Dr. Edward Nartey Botchway
Absa Bank Ghana, in partnership with the Ghana Association of Banks (GAB), has convened a high-level thought leadership forum aimed at exploring strategies to advance Ghana’s digital financial landscape through innovation, regulation, and inclusive growth.
Held under the theme “Digital Finance in Ghana: Balancing Innovation, Inclusion and Regulation,” the forum brought together key voices across the banking, fintech, and regulatory space to deliberate on how financial institutions can evolve to meet the needs of a rapidly digitiing economy while safeguarding stability and access.
Delivering the keynote address, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama reinforced the regulator’s commitment to enabling the next phase of digital financial transformation.
“The next phase of transformation requires a shift from access to value, from connectivity to capability. This is where industry-led strategies become indispensable to deepen engagement, unlock new value, and drive meaningful financial inclusion across every segment of society,” said Dr. Asiama.
Managing Director of Absa Bank Ghana, Dr. Edward Nartey Botchway, echoed the call for collective responsibility and emphasised the importance of industry accountability in the evolving digital space.
“As we advance digital finance in Ghana, the responsibility for safeguarding data and protecting customers cannot rest solely with regulators. Industry players must embrace self-regulation, prioritise consumer education, and commit to working collaboratively to ensure that innovation does not outpace trust,” he said.
Compliance Director at Absa Bank Ghana, Judith Hazel, also shared insights on the bank’s commitment to supporting underserved communities.
“Financial inclusion and innovation are very dear to our hearts, and this event gives us the opportunity to collaborate with not just industry but with our regulators to look at how best we extend financial services to persons who do not have access,” she said.
A presentation delivered by Dr. Kwame Oppong, Director of FinTech and Innovation at the Bank of Ghana, addressed the impact of emerging financial technologies, digital assets, and cryptocurrencies on banks and regulators.
It explored the challenges and opportunities that digitalisation presents for the broader financial ecosystem and highlighted the need for adaptive, risk-sensitive regulatory frameworks.
A Business Desk Report