Ghana's Automated Teller Machine (ATM) count decreased by 0.5% to 2,272 by the end of December 2025. This reduction from 2,283 ATMs in 2024 was reported by the Bank of Ghana (BoG).
The central bank attributed this decline to some banks decommissioning terminals. This move aims to maintain operational efficiency within their networks. The shift highlights a broader trend in Ghana's financial sector towards more streamlined digital services.
This development fits into Ghana's ongoing economic narrative of digital transformation. The country has seen rapid adoption of electronic payment systems. Mobile money services, in particular, have gained significant traction across various demographics. The BoG's 2025 Payment Systems Oversight Annual Report confirms this trend. It notes that ATMs and Point of Sale (POS) terminals remain crucial alternatives for electronic payments. However, their usage patterns are evolving.
The Bank of Ghana's report indicated a modest increase in ATM and POS density. This largely reflects changing preferences for mobile money services. For every 100,000 adults, there were 10 ATMs and 80 POS devices available in 2025. This compares to 10 ATMs and 71 POS devices in 2024. This data underscores the growing importance of non-ATM digital channels. Dr. Johnson Asiama, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, has previously emphasized the central bank's commitment to inclusive financial agendas. This includes supporting diverse payment solutions.
The decline in ATMs suggests a strategic pivot by financial institutions. They are likely reallocating resources towards more cost-effective digital channels. This trend could lead to further consolidation of physical banking infrastructure. Consumers should expect continued innovation in mobile and online banking services. Decision-makers will monitor these shifts to ensure financial inclusion remains robust. The market will also watch how banks adapt their service delivery models. This includes balancing traditional access points with modern digital solutions. The overall aim is to enhance the efficiency and reach of financial services in Ghana.
Despite the ATM reduction, the number of Point of Sale (POS) terminals deployed increased significantly. POS terminals grew by 16.2% to 18,117 at end-December 2025. This is up from 15,597 at end-December 2024. This surge in POS devices indicates a strong push towards cashless transactions at retail points. It also reflects increased merchant adoption of digital payment solutions. The overall density of payment devices per adult population shows a clear preference for POS over ATMs. This supports the narrative of a country embracing diverse electronic payment methods. The Bank of Ghana continues to oversee these developments. It aims to ensure a secure and efficient payment ecosystem for all Ghanaians. The evolution of these payment channels is a key indicator of Ghana's digital economic progress.