Hot!
Collaborate, exploit unique opportunities for growth – Dr Bawumia to Govts, Fintechs, Financial Institutions
The Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has challenged African leaders, Fintechs particularly those in Africa, and financial institutions to take advantage of the many unique opportunities on the continent to collaborate, innovate and explore opportunities to positively impact the lives of the continent’s people.
Speaking on the topic “Digitising Economies In Africa: A Future Imperative” at the ongoing 3i Africa Summit in Accra on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 Dr Bawumia said Africa’s youthful and rapidly increasing population, growing internet penetration and smart phone usage amidst falling internet costs, as well as significant growth in its financial services market presents a unique set of variables to complement the growing influence of fintechs in everyday life, especially in ensuring financial inclusion.”
He said, “As fintech reaches a new level of maturity, African financial services are poised at a pivotal inflection point. With the momentum gained in recent years, several African nations stand on the brink of unlocking unprecedented opportunities, positioning themselves at the forefront of the next wave of fintech innovation and growth.”
“In this rapidly evolving landscape, agile fintech players are strategically positioning themselves to capture a slice of this flourishing market. As the fastest-growing startup industry in Africa, the success of fintech companies can be attributed to a confluence of favourable trends,” he added.
“These trends signify the immense market potential and further establish the transformative impact that fintech can have on financial inclusion and economic growth in Africa. As fintech continues to thrive amidst these favourable conditions, it is evident that the sector is well-positioned to reshape the future of finance in Africa, driving both innovation and inclusive growth,” he noted.
This growth would not come on a silver platter though, Dr Bawumia warned. To further attract and secure such substantial investment, fintech startups in Africa must adopt a multifaceted approach that emphasises innovation, showcases the expansive market potential, and prioritises regulatory compliance and transparency, he advised.
Dr. Bawumia further said startups should continuously strive to develop groundbreaking solutions that address unique challenges faced by African consumers and businesses. They should articulate a clear vision of how their solutions cater to the needs of our growing market, backed by data-driven insights and market research.
“Crucially, building trust is paramount for attracting long-term investment. Compliance with regulatory requirements and maintaining transparency in operations are non-negotiables. Startups should proactively engage with regulatory authorities, participate in regulatory sandboxes where available, and establish robust governance and compliance frameworks. By doing so, they can instill confidence among investors and foster a conducive investment environment for sustainable growth,” he said.
Citing a UN report which projects that Africa will account for 25 percent of the world’s population by 2050, Dr Bawumia pointed out that this demographic landscape does not merely signify a vast theoretical market but also emphasise an expanding addressable technology market.
“Key trajectories such as digital payments, financial literacy initiatives, and AI-driven solutions are expected to shape the FinTech landscape in Africa. By focusing on these areas and investing in research and development, we can unlock new opportunities and drive sustainable growth,” he said.
The Future
“Ultimately, we stand at a pivotal juncture in the evolution of the FinTech and tech sectors in Africa, where the choices we make today will profoundly influence our trajectory for years, if not decades, to come. It is imperative that we embrace responsible innovation, creating a balance between pushing technological boundaries and ensuring ethical considerations and regulatory compliance,” the Vice President said.
Fostering collaboration across various stakeholders, be it governments, financial institutions, tech startups, or investors, is crucial for creating synergies and driving collective growth, Dr Bawumia emphasised.
According to him, “Equally important is our investment in nurturing talent and advancing technology. It is imperative we prioritise education, training and development, invest in cutting-edge technologies and infrastructure to empower our workforce lead and adapt to the rapid pace of change. In doing so, we can build a resilient and inclusive FinTech ecosystem that not only drives economic growth but also fosters financial inclusion and improves the lives of people across the globe.”
Hot!
Health Minister leads delegation Mimi Darko’s appointment as AMA Director General
Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister for Health and Member of Parliament has led a delegation to secure the appointment of Dr Delese Mimi Darko, Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority, as the Director General of the African Medicines Agency (AMA) during the ongoing 2nd Ordinary Session of the Conference of State Parties in Kigali, Rwanda.
This prestigious appointment, achieved through a competitive process, marks a proud and historic moment for Ghana and the entire continent.
It highlights Dr. Darko’s exceptional leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to enhancing public health and regulatory systems across Africa.
The Minister expressed his deep appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for his strong support and leadership throughout this process.
Mr.Akandoh congratulated Dr. Mimi Darko and Team Ghana for their incredibly successful campaign.
The AMA was established by the African Union on November 5, 2021, with the primary objective of improving access to quality, safe, and effective medical products throughout the continent. Its creation aims to facilitate the regulation and oversight of essential medicines at a continental level while promoting collaboration among African countries and regions.
The Agency’s mission is to provide leadership in creating an enabling regulatory environment for the pharmaceutical sector in Africa, ensuring that the African population has access to essential medical products and technologies.
Hot!
Police arrest five suspects involved in robbery cases in Ashanti Region
The Police Intelligence Directorate (PID) in the Ashanti Region has informed the public about a recent breakthrough in the fight against armed robbery in the Denchemuoso District.
Following a series of robbery incidents in the area, on April 22, 2025, PID/Ashanti operatives, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended one Michael Owusu Ansah, alias Baby Last, aged 32.
The suspect had been on the police wanted list since 2016 in connection with a robbery and the murder of Police Officer G/Cpl Frank Essel of SWAT/Ashanti, which occurred at the Open Space Hotel in Denchemuoso on May 19, 2016.
During interrogation, the suspect confessed to engaging in multiple street and residential robberies in Denchemuoso, Atwima-Techiman, Asuoyeboah, and surrounding areas.
He also disclosed that his gang operated with knives, pistols, and pump-action guns.
Further investigations led to the identification and arrest of his accomplices, namely:Emmanuel Owusu, alias Cassidy, Maxwell Gyimah, alias Nana Kwame, Sudais Oxford Ntiamoah, alias The Man Sudais and Rhano Okyere, alias Demon
These individuals were arrested from their hideouts within Atwima-Techiman and Denchemuoso.
However, one suspect, remains at large and efforts are underway to apprehend him and recover the weapons used in the robberies.
All five arrested suspects were arraigned before the Atasomanso Circuit Court on May 13, 2025.
They were remanded into police custody and are scheduled to reappear on June 4, 2025.
