Mobile Money Use in Uganda: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

As mobile phones proliferate in the developing world and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) look for ways to diversify from voice and SMS, mobile money has emerged as an opportunity. While currently used mainly for money transfers, mobile money advocates are enthusiastic about its capability to transform the financial fabric of society, particularly for the poor. We report on a study of mobile money users in Uganda across 3 MNOs. Besides understanding current usage of mobile money, we explore different daily financial transactions of respondents. We investigate the relative importance of these transactions, their frequency, and methods of payment used. Satisfaction with current payment methods and strength of intention to use mobile money if offered for these transactions are captured. The goal is to identify potential new ways to use mobile money in Uganda.