Accra, March 10, GNA – Fidelity Bank Ghana has been adjudged the “Best Bank in Financial Inclusion in West Africa” at the 15th Africa Bank 4.0 Summit and Awards – West Africa, held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra.
The award, announced in an official press release to the Ghana News Agency, in Accra, on Monday, recognises the bank’s pioneering role in expanding financial access to millions of unbanked and underbanked Ghanaians over the past decade.
“This award is a testament to the tireless efforts of our team and partners, particularly our agents, and the unflinching commitment we have shown to bridging the financial gap in Ghana over the years,” said Mr Julian Opuni, Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Ghana.
“We have always believed that banking should be inclusive. Our innovative products and strategic partnerships have not only expanded our customer base but have also driven economic growth by empowering individuals and communities. This award reinforces our commitment to support every Ghanaian’s financial journey—truly, we are here for your journey.”
For his part, Dr David Okyere, Head of Agency Banking at Fidelity Bank, recounted the bank’s journey towards financial inclusion, noting that in 2011, about 70 per cent of the Ghanaian population was unbanked.
This realisation, he said, prompted the bank to develop innovative solutions such as the Smart Account, which requires minimal documentation, and a nationwide Agency Banking network that has grown to about 8,000 agents.
“We understood that traditional banking models were failing to reach a significant portion of the population,” Dr Okyere stated.
“We needed to break down barriers and bring banking services to the people, rather than expecting people to come to the bank.”
To bridge the financial gap, Fidelity Bank introduced several key initiatives, including the Smart Account, a simplified banking product that requires only a national ID for registration, making it accessible to those without formal documentation.
The bank also developed a robust Agency Banking network, with 8,000 agents across the country providing essential banking services in both urban and rural areas.
Strategic partnerships with organisations such as Ghana Post and Melcom enabled the establishment of agent banking points in accessible locations, allowing customers to carry out transactions conveniently.
Additionally, the bank rolled out extensive financial literacy programmes to educate individuals and small businesses on banking benefits, savings, and responsible financial management. Its digital banking expansion also played a crucial role, providing mobile banking solutions that allow seamless transactions for individuals who may not have easy access to traditional banking services.
These efforts have led to the successful onboarding of over 1.5 million previously unbanked and underbanked individuals, setting a new standard in Ghana’s banking sector.
Mr Samuel Abbey Dodoo, Head of Inclusive Banking, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to financial inclusion. “Our journey is far from over. By leveraging technology, forging strategic partnerships, and investing in our Agents, we will ensure that every Ghanaian has the opportunity to access quality financial services, empowering them to build a brighter future.”
Fidelity Bank said it planned to introduce new products, including the Smart Loan, a digital micro-loan requiring no collateral, and micro-insurance options to further enhance financial accessibility.
The bank is also intensifying efforts to expand digital financial literacy programmes and develop more innovative solutions for underserved segments.
Fidelity Bank is the country’s largest privately-owned indigenous bank, with a strong reputation for innovation and customer-centric banking solutions. Since its inception in 2006, it has grown to become a leader in financial inclusion, digital banking, and corporate banking.
It operates a network of branches and agent banking locations nationwide, offering a wide range of retail, SME, and corporate banking services.
GNA