The Young Women Financial Inclusion Dissemination Workshop by FSD Uganda
We were privileged to attend the Young Women Financial Inclusion Dissemination Workshop organized by Financial Sector Deepening Uganda (FSD Uganda), which brought together stakeholders from across the financial inclusion ecosystem to discuss practical approaches to deepening financial inclusion for young women in Uganda.
The workshop was opened by Mr. Joseph Lutwama, Director of Research & Insights at FSD Uganda, who highlighted the rationale behind the research. Over the past year, FSD Uganda undertook an in-depth study focusing on young women aged 16–24 years a demographic that represents a significant proportion of Uganda’s population, yet remains among the most financially excluded. The research combined analysis of the FinScope survey data with qualitative studies to better understand the realities behind the statistics.
In his keynote address, Dr. Bob Munene from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development emphasized the importance of inclusive economic participation, noting that “we as a country cannot afford to exclude young women.”
The research findings and insights were presented by the consultants who shared a detailed segmentation of young women and highlighted the diverse financial needs, aspirations and challenges faced by different groups.
Several critical issues affecting financial inclusion emerged from the discussions, including:
• Gaps in National ID registration, which continue to limit access to formal financial services, savings and credit.
• The cost of digital financial services, particularly mobile money, which can be prohibitive for low-income young women.
• The need for innovative products, including bundled financial services such as insurance.
• Greater inclusion of refugees, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
The workshop also explored practical opportunities for financial service providers, policymakers and development partners to design more targeted interventions that respond to the unique needs of young women.
Key recommendations included accelerating financial literacy and awareness initiatives, promoting National ID registration, strengthening access to affordable digital financial services and fostering collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that financial inclusion translates into meaningful economic opportunity.
FinancialInclusion YoungWomen WomenEmpowerment DigitalInclusion EconomicEmpowerment FinancialLiteracy