By Zobia Zulfqar 
ARB Apex Bank has commended Awutu Emasa Community Bank PLC for its 35 years of service to the Awutu community while urging the institution to strengthen corporate governance, improve regulatory compliance, and accelerate efforts to meet new capital requirements introduced by the Bank of Ghana.
Speaking at the bank’s 35th Annual Stakeholders’ Durbar in Awutu Bereku, the Acting Managing Director of ARB Apex Bank PLC, Mr. Curtis Brantuo, said strong governance, prudent risk management, and strict regulatory compliance remain the foundation of a resilient banking sector.
His remarks were delivered on his behalf by Mr. Kofi Owusu during the anniversary event, which brought together the bank’s board members, management, staff, shareholders, customers, and other stakeholders to celebrate three and a half decades of community banking.
Mr. Brantuo congratulated the leadership and stakeholders of Awutu Emasa Community Bank for reaching the significant milestone, describing 35 years of continuous service as a remarkable achievement that reflects dedication, resilience, and commitment to local economic development.
He noted that community banks continue to play an important role in expanding financial inclusion, supporting small businesses, promoting savings, and providing access to credit in communities that are often underserved by larger commercial banks.
According to him, the annual stakeholders’ durbar serves as an important platform for institutions to review their performance, assess challenges, celebrate achievements, and develop practical strategies for future growth in an increasingly competitive financial environment.
Mr. Brantuo stressed that every community bank must maintain high standards of corporate governance to remain financially sound and continue earning the confidence of customers and regulators.
He outlined several expectations that ARB Apex Bank considers essential for sustainable banking operations. These include strict adherence to Bank of Ghana directives, effective board oversight, strong management accountability, robust credit risk management systems, efficient loan recovery mechanisms, and zero tolerance for insider related infractions.
He explained that these principles are critical to protecting depositors’ funds while ensuring that community banks remain stable and capable of supporting local economic development.
Mr. Brantuo also highlighted the ongoing reforms being implemented by the Bank of Ghana under its Microfinance Sector Reform Programme. He explained that the programme requires all rural and community banks to transition into fully fledged community banks that are stronger, better capitalised, technologically advanced, well governed, and more resilient.
According to him, the reforms are intended to strengthen Ghana’s financial sector by improving governance standards, increasing operational efficiency, and ensuring that community banks are better prepared to respond to changing economic conditions.
As part of the reform programme, the Bank of Ghana has introduced a new minimum paid up capital requirement of GH¢5 million for all existing community banks across the country.
Mr. Brantuo reminded stakeholders that community banks are expected to meet the capital requirement by the regulatory deadline of December 31, 2026.
He urged the board, management, and shareholders of Awutu Emasa Community Bank to take immediate steps toward meeting the new threshold by conducting a comprehensive capital adequacy assessment and implementing an effective recapitalisation strategy.
He encouraged the bank to strengthen shareholder commitment, develop a clear capital mobilisation plan, and submit a credible recapitalisation roadmap that would enable the institution to meet the regulatory requirement within the specified timeline.
According to him, timely action will help the bank remain compliant with Bank of Ghana regulations while strengthening its financial position for future growth.
Mr. Brantuo further emphasised the importance of embracing technology to improve banking services and operational efficiency. He said digital transformation has become an essential part of modern banking and community banks must continue investing in technological solutions that improve customer experience while strengthening security and operational resilience.
He added that strong governance and adequate capital alone are not enough to guarantee long term success. Community banks must also continue improving customer service, strengthening internal controls, managing risks effectively, and investing in staff development to remain competitive within Ghana’s evolving financial sector.
The anniversary celebration also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on the bank’s achievements over the past 35 years and recognise its contribution to local economic development.
Throughout its history, Awutu Emasa Community Bank has supported businesses, farmers, traders, and individuals through financial services that promote economic growth within the Awutu Senya West District and surrounding communities.
The institution has also played an important role in mobilising savings, supporting entrepreneurship, and expanding access to banking services in areas where financial inclusion remains a priority.
ARB Apex Bank expressed confidence that with continued commitment from the board, management, staff, shareholders, and customers, Awutu Emasa Community Bank will successfully meet the new regulatory requirements and continue serving its communities for many years to come.
The bank’s 35th anniversary was celebrated not only as a milestone in its history but also as an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to sound governance, responsible banking practices, and sustainable growth as Ghana’s community banking sector continues to evolve.
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