ARB Outlines ESG-Driven Strategy for Growth as It Marks 10th Rural Banking Week

 

The Ashanti Chapter of the Association of Rural Banks (ARB) has launched the 10th Rural Banking Week alongside the 2nd ARB Women’s Conference, calling on Rural and Community Banks (RCBs) to strengthen financial inclusion and enhance governance through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.

The week-long celebration, themed “Driving Sustainable Financial Inclusion and Good Governance in Rural and Community Banks Based on ESG Principles,” runs from 10–16 November 2025, with a national climax scheduled later in the month.

Activities for the Celebration

Planned activities include:

• 12 November: Radio discussions to promote rural banking
• 14 November: Donation exercise at Garden City Special School
• 30 November: Thanksgiving service at Peyer’s Presby Church in Bantama

The national climax event, organised in partnership with ARB Ghana, will take place on 22 November at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho.

Leadership Emphasises ESG and Inclusion

Speaking at the launch, Ashanti Chapter President Ben Kwakye-Adeefe Esq. encouraged directors, CEOs, and media partners to support the programme and amplify the impact of the 28 rural banks under the Ashanti Chapter.

He highlighted the role of ESG integration in improving transparency, strengthening governance systems, and supporting sustainable development. According to him, Rural and Community Banks remain central to Ghana’s financial inclusion agenda, collectively serving more than 6.5 million customers.

Rural Banking Growth and Impact

Since the establishment of the first rural bank in Agona Nyakrom in 1976, the sector has grown to 147 licensed RCBs with over 850 branches nationwide. The Ashanti Region alone hosts 28 rural banks and one affiliate, providing employment to more than 6,000 people.

RCBs continue to play a vital role in extending credit and financial services to farmers, traders, and small businesses in underserved communities. They remain key drivers of job creation, local economic development, and financial intermediation.

Mr. Kwakye-Adeefe noted that improving ESG practices, promoting women’s leadership, and reinforcing sound governance will be critical for maintaining the relevance and strength of RCBs as the sector approaches its 50th anniversary.

He also acknowledged ARB Apex Bank PLC and development partners, including GIZ, for their support in advocacy, training, and capacity building—particularly initiatives aimed at increasing women’s representation in managerial and board roles.

Focus on Women’s Leadership

The 2nd ARB Women’s Conference, scheduled for 20–23 November in Ho, will focus on leadership development, inclusion, and the growing influence of women within the financial sector.

President of the Ashanti Rural Bank Ladies (ARBLAS), Nana Mansa Afra I, emphasised that women’s participation in leadership enhances risk management, improves customer engagement, and strengthens overall institutional performance. She acknowledged existing challenges, including limited mentorship opportunities and work–life balance constraints, but noted that women continue to play a significant role in driving resilience and growth in rural banking.

Source: theghanareport