Influence of mobile money services on humanitarian response; a case study of Kismayu, Somalia

Abstract

This study examined the impact of mobile money services on humanitarian response effectiveness in Kismayu, Somalia, focusing on how these services enhance the delivery and management of aid. Specifically, the research examined the consequences of mobile money’s efficiency and speed on aid delivery, the role of security and transparency in strengthening aid effectiveness, the cost effectiveness of mobile money relative to conventional approaches, and the influence of accessibility and inclusivity on diverse community groups’ involvement in aid distribution. Using a descriptive research design, the study targeted humanitarian aid recipients who use mobile money to receive and manage aid. A sample of 385 respondents from five locations that is Farjano, Fanoole, Guulwade, Luglow, and Bulagadud was surveyed. The results indicated that mobile money services greatly improved the timeliness, coverage, and sustainability of humanitarian aid. Key factors such as efficiency and speed played a critical role in enhancing aid delivery, while security and transparency built trust and contributed to the long-term sustainability of interventions. Cost-effectiveness was also pivotal in maximizing the coverage and long-term impact of aid distribution. Additionally, the accessibility and awareness of mobile money services were found to be crucial in ensuring that aid reached the community promptly and effectively. The study was grounded in the Innovation Diffusion Theory, which helped frame the acceptance of mobile money services in humanitarian contexts. Data analysis employed various statistical techniques, with findings presented through graphs, charts, and tables. The results showed moderate perceptions of mobile money services, with mean scores ranging from 2.80 to 3.19. Regression analysis revealed that Efficiency, Security, Cost Effectiveness, and Accessibility significantly influenced Timeliness, Coverage, and Impact (with R² values ranging from 0.1963 to 0.5558). Notably, Accessibility and Security had the strongest effect on sustainability, highlighting the significance of trust and access in humanitarian aid. The study underscores the significance of mobile money in improving humanitarian aid delivery and offers practical recommendations for integrating digital financial services into response strategies, such as investing in digital infrastructure, providing training, and strengthening policies to ensure the long-term success of mobile money-driven interventions.