Women’s Financial Inequality and Economic Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract: Abstract: The main purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between inequality and growth through the lens of women’s financial inclusion in Sub-Sharan Africa for the period 2004-2020. Using a log-log fixed effects model on Panel data, the relationship between women’s financial inclusion, measured by female borrowers per 1000, and economic growth was examined. The results show that both women’s financial inclusion and economic growth have a positive and statistically significant effect on each other. However, focusing on empowering and including women in the financial, business, and the legal world is crucial in Sub-Sharan Africa. It improves economic resilience, which is key to long-term economic growth. The results continue to support the notion that there are country and community specificities that should be accounted for to strategically implement a growth and development policy.