The impact of digital finance, particularly mobile money, on financial inclusion and income among rural residents in the Kembata Tambaro zone

<p dir="ltr">This study examines how digital finance, particularly mobile money, affects financial inclusion and income among rural households in Kembata Tambaro zone, Ethiopia. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews with a representative sample of 399 respondents selected through a three-stage random sampling strategy. Quantitative data were analysed using a double hurdle model (binary logistic regression and zero-inflated negative binomial regression) for adoption and intensity, a sequential logit model for financial inclusion, and propensity score matching (PSM) for income effects. Qualitative data were thematically analysed to provide contextual depth. The findings highlight digital finance as a key tool for improving rural livelihoods and reducing financial exclusion.</p>