The Head of Fintech and Innovation at the Bank of Ghana, Owureku Asare, says the 2026 edition of the 3i Africa Summit will focus heavily on solving Africa’s cross-border payment challenges, advancing digital finance, and attracting investment to Ghana and the wider continent.
Speaking on GHOne TV’s GHToday on Wednesday ahead of the summit scheduled for May 6 to 8 at Destiny Arena in Accra, Mr. Asare said the event is intentionally designed to drive an integrated fintech future for Africa.
“We are looking at integrated FinTech future for Africa, where that seamless flow of value cross-border happens,” he said.
According to him, one of the summit’s major priorities is addressing the difficulty of moving funds across African borders despite the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
“It’s very easy to move funds to Europe or the US than to do it next door,” he noted, adding that such barriers continue to hinder trade on the continent.
Mr. Asare explained that the summit will also explore how digital currencies can help reduce transaction costs, improve speed, and support liquidity for trade across African markets.
“What we are trying to highlight this year is to make sure that we have a cross-border proposition,” he stated.
READ: 3i Africa Summit will connect innovators to top decision-makers – Owureku Asare
He further revealed that virtual assets and cryptocurrency regulation will feature prominently, particularly following progress on Ghana’s Virtual Assets Service Providers Act.
“Virtual asset is going to really be topical,” he said, emphasizing the Bank of Ghana’s efforts to regulate and engage the sector proactively.
Other key topics expected at the summit include financial health, digital credit systems, and the role of fintech in supporting Africa’s creative industries.
Mr. Asare also highlighted practical benefits for Ghana, including investment matchmaking, fintech exhibitions, and increased exposure for local innovators.
“We are trying to do matchmaking… bringing investment into Ghana,” he said, referencing outcomes from the 2024 summit that reportedly led to investment opportunities.
The summit will also feature exhibition spaces for Ghanaian fintech companies, an African market showcasing Ghanaian products, and multiple networking opportunities for participants.
Organisers say the event is expected to serve not only as a platform for policy and innovation discussions but also as a catalyst for economic growth, trade facilitation, and stronger financial integration across Africa.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
