The Governor of
the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama has opened the 3i Africa Policy Forum
with a compelling call for continental financial integration under the theme
"One Africa, One Market." The high-level gathering in Accra brings
together policymakers, regulators, and financial technology leaders to
translate vision into actionable strategies for Africa's digital economic
transformation.
The governor in
his address emphasized that Africa's future depends on creating a seamless,
innovation-driven economic bloc. "This is not mere aspiration but a
strategic imperative," he stated, highlighting progress in fintech
adoption, cross-border digital payments, and regulatory innovation across the
continent. The Governor noted these advancements are creating opportunities for
financial inclusion and intra-African trade alignment with the African
Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Key priorities
outlined for the forum include harmonizing regulatory frameworks, scaling
digital payment solutions, and mobilizing investment for fintech growth. Dr.
Asiama particularly stressed the need for interoperability across African
financial systems and the responsible integration of digital assets.
The Bank of
Ghana announced significant collaborations, including ongoing work with the
Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) and a new partnership with
Rwanda's National Bank and Singapore's Global Financial Technology Network.
This Next-Gen Digital Payment Infrastructure Project aims to modernize
cross-border payments through central bank-led innovation.
"By 2030,
we must build a connected African financial ecosystem," Dr. Asiama challenged participants, urging pragmatic solutions that
bridge policy and implementation. The forum serves as a critical platform to
align continental efforts in creating what the Governor described as
"Africa's digital financial powerhouse."
The outcomes of
these discussions are expected to shape concrete action plans for accelerating
Africa's digital finance integration, with Ghana positioned as a key driver of
this transformative agenda.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
