Journal
Metropolitan Journal of Academic Multidisciplinary Research
MJAMR
Influence of Financial Literacy on Loan Repayment Performance: A Case of Financial Literacy and Loan Performance of Microfinance Borrowers in Wakiso District
Asiimwe Isaac Kazaara
| Journal | Metropolitan Journal of Academic Multidisciplinary Research (MJAMR) |
| Volume / Issue | Vol. 5, No. 3 |
| Published | 31 March 2026 |
| ISSN | 3006-4384 |
Abstract
Financial literacy represents a critical determinant of responsible borrowing behavior and loan repayment performance among microfinance clients. This study examined the influence of financial literacy on loan repayment performance among microfinance borrowers in Wakiso District, Uganda. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design using mixed methods approaches. A sample of 186 respondents comprising microfinance borrowers, loan officers, and institutional managers was selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, financial literacy tests, and key informant interviews. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, logistic regression, and chi-square tests using SPSS version 26. The study revealed a strong positive relationship (r = 0.768, p < 0.01) between financial literacy and loan repayment performance. Budgeting skills showed the strongest correlation with timely repayment (r = 0.812, p < 0.01). Financial planning knowledge correlated significantly with loan default prevention (χ² = 28.643, p < 0.01). Borrowers with high financial literacy demonstrated 73.8% on-time repayment rates compared to 34.6% among low literacy borrowers. Record-keeping practices reduced default risk by 64.3%. The regression model explained 67.9% of variance in repayment performance (R² = 0.679). Financially literate borrowers exhibited 2.89 times higher odds of successful loan repayment (OR = 2.89, 95% CI: 1.87-4.46). Financial literacy significantly influenced loan repayment performance among Wakiso District microfinance borrowers. Superior budgeting skills, financial planning knowledge, record-keeping practices, and savings discipline directly enhanced repayment capacity and commitment. However, pervasive financial literacy gaps, limited borrower training, and inadequate institutional support constrained optimal repayment outcomes. Microfinance institutions should implement comprehensive financial literacy training programs as mandatory components of loan disbursement processes. The Uganda Microfinance Regulatory Authority should establish minimum financial education standards for all licensed institutions. Community-based financial literacy campaigns leveraging local leaders and successful borrowers should promote responsible borrowing practices. Borrowers should prioritize financial education acquisition as essential for maximizing credit benefits and avoiding debt distress.
Keywords
Financial literacy
loan repayment
microfinance
borrower performance
Wakiso District
credit management
Uganda
Cite This Article
Asiimwe Isaac Kazaara (2026). Influence of Financial Literacy on Loan Repayment Performance: A Case of Financial Literacy and Loan Performance of Microfinance Borrowers in Wakiso District. Metropolitan Journal of Academic Multidisciplinary Research, 5(3). https://journals.miu.ac.ug/pages/article.php?article_id=296
More in This Issue
View full issue →
36
Relationship between School Location and Student Academic Performance of Secondary Schools in Makindye Division
School location
academic performance
secondary schools
Makindye Division
37
Relationship between School Size and Student Academic Performance of Secondary Schools in Makindye Division
School size
enrolment size
academic performance
secondary schools
38
Relationship Between Staff Discipline and Pupils’ Academic Performance at Primary Leaving Examination Level in Selected Primary Schools of Nyakinama Sub-County, Kisoro District, Uganda
Staff Discipline
Academic Performance
PLE
Primary Schools
39
Relationship Between Teachers’ Professional Responsibility, Teacher–Learner Relationships, and School Performance in Primary Schools of Nyakinama Sub-County, Kisoro District, Uganda
Professional Responsibility
Teacher–Learner Relationship
School Performance
Primary Schools
40
Relationship between Urban Livelihood Adaptation Within The PDM Framework And Local Economic Development Outcomes In Kampala District.
Urban livelihood adaptation
Parish Development Model
enterprise innovation
market adaptation