THE INFLUENCE OF MOBILE MONEY SERVICES ON FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING PRACTICES IN RWANDA

This study explores the influence of mobile money services on financial accounting practices in Rwanda, focusing on their impact on bookkeeping, financial reporting, and tax compliance. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected from 200 participants, including business owners and financial managers, through surveys and interviews conducted across Kigali, Huye, and Musanze. Key findings reveal significant improvements in bookkeeping accuracy (p < 0.01) and financial reporting reliability (χ² = 45.67, p < 0.001), driven by mobile money's real-time transaction capabilities. Regression analysis identified barriers such as lack of awareness, which negatively impacted adoption rates (β = -0.65, p < 0.05). Recommendations include launching awareness campaigns, reducing transaction costs, and enhancing technical infrastructure. These results underscore mobile money’s potential to streamline financial processes while highlighting areas for policy and capacity-building interventions to maximize its benefits.