Dr. Johnson Asiama (M) with other stakeholders in a group photograph
The Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Johnson Pandit Asiama, has called for a shift in Africa’s financial sector from fragmented innovation toward integrated systems.
Speaking at the launch of the 3i Africa Summit 2026 under the theme “Shaping Africa’s Integrated FinTech Future,” Dr. Asiama said the continent’s next phase of growth depends on stronger collaboration, interoperability, and regulatory coherence.
According to him, although significant progress has been made in expanding digital access and fostering innovation across Africa, the continent must now prioritise connecting these gains across markets.
“For the better part of the last decade, much of the continent’s attention has understandably been placed on expanding access, encouraging innovation, and building digital channels. Those efforts have yielded real progress, but the next frontier is not just more innovation in silos; it is the integration of systems, markets, rules, and opportunities across the continent,” he stated.
Dr. Asiama indicated that isolated advancements limit broader developmental impact and therefore advocated interoperable payment systems, trusted digital infrastructure, and enabling regulatory frameworks that work seamlessly across borders.
“Africa does not need isolated islands of excellence; it needs connected ecosystems. Progress in digital finance is not accidental. It is built through intentional policy, credible institutions, and sustained engagement with market actors,” he said.
He further highlighted the complementary relationship between innovation and regulation, rejecting the notion that the two are at odds.
“Sound regulation creates confidence. Confidence attracts participation. Participation encourages investment. Investment supports scale,” he explained, adding that responsible scaling ultimately expands financial inclusion and strengthens the overall system.
Dr. Asiama also noted that collaboration among institutions remains critical to achieving meaningful outcomes, adding that stronger partnerships between public and private sector actors, combined with a shared commitment to building trust and resilience, will help unlock Africa’s financial potential.
He urged policymakers, regulators, financial institutions, and innovators to actively participate in the summit, describing it as a platform for engagement, visibility, and growth, particularly at a time when rapid technological advancements are reshaping how value is stored, transferred, and regulated.
“This is the spirit in which the 3i Africa Summit 2026 must be understood. It is an opportunity to place Ghana’s priorities, capabilities, and ambitions more firmly at the centre of the global financial conversation. Aligning innovation, investment, and impact will ultimately strengthen Africa’s financial future,” he added.
By Ebenezer K. Amponsah