Opportunity International Savings and Loans Ltd hosted the Africa Chapter Meeting of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values in Accra, drawing key financial leaders to discuss sustainable banking. The two day event at Labadi Beach Hotel on September 18 and 19 focused on building inclusive finance across the continent.
Event Highlights and Key Attendees
Leaders from banks and financial groups gathered to share ideas on values based banking. This meeting aimed to push for finance that supports economic growth, social good, and environmental care.
The Global Alliance for Banking on Values brings together banks worldwide that focus on positive impact. Its Africa Chapter includes seven institutions from five countries, with Opportunity International Savings and Loans as Ghanas sole member.
Notable guests included Ismail Adam from the Bank of Ghana, who stood in for the governor. Alberta Quarcoopome chaired the event as board head of Opportunity International Savings and Loans. Martin Rohner, the alliances executive director, joined from abroad.
Fabian Kassi, managing director of Centenary Bank in Uganda and chair of the Africa Chapter, spoke on regional goals. Kwame Owusu Boateng, chief executive of Opportunity International Savings and Loans, welcomed everyone. Board members and reps from groups like the Ghana Association of Savings and Loans Companies and Development Bank Ghana also attended.
The meeting spotlighted recent trends in sustainable finance. Discussions covered how banks can help underserved communities, much like Opportunity Bank Ugandas work with refugees.
Focus on Financial Inclusion and Growth
Speakers stressed the need for banks to drive real change. Ismail Adam called for strategies that put communities first and aim for lasting results.
He pointed out that financial groups must boost literacy programs and use tech to reach more people. Partnerships, he said, are key to national progress.
Adam urged banks to move beyond quick profits. Instead, they should invest in ways that build stronger economies and improve lives.
This aligns with global shifts toward ethical banking. In Africa, such efforts help tackle poverty and support small businesses.
Recent data shows Africas banking sector grew by 5 percent in 2024, per reports from the African Development Bank. Yet, inclusion remains a challenge, with over 40 percent of adults unbanked.
The meeting explored ways to close this gap through values driven models.
Sustainable Banking Strategies Discussed
Participants shared practical steps for inclusive finance. Topics included environmental, social, and governance reforms, vital for long term success.
One session looked at how banks can fund green projects and support women led businesses. This ties into broader goals like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Here are some key strategies highlighted:
- Invest in digital tools to expand access in rural areas.
- Build partnerships with microfinance networks for better outreach.
- Focus on education to empower clients with financial knowledge.
These ideas aim to make banking more equitable. For instance, Opportunity International Savings and Loans has run workshops for youth startups, helping them grow.
The alliance pushes for banks to measure impact beyond profits. This includes tracking social returns, like job creation in communities.
Impact on Ghanas Financial Landscape
Hosting this event boosts Ghanas role in African finance. Opportunity International Savings and Loans, marking its 20th year, shows strong growth in the sector.
The company operates in 10 regions, offering loans to small and medium enterprises. Events like this strengthen ties with global partners.
Ghana’s central bank supports such initiatives. Recent policies aim to increase digital payments, with mobile money users hitting 60 million in 2024.
This meeting could lead to new collaborations. For example, similar gatherings have sparked refugee financing programs in Uganda.
| Key Outcomes from the Meeting | Description |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Collaboration | Agreements to share best practices among African banks. |
| Financial Literacy Push | Plans for joint programs to educate underserved groups. |
| Tech Integration | Commitments to adopt fintech for broader inclusion. |
| Sustainability Focus | Strategies to align with global ESG standards. |
These outcomes promise real benefits for Ghana and beyond.
Broader Implications for Africa
The discussions reflect a growing trend in African banking. With economies expanding, values based finance can drive balanced development.
Experts note that sustainable banking could add billions to GDPs. A 2025 report from the World Bank predicts 7 percent growth in sub Saharan Africa if inclusion improves.
Events like this build momentum. They connect local efforts to global networks, fostering innovation.
In Uganda, similar models have helped over 100,000 refugees access loans. Ghana could see comparable gains in agriculture and small business.
The meeting ended with calls for action. Leaders pledged to advance these ideas in their countries.
Share your thoughts on how sustainable banking can change Africa. Comment below or spread the word to keep the conversation going.
