Dr. Ato Forson elected Chair of
ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development

New leadership signals a vision for resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth across West Africa

In a significant milestone for both Ghana and the sub-region, Dr. Ato Forson, Ghana’s Minister for Finance, has been elected Chairman of the Board of Governors of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID). The election took place during the Bank’s 23rd Annual General Meeting, held in Banjul, The Gambia.

Though unable to attend in person, Dr. Forson was represented by Deputy Minister Hon. Thomas Nyarko Ampem, who conveyed the Minister’s appreciation and strategic intentions to the gathering of regional finance leaders and stakeholders.

A humble honour and a weighty responsibility

Dr. Forson expressed deep gratitude to his peers on the Board for the confidence they have placed in him. He described the appointment as both a personal honour and a profound responsibility—one that he accepts with humility and resolve.

“This appointment is not only a personal honour but also a significant responsibility—one I embrace with humility and determination,” he said in a statement following the announcement.

A bold vision anchored on four strategic pillars

Outlining his vision for EBID, Dr. Forson articulated four key strategic pillars aimed at transforming the Bank into a dynamic force for regional development:

1. Strengthening Resource Mobilization – Ensuring EBID is financially equipped to meet the development goals of its member states.

2. Improving Capital Recovery – Enhancing operational efficiency and asset management to ensure financial sustainability.

3. Facilitating Non-Regional Membership – Broadening the Bank’s investment base by welcoming partnerships beyond the West African sub-region.

4. Positioning EBID as the Premier Development Finance Institution in West Africa – Establishing the Bank as a driver of transformative, inclusive economic impact.

“These priorities reflect our collective ambition to build a more integrated and prosperous West Africa,” Dr. Forson emphasized.

Continuity, collaboration, and commitment

The newly elected Chair also commended EBID President Dr. George Agyekum Donkor and his team for their dedication to advancing regional integration and economic growth. He acknowledged the foundational work already done and expressed a readiness to collaborate closely in strengthening the institution.

In paying tribute to his predecessor, Hon. Seedy Keita, Dr. Forson lauded his leadership and pledged to build on the legacy of progress established under Keita’s tenure.

Ghana’s unwavering support for regional development

Dr. Forson reassured fellow member states of Ghana’s steadfast commitment to EBID’s mission. His election reflects not only Ghana’s growing leadership role in regional economic affairs but also a shared aspiration for a self-reliant, unified, and economically empowered West Africa.

“As Chairman, I look forward to working closely with all stakeholders to chart a path of resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth for our sub-region,” he stated.

With Dr. Forson at the helm, EBID is poised for a new era of dynamic leadership aimed at fostering sustainable development, strengthening financial systems, and deepening economic integration across West Africa.