‘EBID’s future will be defined by our actions’ – Ato Forson

Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister of Finance and Chairman of the Board of Governors of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), urged Governors to act decisively, stressing the Bank’s future will be determined by their commitments and collective decisions in Accra.

Delivering the welcome address at the 24th Ordinary Session of the Board in Accra, Dr. Forson extended warm hospitality on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, the Government, and the people of Ghana. He expressed gratitude for the trust placed in Ghana to serve as Chair of the Board over the past year. “It has been an honour to work alongside such dedicated colleagues in advancing the cause of our Community through this strategic institution,” he said.

Dr. Forson also acknowledged the leadership of EBID President Dr. George Agyekum Donkor and his team, describing their support as steadfast and committed. He noted that the discussions at the session are essential for guiding the Bank’s direction and ensuring it continues to serve the interests of all Member States.

Highlighting the responsibility of the Governors, he urged them to approach their deliberations with purpose and unity. “The future of EBID will be defined by what we commit to, and actually do, after we leave Accra. This must be our moment of resolve,” Dr. Forson said, emphasising that their decisions will directly influence the Bank’s growth and regional impact.

He also called attention to the importance of fulfilling financial obligations to the Bank. While some Member States have fully paid their subscriptions, outstanding arrears remain, and timely payments are critical to sustain EBID’s leverage and support transformative projects. Dr. Forson stressed that expanding the Bank’s capital base is essential for financing regional development initiatives and fostering inclusive economic growth.

“The expectations of our Citizens are high. They look to us for results. Let us rise to that responsibility. Let us be bold in our thinking, decisive in our actions, and united in our purpose. Because the future we seek will only be built by deliberate and collective action,” he added.

Dr. Forson concluded by encouraging participants to take time to appreciate Ghana’s culture and heritage during their stay, reinforcing the importance of both professional engagement and regional solidarity.