Desmond Bredu, Head of Client Coverage at Stanbic Investment Management Services (SIMS), has urged rural and community banks, fintech firms, and mobile money operators to partner. This call aims to deepen financial inclusion and improve livelihoods across Ghana. He made these remarks at The Money Summit in Accra on June 2, 2026.
Mr. Bredu stated that financial inclusion must move beyond simple access to services. It should focus on delivering practical solutions that improve everyday lives. He highlighted partnerships within the financial ecosystem as crucial for expanding investment opportunities and banking access. This is especially true for underserved communities.
This initiative aligns with Ghana's broader economic goal to leverage digital innovation for inclusive growth. The Bank of Ghana actively promotes financial digitisation to reach segments of the population excluded from traditional banking. Data from the Bank of Ghana has shown a consistent increase in mobile money transactions over the past five years. This trend underscores the potential for digital platforms to drive financial services.
“As someone working in the asset management industry, I see firsthand how these partnerships are making transactions easier for ordinary people,” Mr. Bredu said. He explained that collaborations with Apex Bank now allow customers to make deposits and withdrawals more conveniently. Their investments are also seamlessly credited regardless of location. The Apex Bank 2024 financial report noted significant growth in deposits and reduced maintenance costs. This was partly due to increased mobile money transactions and digital banking adoption.
This push for collaboration suggests a future where financial services are more integrated and accessible. Decision-makers and markets will watch to see if these partnerships lead to concrete improvements in financial access. Increased integration could further boost mobile money usage, which saw over GHS 1.3 trillion in transactions in 2023. These developments could also attract more investment into Ghana’s growing fintech sector. Rural banks, often limited by physical infrastructure, can extend their reach through these digital alliances.
Mr. Bredu specifically encouraged rural and community banks to explore partnerships with fintech companies. These partnerships could embed services like savings, insurance, and investments into widely used digital platforms. He argued against viewing fintechs and traditional banks as competitors. Instead, he sees collaboration as vital for the future of financial inclusion. Customers prioritise convenience and solutions that meet their financial needs. They are less concerned about which institution provides the service. Strengthening these partnerships can accelerate inclusion, support economic participation, and improve financial outcomes nationwide.