Dr Cassiel Ato Forson (Right) meets with EBID President, Dr George Donkor (Left)

The Minister for Finance and Chairman of the Board of Governors of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has held his maiden meeting with the President of EBID, Dr George Agyekum Donkor, in Accra.

The meeting focused on the Bank’s performance and broader efforts to promote regional reintegration within ECOWAS.

Dr Donkor delivered a detailed presentation on the state of EBID, highlighting the institution’s significant progress, recovering from previous losses and now charting a positive financial trajectory.

As of the end of 2024, EBID had committed $4.5 billion in investments across the sub-region and is working towards securing improved ratings from international credit agencies.

Addressing the regional political context, Dr Forson reaffirmed the position of the ECOWAS Heads of State on the importance of reintegrating the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) countries that have exited the regional bloc.

He emphasised that their return is crucial for regional cohesion and sustainable development.

Dr Forson urged stakeholders to emulate the commitment of former President John Dramani Mahama, who is spearheading diplomatic efforts to bring the AES nations back into the ECOWAS fold.

He described President Mahama’s engagement as a demonstration of strong leadership at a critical time for the region.

The meeting marks a renewed drive by the leadership of EBID to deepen collaboration with member states and to advance inclusive economic growth across West Africa.