Bawjiase Community Bank Plc achieved a 24.1 percent increase in profit before tax in 2025. The bank's profit reached GHS 9.35 million, up from GHS 7.53 million in the previous year. This robust performance follows the implementation of innovative strategies launched in late 2024.
These strategies led to significant growth across key metrics. Total assets climbed nearly 25 percent to GHS 161.98 million. Customer deposits surged 31.5 percent to GHS 124.05 million. Loans and advances also grew by 44.0 percent, reaching GHS 48.5 million in 2025 from GHS 33.69 million in 2024. These figures reflect increased support for local businesses and households.
This financial strength comes as Ghana's banking sector navigates both tighter regulations and a push for digital innovation. The Bank of Ghana continues to refine its supervisory framework for financial institutions. Community banks, like Bawjiase, play a crucial role in deepening financial inclusion, especially in rural and peri-urban areas, by providing accessible banking services. This growth indicates a positive trend within the community banking segment, highlighting their resilience and adaptability.
Mr. Michael Kofi Andoh, Chairman of the Board of Directors, stated that the objectives of their transformation program have been substantially realised. He made this statement at the bank's 35th Annual General Meeting (AGM). The bank has also comfortably exceeded the regulatory minimum capital requirement. Its paid-up capital rose by 10.70 percent to GHS 6.29 million, surpassing the GHS 5 million target set for December 2026.
The bank is set to expand its physical footprint with a new branch in Amasaman. This move aims to extend banking services to a fast-growing commercial corridor in the Greater Accra Region. This expansion, combined with an accelerated digital transformation agenda, will likely enhance customer convenience and deepen financial inclusion. Decision-makers and market observers will watch how these strategic initiatives translate into sustained growth and increased market share for the bank.
Mr. Andoh encouraged shareholders to continue investing to support future expansion plans. He also noted that ongoing efficiency measures and technology investments are expected to improve operating performance over time. The bank's strong earnings have earned it approval from the Bank of Ghana to pay a dividend of GHS 2.29 million to shareholders. This includes a cash dividend of GHS 1.64 million, equivalent to GHS 0.047 per share, and bonus shares valued at GHS 654,364.94.
Mr. Stephen Prah, Chief Operating Officer, confirmed the focus on digital transformation. The bank has rolled out SMS alert services and joined the national digital payments ecosystem through GhanaPay. This allows for seamless mobile transfers and wallet transactions. In collaboration with ARB Apex Bank, the bank has also deployed USSD banking services. These services enable customers to access banking without internet, benefiting rural communities. Furthermore, agency banking models have expanded access to deposit and withdrawal services for customers.