NextBillion - A WDI Publication

On December 9, the FinEquity Africa community will convene virtually to examine the persistent barriers that continue to limit women’s financial inclusion in the region. Women in Sub Saharan Africa remain 12 percentage points less likely than men to own a financial account, a gap that has more than doubled over the past decade, even as developing economies globally have made progress. Limited digital access, restrictive social and gender norms, and financial products that do not reflect women’s needs continue to constrain meaningful inclusion.

This year’s session will place particular emphasis on young women, exploring the challenges they face as they enter the financial system, build livelihoods, and make critical economic decisions. The discussion will focus on how practitioners, funders, policymakers, and other stakeholders can work together to ensure that young women are not left behind, and that financial inclusion strengthens economic agency and resilience across generations.

Originally planned as an in-person convening in Nairobi, the event will now bring the full FinEquity Africa community together online. Drawing on the latest evidence, including the Global Findex 2025, participants will explore what is working, where gaps remain. A dedicated workshop will offer space to identify priorities, share practical experiences, and explore partnerships and actionable solutions to address persistent barriers, particularly those affecting young women.