Financial inclusion is an essential prerequisite for sustainable development, inclusive growth and will be a fundamental enabler for the stability of the financial system, job growth, digital transformation, and our country’s continued economic development. 

Over the past ten years, the country’s economy has averaged double-digit growth, lifting many Ethiopians out of poverty and improving lives across the nation. Increased financial inclusion for all Ethiopians has been an important factor in this achievement, and continued expansion of financial services will be essential for maintaining the momentum. Recognizing that sustainable, broad-based economic growth and poverty reduction will be challenging without continuing the advancement of scale, depth, and quality of financial services across the country, the Government of Ethiopia identifies increased financial inclusion as a national priority.