This article was created with ECOWAS Bank's investment and development support
Ghana's Finance Minister, Dr. Kaciel At Baa Forson has been appointed chairman of the board of directors of the ECOWAS Bank of Investment and Development (EBID). His leadership comes at a critical time for regional banks as he raises infrastructure, promotes economic integration and expands his efforts to attract new partners.
Strategically important regional appointments
In the unanimous decision made during the 23rd regular session of the Investment Development Bank (EBID) Committee of ECOWAS Bank, the Minister of Finance of Ghana, Dr. Casielle At Baa Forson, has been appointed chairman of the bank's highest governing body. This session was held on April 14, 2025 in Banjul, Gambia.
Dr. Forson has taken over from the prestigious and shady Keita, Minister of Finance and Economics in the Gambia. The appointment reflects both the rise profile of Ghana within the ECOWAS region and the trust placed in Dr. Forson's economic leader.
The board overseeing Ebid's management and governance consists of finance or planning ministers of all 15 ECOWAS member states. As the new chair, Dr. Forson will take on a central role in guiding the bank's strategic courses and institutional development over the next year.
Banks driving West Africa integration
Established in 1975 under the ECOWAS Fund, EBID is the financial engine for the economic community of West African countries (ECOWAS). Its mission is to promote regional integration and development through investment in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, private sector growth, and other socioeconomic projects.
Focusing on sustainable development and cross-border cooperation, EBID will guide resources to shocking initiatives and help member states address pressing challenges such as connectivity, industrialization and poverty reduction.
The bank has recently embarked on a major push to increase its capital base and expand its business. Dr. Forson's appointment is considered the key to achieving this, particularly in the areas of fiscal oversight, investor trust, and policy alignment across the subregion.
Technocrats at the helm
Dr. Forson brings more than 20 years of experience in economics, tax policy, finance and public sector reform. A veteran chartered accountant and tax practitioner, he has established several high-level positions in Ghana's financial sector, including his previous role as Deputy Minister of Finance.
His expertise spans macroeconomic management, fiscal integration, and international financial cooperation.
Speaking about the appointment, Dr. George Agiekum Dongkol, chairman and chairman of the board of directors of EBID, expressed strong confidence in the new chairman's ability to take the agency to the next stage.
“With Honorary Dr. Forson's extensive experience and a deep understanding of regional finance, he is very suited to this role,” Dr. Dongcole said. “I believe his leadership will inspire efforts to expand operations, attract new capital and deliver stronger results across the ECOWAS region.”
Ghana's commitment to regional growth
In the event that Dr. Forson was absent at a meeting held in Banjul, his message was conveyed by Ghana's Deputy Minister of Finance, Honorary Deputy Minister Thomas Nyarko Amum. He reaffirmed Ghana's commitment to strengthening Evid's mission and building out the agency's achievements.
According to the Deputy Minister, Dr. Forson is determined to support banks in moving forward with key priorities such as resource mobilization, capital recovery and institutional reform. He also highlighted Ghana's support for expanding Ebid's membership by joining non-regional partners, an initiative aimed at increasing the global competitiveness and sustainability of the bank.
“Dr. Forson thinks this is a moment of transformation,” Ampem said. “Ghana is ready to work with all member states to ensure that EBID becomes a world-class development financial institution with a measurable impact.”
Opportunities and obstacles on the road ahead
The new leadership of the bank arrives at a time of considerable challenge and change. Throughout the ECOWAS region, member states are fighting against rising debt, infrastructure deficits and the urgent need to rebuild their economies following recent global shocks.
At the same time, opportunities are ripe for this region. Interest is growing from the momentum behind international investors, a youthful population that promotes innovation and entrepreneurship, and projects that enhance energy access, transportation corridors, digital infrastructure, and food security.
For EBID to meet these expectations, it must strengthen its financial position, streamline operations and continue to build new alliances with both public and private partners. Dr. Forson's appointment is expected to bring fresh energy to these efforts, especially in areas where strong governance and economic foresight are most needed.
Key aspects of the bank's future growth strategy involve diversifying the funding base, expanding the project pipeline, and increasing participation of non-regional capital providers. Dr. Forson's financial performance, particularly stabilizing Ghana's economy through targeted reforms, could increase the appeal of EBID to global development stakeholders.
Platform for Local Leadership
Dr. Forson's agenda is expected to focus on promoting investment in local infrastructure, improving internal governance, promoting ECOWAS trade, and ensuring environmental sustainability across all bank-funded projects. Also paying attention to digital transformation and inclusive growth will be made in line with broader continental development frameworks such as the African Union Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA).
Next year is crucial for EBID as it seeks to consolidate its profits and expand its impact on development. With Ghana currently holding a small giveaway on the Governor's Committee, there is high hope that the agency will accelerate its mission to transform West Africa into a shared zone of prosperity, connection and economic resilience.
Time to lead
The weight of local expectations rests on experienced shoulders, just as the honorable Dr. Casielle at Baa Forson stepped into this important leadership role. His appointment as chair of the EBID Governor's Committee will not only provide expertise and reliability, but also new political mandate to deepen cooperation across West Africa.
With strong support from the Ghanaian government and collaboration with EBID strategic goals, Dr. Forson's leadership is committed to gaining innovative partnerships, stronger governance and greater ways of outcome for the people of ECOWAS.
