The 16% Gender Gap: Designing Safe and Accessible Banking for Women

Financial inclusion in Ethiopia is not just an economic challenge; it is a social one. Data reveals a persistent 16-percentage-point gender gap in account ownership, with only 39% of women owning an account compared to 55% of men. To close this gap, banking must become safer, faster, and more accessible for women, who often suffer from "time poverty" due to household and economic responsibilities.

Long, chaotic queues are a significant deterrent for women and vulnerable groups. A disorganized lobby is not just an inconvenience; it can be a safety concern and a massive drain on time. Bank-Genie’s system allows banks to configure "priority routing" for specific demographics or vulnerable customers.

By implementing organized, transparent queuing, banks like Bank of Abyssinia create a respectful environment where women can transact quickly and safely. Reducing the "time tax" of standing in line is a direct contribution to the National Financial Inclusion Strategy. It turns the bank branch from a place of frustration into a welcoming community hub, encouraging more women to enter the formal financial system.