Mobile Banking and Financial Inclusion in Rural Kenya: A Qualitative Exploration

Mobile banking has emerged as a critical tool for financial inclusion in rural areas of Kenya. Qualitative data were collected through interviews with a purposive sample of mobile banking users in selected rural communities. The method involved semi-structured questionnaires designed by the researchers to capture detailed insights into user experiences and perceptions. The findings indicate that mobile banking has significantly increased access to financial services among rural Kenyans, particularly for low-income groups who previously had limited or no access to traditional banking channels. Mobile banking plays a pivotal role in enhancing financial inclusion by bridging the digital divide and providing affordable financial products tailored to rural needs. Governments and private sector entities should invest more in mobile banking infrastructure, particularly in underserved rural areas, to further strengthen financial inclusion efforts.