Ghana’s Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, has called on ECOWAS member states to honor their capital subscription obligations to the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), stressing that timely payments are critical to sustaining the Bank’s growth and impact.
Speaking as Chairman of the Board of Governors at the 24th Ordinary Session of EBID in Accra, Forson welcomed delegates on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama and expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in Ghana to chair the Board over the past year. He praised the dedication of colleagues and the leadership of EBID President Dr. George Agyekum Donkor, noting the Bank’s resilience amid global economic headwinds.
Forson highlighted the challenges of 2025, describing a “Great Wedge” in global growth driven by artificial intelligence investment in some regions, alongside trade volatility and geopolitical tensions elsewhere. Despite these pressures, EBID recorded strong financial and operational results: its balance sheet expanded from US$1.97 billion in 2024 to US$2.39 billion in 2025, while profitability rose 13.3 percent to US$9.75 million. Project approvals increased by 50 percent, and commitments surged by over 83 percent to US$813.77 million, with a focus on energy and transport infrastructure.
The Minister also pointed to milestone achievements, including reaffirmed ratings by Moody’s (B2-Stable) and Fitch (B-Stable), accreditation with the Green Climate Fund, and the opening of EBID’s Abidjan Regional Office.
However, Forson underscored concerns over capital subscriptions. He reminded Governors of a 2022 decision to raise EBID’s authorized capital to US$3.4 billion, with a third tranche of US$411.4 million due by December 2025. To date, only Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and Togo have fully met their obligations, leaving arrears of approximately US$256 million.
“Timely capital payments are critical. They strengthen EBID’s leverage and sustain its growth and impact across our region,” Forson said, urging member states to act with renewed commitment.
He concluded by calling for bold, united action to shape West Africa’s economic future, reminding Governors that citizens expect tangible results. Forson also invited participants to experience Ghana’s rich culture and heritage during their stay in Accra.
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