The Bank of Sierra Leone has turned to Ghana for lessons in expanding digital financial services, with a delegation completing a two-day study tour at the Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlement Systems Ltd (GhIPSS).
The visit focused on Ghana’s progress in interoperability, instant payment platforms, and governance models that have enabled wider financial access. Delegates also explored how Ghana’s partnerships with banks and mobile money operators have accelerated adoption of digital payments and reduced dependence on cash.
Clara B. Arthur, CEO of GhIPSS, said the collaboration underscored the need for shared strategies in Africa’s digital finance drive. “It is good that we exchange knowledge and engage in meaningful discussions about advancing payment systems across our countries. The engagement between Ghana and Sierra Leone offers a unique opportunity to explore how we can build more robust, diversified, and interoperable payment ecosystems to serve the evolving needs of our populations,” she said.
Sierra Leone’s central bank has been pushing reforms to expand electronic payments, but gaps remain in access and efficiency. By drawing on Ghana’s experience with innovations such as mobile money interoperability, officials hope to boost financial inclusion, strengthen oversight, and expand services to underserved communities.
Analysts say cross-border collaboration of this kind could accelerate the modernization of Africa’s payment systems. Wider adoption of best practices in governance, instant settlement, and integration of mobile platforms is seen as critical to unlocking growth in digital finance across the continent.
The Bank of Sierra Leone delegation said insights from the visit would help shape upcoming reforms, positioning Sierra Leone to extend secure, affordable, and reliable financial services to more of its population.
