Mobile Money Usage Patterns in Rural and Urban Ethiopia: An Ethnographic Comparative Study

Mobile money services have become increasingly popular in Ethiopia as a means to facilitate financial transactions, particularly among rural and urban populations with limited access to traditional banking systems. The research employs qualitative data collection methods including participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions with a diverse sample representative of both rural and urban demographics. Mobile money usage was significantly higher in urban areas (72%) compared to rural regions (45%), driven by factors such as greater internet penetration and financial literacy among urban residents. The study highlights disparities in mobile money adoption between urban and rural Ethiopia, with implications for policy makers aiming to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive financial services. Policy initiatives should focus on enhancing access to mobile money platforms in underserved rural areas through targeted interventions such as subsidies or community-based training programmes. Mobile Money, Rural-Urban Divide, Financial Inclusion, Digital Payments, Ethiopia