Dr. Asiama Calls for Structural Strengthening and Disciplined Lending in Ghana’s Banks
The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, has outlined a new phase for Ghana’s banking sector, urging institutions to move beyond recovery and focus on structural strengthening to support long-term economic growth.
Speaking at the Post-MPC Engagement with the Heads of Banks, Dr. Asiama stated that with improved macroeconomic stability,the sector must now not only prioritise structural reforms and stronger institutional foundations but also prioritise durability through stronger business models, broader ownership and disciplined innovation.
“Colleagues, with macroeconomic stability improving and regulatory reliefs now behind us, the conversation must shift from resilience to structure. Stability has been restored. The task ahead is to strengthen the underlying architecture of the banking sector. The task now is durability. Durability requires stronger business models, broader ownership, deeper intermediation, disciplined innovation, and sound governance. The Bank of Ghana will continue to engage as a firm, fair, and forward-looking partner, supportive where necessary, but clear in its expectations.” He stated
He also added that although non-performing loans are on the decline recently, they remain above benchmark levels, making disciplined lending critical as credit growth resumes. The Governor stressed that renewed lending must support productive sectors without undermining asset quality.
“Similarly, while non-performing loans have declined, they remain above benchmark levels. As credit expansion resumes, underwriting discipline and sectoral risk assessment will be critical. Stability must now translate into purposeful intermediation, supporting agriculture, manufacturing, SMEs, and value-adding sectors, without reintroducing asset quality pressures.”
Dr. Asiama also highlighted progress on financial sector reforms, noting that Ghana has enacted legislation to regulate digital asset activities. He said the focus has now shifted to implementing the framework and preparing institutions for the evolving digital finance landscape.
“In addition, the Virtual Asset Service Providers Act has now been enacted, establishing a formal regulatory perimeter for digital asset activities in Ghana. The next phase is operationalisation. We are working on the regulatory frameworks, supervisory processes, and coordination mechanisms necessary to bring the Act fully into effect in a structured and orderly manner.”
He then concluded that regulators and financial institutions share responsibility for strengthening the sector’s long-term foundations and ensuring it supports national development.
About The Author
