Global and local leaders of Opportunity International (OI) have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding inclusive finance in Ghana, as stakeholders gathered in Accra for the OI Global Board and CEOs Meeting.

The week-long engagements culminated in a celebratory dinner at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel, Accra, on February 27, under the theme, “Seeds of Opportunity: A Ghanaian Story of Growth and Impact.”

The event brought together Board Chairs, Chief Executive Officers, Regulators, Banking leaders, and Development partners to reflect on more than three decades of microfinance impact in Ghana.

Strengthening Financial Inclusion

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Opportunity International US, Atul Tandon, described Ghana as a strong example of how inclusive finance can transform lives when supported by strong partnerships and sound governance.

“Our focus is ensuring that families at the base of the pyramid have access not just to credit, but to savings, insurance, and financial education that help them build resilience,” he said.

He emphasised that Opportunity International remains committed to supporting smallholder farmers, women entrepreneurs, and micro and small businesses through innovative financial products and digital solutions.

Local Impact and Institutional Growth

The Chief Executive Officer of Opportunity International Savings and Loans Ltd (OISL), Ernest Yerekuu, highlighted the institution’s steady growth and its contribution to Ghana’s financial ecosystem, noting that it has served over 700,000 clients since its inception and is among the leading savings and loans institutions in the country.

Mr. Yerekuu stated that OISL’s next phase of growth will focus on deepening digital innovation, strengthening risk management systems, and expanding outreach to underserved communities, particularly women- and youth-led enterprises.

Looking ahead to Ghana’s broader economic trajectory, he noted: “Ghana’s macroeconomic recovery presents a critical moment for inclusive finance.

As stability strengthens and growth rebounds, we must ensure that capital flows not only to large corporations but also to the micro and small businesses that form the backbone of our economy.

OISL is positioning itself to responsibly scale credit, savings, and climate-resilient financing solutions to this segment, with strong governance and disciplined risk management at the core.”

Regulatory Oversight and Financial Stability

Also addressing participants was Ismail Adam, the Head of the Banking Supervision Department at the Bank of Ghana.

He underscored the critical role of effective regulation and supervision in maintaining financial stability and protecting depositors.

He reiterated the Bank of Ghana’s commitment to enforcing prudential guidelines, strengthening risk management frameworks, and promoting sound corporate governance across regulated financial institutions.

Mr Adam commended OISL for its contribution to deepening financial inclusion while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.

Celebrating Three Decades of Impact

In her welcome address, the Board Chair of OISL, Alberta Quarcoopome, described the institution’s journey as one that began with “a seed planted in faith” at a time when access to formal financial services was limited.

She noted that what started as a small initiative has grown into a trusted pillar of inclusive finance in Ghana, empowering families, expanding farms, formalising businesses, and restoring livelihoods.

The evening featured a documentary highlighting a beneficiary of the OISL Kayayei programme, cultural performances, and reflections from the OI Global Board Chair, Walter Lewin.

Looking Ahead

Stakeholders at the OI Global Board and CEO’s meeting resolved that the next phase of growth will prioritise: Climate resilience financing, Youth entrepreneurship, Digital transformation, and Community development

The shared ambition is to ensure that the “seeds of opportunity” planted decades ago continue to bear fruit for generations to come.