Measuring usage of and access to banking services in four African countries
This paper presents an overview of an approach to quantifying access and access constraints for banking services using demand-side surveys and product data based on the Access Frontier methodology as outlined by Porteous (2005). The methodology captures the distinction between usage and access, one that is important for both policymakers who desire a more inclusive financial sector as well as product providers who would like to see greater market adoption of the products and services they provide.
The analysis uses data from various FinScopeTM surveys to identify and quantify assumptions relating to likely access constraints including physical access, affordability and awareness or financial literacy for the unbanked segment of the market. The analysis indicates that the vast majority of the unbanked in the countries under review do not have access to banking services because one or more components of the banking offering is not aligned to the characteristics of the market. Full report available below.