Saving promotion interventions have gained momentum in international development in recent years. Using meta-analysis techniques we investigate whether saving promotion can effectively increase savings, consumption, and future-oriented investments in Sub-Saharan Africa examining 24 randomized controlled trials. Robust-variance estimations of pooled effect sizes show small but significant impacts on poverty related outcomes, including increases in household expenditures and incomes, higher investment and returns from family businesses, and improved food security. Results from meta-regressions suggest that supply-based programs (e.g. providing bank accounts, saving groups) are superior to demand-enhancing program types such as financial education.

Keywords: Savings, Financial Inclusion, Financial Literacy, Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, Sub-Saharan Africa.