The Deputy Managing Director in charge of Services (DMD Services) at the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB PLC), Professor Ferdinand Ahiakpor, has commended the Government of Ghana for its strategic investments in digital transformation and technology infrastructure, describing them as critical catalysts for economic growth, innovation, financial inclusion, and private sector development.
Speaking at the Africa Energy Technology Conference 2026, the DMD Services, who is a professor in economics, stated that government-led digital initiatives are creating significant opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, financial institutions, and young innovators across Ghana and the wider African continent.
According to Prof. Ahiakpor, digitalisation is rapidly transforming economies globally, and Ghana’s commitment to expanding digital infrastructure, improving connectivity, strengthening fintech ecosystems, and promoting technology-driven governance is positioning the country for long-term economic competitiveness.
“The government’s investments in digital transformation are not only modernising service delivery but also creating new economic opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, young people, and underserved communities,” the ADB DMD Services stated.
He explained that technology has become one of the most powerful drivers of productivity, innovation, operational efficiency, and inclusive growth, particularly in emerging economies seeking to accelerate development and job creation.
The ADB DMD Services noted that Ghana’s expanding digital ecosystem is opening up new possibilities in mobile banking, digital payments, e-commerce, agritech, fintech innovation, SME growth, and financial inclusion. He indicated that increased investment in digital infrastructure is also improving access to financial services and enabling businesses to scale operations more efficiently in an increasingly interconnected economy.
“Digital transformation is reshaping how economies function, how businesses operate, and how people access opportunities. Countries that embrace innovation and technology today will be better positioned to compete tomorrow.”
Professor Ferdinand Ahiakpor
Prof. Ahiakpor further highlighted the important role financial institutions must play in supporting the country’s digital transformation agenda through innovation, strategic financing, customer-focused technology solutions, and partnerships that empower businesses and individuals.
He underscored the importance of collaboration between government, banks, fintech firms, technology companies, regulators, and development partners in building resilient and digitally inclusive economies.
He stressed that stronger collaboration would accelerate entrepreneurship, expand financial inclusion, support SMEs, improve productivity, and create sustainable employment opportunities for the youth.
Touching on ADB’s own transformation journey, the DMD Services reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to innovation, digital banking excellence, and customer-centric service delivery. He noted that the Bank continues to invest significantly in digital banking platforms, mobile banking solutions, customer experience enhancement, cybersecurity, and technology-driven financial services designed to improve accessibility and convenience for customers.
Professor Ferdinand Ahiakpor called for sustained investment in digital literacy, innovation hubs, and skills development to ensure that young people are adequately prepared for the opportunities emerging within the digital economy.
The Africa Energy Technology Conference which took place at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, Accra, from 19th to 21st May 2026, brought together policymakers, business leaders, financial institutions, technology experts, energy stakeholders, innovators, and development partners to discuss emerging trends, investment opportunities, and strategic collaborations driving Africa’s digital and energy transformation agenda.
