Mobile Banking's Impact on Rural Women Farmers' Financial Literacy in Tanzania: A One-Year Adoption Study

Mobile banking has emerged as a transformative tool in financial inclusion, particularly for rural communities. In Tanzania, where access to formal financial services is limited, mobile banking platforms offer a viable alternative. However, their impact on enhancing financial literacy among rural women farmers remains underexplored. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including quantitative surveys (N=300) and qualitative interviews (n=25). Data were collected through a structured questionnaire assessing mobile banking usage frequency, service satisfaction, and changes in financial literacy. Interviews explored perceptions of barriers to adoption and strategies for improvement. Mobile banking platforms have been widely adopted by rural women farmers, with over 70% using the services at least once per month. However, challenges such as insufficient mobile phone coverage and limited awareness about available services persist. There is a significant increase in financial literacy scores among users compared to non-users, with an average improvement of 25%. The adoption of mobile banking by rural women farmers demonstrates potential for enhancing financial inclusion and literacy. However, continued efforts are needed to address barriers and ensure equitable access to these services. Policy makers should invest in expanding mobile phone coverage and public awareness campaigns to support the wider adoption of mobile banking platforms among rural communities, particularly women farmers. mobile banking, financial literacy, rural women farmers, Tanzania