BoG Deputy Governor Calls for Faster and Inclusive Digital Payments Across Africa

The First Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Zakari Mumuni, has called for stronger collaboration among African regulators, banks and fintech companies to build inclusive and interoperable instant payment systems across the continent. Speaking at the 3i Africa Summit 2026 in Accra, Dr. Mumuni said fragmented payment systems continue to slow Africa’s digital economic growth and financial integration. He stressed that inclusive instant payment systems are essential to building a connected digital economy that supports financial inclusion and cross-border trade in Africa. According to him, although mobile money, fintech innovation and digital wallets have expanded access to financial services, high transaction costs and weak interoperability still make seamless transactions difficult across platforms and countries. Dr. Mumuni noted that efficient instant payment systems can help businesses improve cash flow, support government revenue mobilisation and provide affordable financial services to underserved communities. He also urged African central banks and payment operators to strengthen cooperation through harmonised e-KYC systems, aligned licensing frameworks and better cross-border payment arrangements. Dr. Mumuni added that Ghana has already introduced several instant payment platforms, but the long-term goal is to ensure that digital payment systems remain accessible, affordable and trusted by all citizens.