Analyse des déterminants du taux d’utilisation des services financiers au Burundi : 2000-2022

Abstract

This study aiming to analyze the factors influencing the rate of use of financial services in Burundi (2000-2022) reveals major insights. Regarding short-term results, the study shows that in the short term, the overall rate of geographic penetration of financial services has a positive and significant influence, while competitive interest rates (loans and deposits) positively stimulate the rate of use of financial services in Burundi, without a significant effect. On the other hand, demographic coverage and income level (GDP per capita) do not have a significant impact, highlighting a challenge in aligning financial supply with the needs of vulnerable populations. In contrast, in the long term, the geographic expansion of financial services and attractive interest rates on deposits, they significantly stimulate the rate of use of financial services, while interest rates applied to credit hinder it. GDP per capita and demographic penetration have a positive impact, but they depend on the suitability of products to the needs of the population. Unlike the short term, where credit rates seemed beneficial (borrower selection), their effect becomes negative in the long term. Effective use of financial services therefore requires extensive infrastructure, balanced pricing policies, and services adapted to local realities. The results of this study highlight the need for an integrated approach to promote the use of financial services in Burundi. To achieve lasting effects, several complementary actions must be carried out simultaneously. First, special attention must be given to the development of financial infrastructure in rural areas, where access to banking services remains limited. This geographical expansion should be accompanied by balanced regulation of interest rates, aiming both to encourage savings through attractive returns and to ease credit access conditions for households and small businesses. Second, the provision of financial services must be adapted to local specificities and the real needs of different segments of the population.