The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has urged all ECOWAS member states to settle their outstanding financial obligations to the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), emphasising that prompt capital payments are crucial for the bank’s development and regional influence.
During the 24th Annual General Meeting of EBID held in Accra on April 8, 2026, Dr Forson noted that although Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and Togo have fulfilled their commitments, several other member states still have substantial arrears.
The total outstanding amount stands at approximately $256 million USD, following the December 2025 deadline for the third tranche of subscriptions.
“Expanding our capital base is essential to strengthen our ability to finance transformative development projects and stimulate inclusive economic growth among our Member States,” Dr. . Forson said.
“Timely capital payments strengthen EBID’s leverage and sustain its growth and impact across our region.”
EBID reported strong performance in 2025 despite global economic challenges, with balance sheet growth from $1.97 billion to $2.4 billion and profitability increase of 13.4% to $9.8 million.
The bank achieved notable operational milestones, including a 50% increase in project approvals and mobilised over $510 million USD for priority projects.
The finance minister urged stakeholders to work with unity and decisiveness for EBID’s future and West Africa’s development.
“Our discussions here in Accra will be rigorous because the expectations of our citizens are very high. They look to us for results, and we must deliver the results,” Dr. Forson added.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana