Use of Mobile Financial Services and Mediation among the Burkinabe Diaspora in Méagui (Côte d'Ivoire)

Abstract

The objective of this article is to analyse the social logic behind the use of mediation in the transfer of funds by first-generation Burkinabé transmigrants using mobile financial services. The qualitative methodology was favoured, allowing for individual interviews and a focus group discussion with first and second generation Burkinabe transmigrants living in Méagui (southwestern Côte d'Ivoire). This study reveals that trust, technological competence/confidence and the place of second generation transmigrants in the diaspora community studied, as well as perceptions of e-money institutions, are at the origin of the use of third party mediation when first generation transmigrants transfer funds from mobile financial services. Moreover, the recourse to mediation during the use of the said services for transnational transfers reflects the complexity of the process of socialisation of individuals in the digital age, with in particular a backward transmission of knowledge and know-how in the use of information and communication technologies.