ARB Apex Bank MD Backs BoG Reforms as African Nations Seek IMF Support Amid Global Volatility

Curtis William Brantuo, the Acting Managing Director of ARB Apex Bank, has highlighted the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) ongoing reforms in the community banking sector as a vital step toward building well-capitalised institutions and ensuring depositor security. Speaking at the 36th Annual General Meeting of the Asutifi Community Bank, Brantuo emphasized that these regulatory measures are designed to strengthen the financial backbone of rural communities. The reforms come at a critical time when financial institutions must demonstrate resilience against both domestic and international economic pressures, requiring a shift toward higher capital standards and better governance. The effectiveness of these reforms is already being reflected in the performance of local institutions; Asutifi Community Bank, for instance, recorded a significant financial turnaround, reporting a profit of over GH¢3.59 million in 2025—a sharp reversal from the GH¢2.05 million loss recorded in 2024. To sustain this momentum, Brantuo underscored the necessity of capital adequacy, aggressive deposit mobilization, and strict cost discipline. He noted that transparency and robust governance are the primary tools for boosting investor confidence and meeting the stringent regulatory standards set by the central bank to ensure long-term sustainability. While Ghana focuses on internal banking reforms, the broader African continent is grappling with external shocks that have necessitated increased intervention from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The IMF recently announced enhanced financial support for several African nations, including Ethiopia, The Gambia, and Burkina Faso, while engaging in talks with Malawi. These measures are a response to the economic fallout from geopolitical conflicts, specifically the impact of the US-Israel war on global energy prices and food security. These external pressures have created a volatile environment for many African economies, particularly those dependent on energy imports. IMF spokesperson Julie Kozack highlighted that these disruptions are significantly impacting inflation and macroeconomic stability across the continent. Ethiopia is slated to receive a $200 million tranche, while Burkina Faso is set for an additional $51 million to navigate these challenges. This contrast between local banking successes in Ghana and the need for international bailouts elsewhere highlights the importance of proactive domestic reforms. As the Bank of Ghana continues its oversight, the goal remains to create a self-sustaining financial ecosystem that can withstand the volatile fluctuations of the global market and protect the interests of local depositors.