Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has called for greater Pan-African collaboration to accelerate the development of Africa’s fintech ecosystem.
Speaking at the African FinTech Summit in Accra, Minister George reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to building a digitally inclusive economy that leverages financial technology to empower citizens and drive sustainable economic growth.
He noted that Ghana’s success with mobile money interoperability has provided financial access to over 90% of the country’s adult population, positioning the nation as a regional leader in digital financial services.
Africa as a Fintech Pioneer
Minister George emphasized that Africa is not just following global fintech trends but actively shaping them. He cited the continent’s groundbreaking success with mobile money platforms such as M-Pesa and MoMo as evidence of Africa’s ability to lead global digital innovation.
“Africa is pioneering new fintech models that the rest of the world is learning from,” George said.
He called on African nations to work together through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to harmonize payment systems, promote cross-border transactions, and strengthen financial integration across the continent.
Three Pillars for Africa’s Fintech Future: Inclusion, Trust, and Integration
Outlining his vision for Africa’s fintech landscape, Minister George identified three key priorities that should guide the continent’s digital financial agenda:
- Inclusion: Ensuring that all Africans, regardless of location or income, can access affordable and reliable digital financial services.
- Trust: Building confidence through transparent governance, cybersecurity, and consumer protection.
- Integration: Promoting interoperability and collaboration through shared payment systems and regulatory alignment.
He further encouraged central banks across Africa to adopt the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) as an alternative to the SWIFT network, to enhance intra-African trade and financial independence.
Governments as Enablers of Innovation
Minister George also urged African governments to play a supportive and enabling role in fintech development rather than restricting innovation through excessive regulation.
“Governments must be custodians of progress, not barriers to it,” he said, stressing the need for balanced regulation that safeguards consumers while encouraging innovation and competition.
Ghana as a Model for Inclusive Digital Development
Hon. George commended the Africa FinTech Summit for celebrating African innovation and resilience, noting that the event reflects the continent’s growing reputation as a hub for financial technology.
He invited global investors and technology partners to look to Ghana as a model for inclusive and forward-thinking digital development, emphasizing the country’s vision to make technology a tool for empowerment and economic transformation.
Conclusion
Ghana’s push for continental fintech collaboration signals a new chapter for Africa’s digital economy, one driven by unity, innovation, and shared prosperity. With the support of frameworks like AfCFTA and PAPSS, the continent is well-positioned to lead the next wave of financial inclusion and digital transformation.
