This resource is designed to help development actors increase the effectiveness of digital tools and data, while reducing the risks and the potential for harm. We often assume that data protection is the job of informational technology (IT) specialists. IT has a role to play, but so does operations staff. Operations staff determine what data […]

This case study examines two digital savings group solutions – Mvend and SAVE – promoted within UNCDF’s REFAD program in Rwanda. These solutions were adopted by REFAD partners to expand financial inclusion and improve resilience in refugee camps and host communities in Rwanda. The case study discusses some of the successes, enablers, and impediments on […]

Hey Sister! is an IVR (interactive voice response) digital financial literacy (DFL) campaign designed to increase women’s ability to access and use digital financial services (DFS). The campaign lessons are available online for use and adaptation by anyone, anywhere. Particular resources have been tailored and made available for learning and facilitation in Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, […]

This guide summarizes key components and concepts in digital financial capability (DFC) and explores key principles in the design of DFC programs. By leveraging the five principles (Who, What, When, Where, and How) and their associated design elements, financial services providers, policy makers, and other stakeholders can help women customers take the journey toward confident […]

This article explores digital financial capability (DFC) as a critical component of the digital transformation journey, especially for women. Financial capability must evolve to include DFC, so low-income women are not left behind. Research by CFI reveals that traditional financial literacy approaches are ineffective and women are particularly affected by social norms. In the same […]

This learning brief examines the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on women’s savings groups in diverse African contexts and explores how the shift to digitization impacted these groups and their members. Conclusions indicate that women’s savings groups contributed to resilience to economic challenges associated with the pandemic. For example, households with a female member in […]

This FinEquity brief explores the relationship between digital financial literacy (DFL) and women’s digital financial inclusion. The brief outlines the components, enablers, and challenges to women’s DFL, and demonstrates how the various dimensions of DFL are inter-connected and should not be addressed in isolation. Drawing from the experiences of FinEquity members, the brief explores good […]

This article explores the gender gap in mobile phone ownership and efforts to get phones into the hands of more women at the last mile. While these efforts have undeniably increased women’s access to phones, it is less clear if and how women are using phones to improve their lives. The article concludes that handset […]

This white paper, from hiveonline, explores the case for digitizing savings groups. The paper examines the challenges of reaching remote, poor populations and provides a brief introduction to the history, scope, and basic elements of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) methodology. The paper notes that digitization of savings groups can result in the […]