The Bank of Africa (BOA) Group has commenced full operations in Ghana after it acquired majority of shares in Amalgamated Bank (Amalbank). The company promises to offer the Ghanaian customers better access to BOA’s broad portfolio of products and services which have made the bank one of the foremost brands in Africa. During a press launch in Accra Wednesday, Mr Kobby Andah, Managing Director of BOA-Ghana stated that the bank plans to commit itself to its “mission of offering innovative and convenient financial solutions to meet the needs of our customers.” “With the benefit of the Group’s experience and support,” he noted, “the drive into Retail and SME markets would continue with even more passion.” He added that more emphasis would be placed on strategic expansion of its branch network and also facilitate cross-border trade within the West African sub-region. Commenting on the unwillingness of banks to reduce interest rates despite calls from government to do so, the MD explained that there were structural impediments which needed to be resolved before any such move could be practical. BOA-Ghana, according to Mr Andah, intends to penetrate the Ghanaian economy, targeting areas like oil & gas sector. The bank also plans to invest in education, women’s healthcare, arts and culture. Established in Mali in 1982, the BOA Group is a privately owned multinational financial service provider with presence in 15 countries including Benin, Burkina Faso, DR Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, France and now Ghana.