Financial Inclusion, Agricultural-Credit Financial Services and Technology-Conflict Constraints: Case of Microfinance Institutions in Enugu

Abstract

Financial inclusion is a key driver of poverty reduction and economic growth, facilitating access to resources for income generation, 
consumption-smoothing, and risk management. MFIs were designed to operate on principles of inclusivity, targeting underserved populations and fostering social and economic development within communities. This study examined financial inclusion, agricultural-credit financial services and technology-conflict constraints-case of; Microfinance institutions in Enugu state, Nigeria. The study reveal that small-holder farm businesses are typically excluded from mainstream banking and services due to distance, limited collateral, financial history amongst others. Some policies and procedures of MFIs; fell short of its demand or consumer expectation sine qua none to; facilitating access to financial services and products tailored to the needs of marginalized populations. The study recommended; government’s provision of;  enabling environment and; increased agricultural credit supply. Also,  more technology financial-inclusion tools incorporated by MFIs and other banking stakeholders in the financial system to bridge the  financial exclusion problem.