The Bank of Ghana has entered into a strategic partnership with the National Bank of Rwanda and Singapore’s Global Financial Technology Network to initiate the Next-Gen Digital Payment Infrastructure Project (DPI). This ambitious venture represents a significant advancement in establishing a robust, innovation-driven framework for cross-border digital payments throughout Africa.
Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiamah, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, unveiled the DPI project during the opening ceremony of the 3i Africa Policy Forum at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra. This initiative is set to revolutionise the continent’s financial ecosystem. The forum, themed “One Africa, One Market: Driving Innovation, Investment, and Impact for a Connected Future,” gathered key figures from finance, technology, and policy sectors to discuss the trajectory of Africa’s digital transformation.
Dr. Asiamah highlighted the pressing need to envision Africa as a cohesive and dynamic economic entity, emphasising that such a vision demands collaborative efforts and sustained commitment. “Innovation and strategic investment must guide our steps if we are to connect every corner of the continent,” he remarked.
Despite the impressive growth in financial technologies and digital assets across Africa, Dr. Asiamah stressed that isolated national efforts are inadequate. He advocated for the harmonisation of regulations across the continent and the enhancement of transparency to fully leverage the advantages of cross-border payments and promote financial inclusion.
The DPI initiative builds on existing regional frameworks, including the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) and Ghana’s fintech collaboration with Rwanda. These initiatives aim to streamline transactions and empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to enhance intra-African trade and innovation.
Encouraging a pragmatic and ambitious approach, Dr. Asiamah urged participants to transform policy discussions into tangible actions. He expressed confidence that by 2030, Africa could achieve a unified digital financial ecosystem, positioning the continent as a global frontrunner in fintech and digital finance.
The 3i Africa Policy Forum will continue this week, featuring in-depth sessions anticipated to generate actionable strategies and foster cross-border collaboration.
