in informing policy and practice in the digital finance domain. In his closing remarks, Prof. Mengistu expressed appreciation to ReFinD for the technical and financial support.

To ensure broader dissemination and public awareness, Dr. Naser Yenus delivered a press release, highlighting the study’s major insights and their policy relevance. The event reaffirmed EEA’s commitment to advancing research and evidence-based dialogue on digital finance, financial inclusion, and economic development in Ethiopia.