A recent study by the Financial Inclusion Observatory and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has highlighted the challenges faced by women in accessing banking services in seven governorates in central and southern Tunisia. The study found that only 18% of women in these regions have a bank account, revealing significant obstacles to financial inclusion. These obstacles include limited economic resources, a lack of trust in banks, and difficulties in accessing financial information.
The study, which was published in September 2026, focused on the governorates of Tataouine, Kébili, Médenine, Gabès, Tozeur, Gafsa, and Kairouan. It found that women's limited incomes and financial dependence are major barriers to accessing banking services. Additionally, 32% of women surveyed believe that financial institutions do not provide sufficient information about their services and benefits. This lack of awareness contributes to the low rate of bank account ownership among women in these regions.
The study also revealed that the majority of women in these governorates rely on cash for their transactions, with 98% using cash and only 0.3% having an electronic wallet. This highlights the need for financial institutions to develop services that are adapted to the income and financial habits of these populations. The study also found that the Tunisian Post enjoys the highest level of trust among women, ahead of commercial banks.
The low rate of bank account ownership among women in these regions has significant economic implications. Increasing access to financial services could help to promote economic growth and reduce poverty. However, this will require financial institutions to develop services that are tailored to the needs of these populations, including simple and transparent products, and high-quality customer support.
The study's findings have important implications for microfinance institutions and digital payment providers. These institutions will need to address the obstacles identified in the study, including limited financial awareness and trust in financial institutions. By doing so, they can help to increase access to financial services for women in these regions and promote financial inclusion.
The Financial Inclusion Observatory and UNDP are working to promote financial inclusion in Tunisia, particularly among vulnerable populations such as women. The study's findings will inform the development of policies and programs aimed at increasing access to financial services and promoting economic growth.
The study's results highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to promoting financial inclusion in Tunisia. This will require collaboration between financial institutions, government agencies, and civil society organizations to address the obstacles to financial inclusion and promote economic growth. Key statistics from the study include: 18% of women in the seven governorates have a bank account; 98% of women use cash for transactions; and 0.3% have an electronic wallet.
Key points
- Limited economic resources and lack of trust in banks are major barriers to financial inclusion for women in seven Tunisian governorates.
- The majority of women in these regions rely on cash for transactions, highlighting the need for financial institutions to develop adapted services.
- Increasing access to financial services could help to promote economic growth and reduce poverty in these regions.
