The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has called for stronger collaboration among financial sector stakeholders. This initiative aims to expand Ghana’s digital finance ecosystem and improve access to financial services for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Second Deputy Governor Matilda Asante-Asiedu stated that Ghana already possesses significant infrastructure for financial innovation. She emphasized that better coordination among institutions is the crucial next step. Her remarks were made in Accra on August 17, 2026, during the Distinguished Digital Finance Lecture.
This push for enhanced digital finance aligns with Ghana’s broader economic strategy to foster growth and inclusion. The country has seen rapid adoption of digital payment systems, reflecting a significant shift in financial behavior. This trend is vital for modernizing the economy and supporting a diverse business landscape. The BoG has previously identified a substantial GHS 4.8 billion annual financing gap for SMEs, underscoring the urgency of these efforts.
Mrs. Asante-Asiedu highlighted the impressive scale of digital payments in Ghana. She disclosed that mobile money platforms processed 954 million transactions in June 2026 alone. These transactions were valued at approximately GHS 493 billion. She stated, “Ghana already has real foundations for scaled financial innovation. The task ahead of us is not invention. It is coordination.”
The central bank’s focus will now shift beyond mere account ownership to ensuring practical access to financial tools. This includes credit, insurance, and investment opportunities for individuals and businesses. Decision-makers and markets will closely watch how this call for collaboration translates into concrete policies and increased SME financing. Improved access to finance could significantly boost economic activity and job creation across the country.
The BoG remains committed to developing a financial system that combines innovation with security and inclusion. This approach supports businesses and contributes to Ghana’s overall economic growth. The success of these collaborative efforts will be critical for unlocking the full potential of Ghana's digital economy. It will also determine the resilience and competitiveness of its SME sector in the coming years.