Central Bank: 79% of citizens aged 15 and above hold active accounts
Cairo – Nahed Imam: Financial inclusion rates in Egypt continued their upward trajectory, reaching 79% by the end of June 2026. This means that 56.4 million citizens out of a total of 71.4 million in the age group of 15 years and older hold active accounts enabling them to conduct financial transactions, supported by the ongoing efforts of the Central Bank of Egypt and the financial sector to enhance financial inclusion and expand the base of beneficiaries of financial services across all segments of society.
These active financial accounts vary to include, in addition to bank accounts, postal accounts, mobile money wallets, and prepaid cards. In this context, the financial inclusion rate for women witnessed a tangible surge, rising from 19.1% in 2016 to 72.5% by the end of June 2026, representing a growth rate of 327% over that period. Similarly, financial inclusion rates among youth in the 15–35 age group increased from 36.3% in 2020 to 58% in June 2026, marking an 85% growth rate during the same period. This progress was supported by the launch of specialized programs and projects aimed at enhancing the economic empowerment of women and youth, and increasing the participation of the most vulnerable groups in the formal financial system.
A report by the Central Bank noted that these results reflect the success of the Financial Inclusion Strategy (2022–2025) in achieving its objectives and promoting sustainable economic growth for all segments of society. This strategy was formulated and implemented in collaboration and coordination with all relevant ministries and authorities. Key indicators issued from the Central Bank’s financial inclusion database revealed an increase in the rates of ownership and use of financial services, achieving a growth rate of 229% between 2016 and June 2026.
These results come within the framework of cooperation and coordination with relevant ministries and authorities in implementing numerous projects and initiatives, headed by the Presidential Initiative “Hayat Karima” (A Decent Life), the Small Farmers Support Program, as well as targeting women and youth in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the National Council for Women. Continuing the scientific approach adopted by the Central Bank in realizing its vision and objectives, the Second National Financial Inclusion Strategy (2026–2030) is currently being prepared in cooperation with relevant ministries and authorities. This new strategy embraces a comprehensive concept that extends beyond merely providing financial services, to enhancing effective, safe, and sustainable usage, thereby contributing to supporting businesses and entrepreneurs, and integrating the informal economy into the formal economy.
The strategy’s preparation is based on an integrated methodology for measuring financial inclusion on both the supply and demand sides, thereby strengthening the fundamental dimensions of financial inclusion: accessibility, usage, and quality of financial services. It also relies on the results of the Financial Services Survey, which was prepared with technical support from the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation, and implemented in collaboration with the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics in the first quarter of 2026. The survey aimed to identify existing gaps, challenges related to the effective use of financial services, and to formulate evidence-based policies.
The strategy aims to expand the use of financial services and products by enhancing digital solutions and innovation, supporting the transition to a green economy through sustainable financing instruments, and raising financial awareness among citizens through education and awareness programs. It also seeks to strengthen trust in the financial sector by protecting customer rights, supporting the growth and sustainability of small and medium-sized enterprises and entrepreneurs, enhancing public-private partnerships, and continuing to develop financial and technological infrastructure.
