Contracts are assumed to be transparent right from the start, especially in principal-agent relations. The agreement that exists between MTN and their agents seems to have aspects or components that need clarification. Specifically, mobile money agents have asked for more clarity in their cash-in commission computation as they often receive less than what they expect to receive. This is due to the vetting of transactions by MTN to prevent arbitrage. This proposal development seeks to unpack issues relating to the various channels of information flow between MTN and their agents, the various attempts made by MTN to clarify the issues relating to agents' cash-in commissions and why the challenge persists. In the medium- to long-term, the findings of the study will provide insights for a field experiment where interventions will be implemented to improve the clarity of agents' cash-in commission computation and structure. We will also evaluate how improved transparency affects the conduct of agents by evaluating the impact on outcomes such as overcharging of transfer fees, work attendance, and tariff posting, among others.
Category
Year
Institution