Bank of Ghana Governor emphasises durability, policy outlook at meeting with bank executives

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, has called for stronger institutional resilience within Ghana’s banking sector, stressing that the focus must now shift from stability to durability.

Delivering opening remarks on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, at the bi-monthly meeting of heads of banks, Dr. Asiama stated that while stability has been restored, long-term sustainability requires structural strengthening. He underscored the need for stronger business models, broader ownership structures, deeper financial intermediation, disciplined innovation, and sound governance practices.

“Stability has been restored. The task now is durability,” the Governor said, adding that durability would depend on both strategic reforms and responsible risk management within financial institutions. He reaffirmed the central bank’s commitment to maintaining a regulatory posture that is firm, fair, and forward-looking, noting that the Bank of Ghana would remain supportive where necessary but clear in its expectations.

Addressing recent monetary policy developments, Dr. Asiama explained the rationale behind the decision taken by the Monetary Policy Committee at its 128th meeting in January 2026. According to the Governor, the meeting occurred against the backdrop of improving global and domestic economic conditions.

“With inflation declining faster than anticipated and expectations well anchored, the Committee judged that monetary conditions remained sufficiently tight relative to prevailing inflation dynamics,” he said. “Consequently, the MPC, by a majority decision, reduced the Monetary Policy Rate by 250 basis points to 15.50 percent.”

Dr. Asiama further highlighted regulatory and supervisory initiatives undertaken by the central bank in the previous year. These included thematic reviews of banks’ business models, assessments of funding structures, and evaluations of governance effectiveness, aimed at reinforcing financial stability and operational soundness across the sector.

The Governor also addressed emerging priorities and risks facing the banking industry. Cybersecurity featured prominently among the issues discussed, reflecting growing concerns about digital threats and the need for enhanced technological safeguards. In addition, Dr. Asiama encouraged banks to explore capital-raising opportunities through listings on the Ghana Stock Exchange, pointing to the role of market-based financing in strengthening balance sheets and promoting broader ownership.

The meeting formed part of the Bank of Ghana’s ongoing engagement with industry leaders as the financial sector navigates evolving economic conditions, regulatory expectations, and technological transformation.