CIB Ghana, GhISP build financial institutions capacity to drive gender-smart

The Chartered Institute of Bankers, Ghana (CIB Ghana) recently collaborated with the Ghana Investment Support Programme (GhISP) to host a two-day workshop aimed at enhancing the capacity of financial institutions in serving the Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) sector. The event, held on October 15th and 16th 2026 at CIB Ghana's headquarters in Accra, brought together professionals from various banks and selected Finance Houses to address the challenges faced in financing SMEs.

One participant highlighted a key challenge: assessing the viability of businesses that may lack traditional financial records or structures. The workshop provided practical strategies to evaluate cash flows, business models, and other indicators of SME viability. Participants engaged in discussions on inclusive lending approaches, climate risk considerations, and gender-smart finance to better meet the needs of SME borrowers.

The workshop covered a range of topics, including sustainable SME business models, inclusive product design, governance and risk assessment, green SME financing, and credit assessment methods. By adopting an interactive format featuring expert presentations, case studies, and group discussions, attendees gained valuable insights applicable to their lending and portfolio management practices.

Following the workshop, participating financial institutions were encouraged to implement the knowledge gained in areas such as credit assessment, product development, and engagement with SMEs. CIB Ghana's CEO, Mr. Robert Dzato, emphasized the importance of equipping banking professionals with the tools to make informed, inclusive, and sustainable lending decisions. The event marked the inaugural workshop in a series, with a follow-up session planned for November 2026 in Kumasi.

CIB Ghana, as the professional body for banking in Ghana, focuses on promoting banking practices, regulating the profession, and fostering industry development through education and engagement. The Ghana Investment Support Programme (GhISP), supported by British International Investment (BII), SECO, and Norfund, aims to increase investment in underserved SMEs, particularly focusing on gender inclusion and climate considerations.

The partnership between CIB Ghana and GhISP underscores the commitment to strengthening financial inclusion and supporting Ghana's SME sector's growth and development.