Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide: A Data-Driven Analysis of Internet Inclusive Finance in the E-Commerce Era

Abstract

Background Information: Mobile internet access has grown rapidly in Africa, but rural areas still
face challenges in financial inclusion and e-commerce participation. Bridging this divide is crucial
for fostering socioeconomic development.
Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the impact of internet-inclusive finance on economic
development in rural regions, focusing on e-commerce.
Methods: Data-driven analysis using statistical regression, econometric modeling, and machine
learning to assess the effect of mobile internet access and financial inclusion on rural economic
outcomes.
Results: The analysis shows significant positive impacts of internet-inclusive finance on income
levels in percentage %, entrepreneurship, and business growth in rural areas compared to urban
areas.
Conclusion: Improving internet access and financial inclusion in rural areas can bridge the urbanrural
divide, enhancing economic opportunities and aligning with global development goals.