Accra: The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, has disclosed the government's support for recapitalising the central bank following the balance sheet strain recorded during the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP). Speaking at the 128th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) press briefing on January 28, 2026, Dr Asiama highlighted the importance of this process for the central bank's development and strategic positioning.
According to Ghana Web, Dr Asiama emphasized the government's commitment to recapitalise the central bank to address the impact of the domestic debt restructuring programme. He stated that discussions with the government have been fruitful and that there is support to help repair the bank's balance sheet. Dr Asiama noted that restoring the Bank of Ghana's capital position will help stabilise market conditions and close loopholes within the country's financial landscape.
The Bank of Ghana has also announced a reduction in the policy rate from 18% to 15.5%. Dr Asiama underlined the importance of addressing the damages incurred to safeguard the central bank's ability to operate independently and maintain confidence in monetary policy.
The government had previously recapitalised some commercial banks in 2025. Dr Asiama reported that these banks have shown strong financial records, indicating an improved environment for banking operations in Ghana. He noted that by the end of 2025, 21 out of 23 licensed banks had met the required capital adequacy thresholds, with two banks granted a deadline until the end of March 2026 to fully comply. Dr Asiama expressed confidence in the progress of the recapitalisation strategy and assured that the situation is being closely monitored to ensure full compliance.