In a keynote address at the High-Level West Africa–Asia Capital Dialogue, held alongside the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Annual Meetings, Bank of Ghana First Deputy Governor Dr Zakari Mumuni called for stronger project preparation, better risk sharing, appropriate long-term financing and durable institutional partnerships to increase Asian investment in West Africa. He argued that capital and investment opportunities are available, but confidence, risk perceptions and weak investment structures continue to constrain flows. Mumuni identified currency and financing risks, policy uncertainty, contract enforcement, infrastructure constraints and limited exit options as key investor concerns. He urged West African institutions to improve regulatory predictability and develop commercially viable projects supported by credible feasibility studies and transparent risk allocation. His proposed agenda includes identifying priority sectors and projects, creating structured channels between African sponsors and Asian investors, expanding trade finance, payment connectivity and local currency financing, and tracking delivery against defined timelines. Central banks should support this agenda through price and financial stability, efficient payment systems and transparent foreign exchange arrangements.
Bank of Ghana First Deputy Governor calls for stronger project preparation and risk sharing to unlock Asian investment in West Africa
Bank of Ghana First Deputy Governor Dr Zakari Mumuni called for better project preparation, risk sharing and long-term financing to attract more Asian capital to West Africa. He proposed closer investor engagement, expanded trade finance and payment connectivity, greater use of local currency financing and clear mechanisms to track delivery.