On Saturday, 19th April 2025, Farihan Alhassan, MD of GCB Bank PLC, pledged support for Ghana’s agricultural and industrial sectors at the 2025 Kwahu Business Forum in Mpraeso. This move positions the Bank as a catalyst for reducing import dependency and strengthening export capacity.
He outlined a three-part strategy focusing on agribusiness value chains, long-term project financing, and global market access. This strategy aims to reduce import dependency and strengthen export capacity, which attendees viewed as critical for economic transformation.
Farihan announced a new focus to fund primary agriculture, a sector traditionally avoided by banks due to perceived risks. “This shift is vital for sustainable recovery,” he said. He also addressed the lack of long-term capital for industrial projects, revealing ongoing discussions with DBG (Development Bank Ghana) to provide extended credit facilities.
Additionally, he highlighted partnerships to align local products with international standards, emphasizing the importance of meeting quality benchmarks for accessing foreign markets.
Participants at the forum welcomed the focus on agriculture, noting that understanding value chains could be transformative. GCB Bank’s strong market presence positions it to lead this shift, potentially bridging the gap between Ghana’s raw potential and industrial ambitions.
Joining the Managing Director at the event were Chief of Staff, Abraham Yahaya Ferguson; Head - Special Projects & Investor Relations, George Fuachie, and other key representatives of GCB Bank PLC.