Vice President Confirms Women’s Bank Rollout by Year-End | Discuss Ghana

In a major update for female entrepreneurs across Ghana, the Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has confirmed that the government's flagship Women’s Development Bank (WDB) is on track to be fully operational by the end of 2026.

Speaking on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Aboakyer Festival in Winneba, the Vice President reassured the public that the extensive preparatory work—including implementation workshops and capital allocation—is nearing completion.

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A Specialized Financial Shield

The Women’s Development Bank is designed to bypass the traditional hurdles that prevent many women from securing business capital.

Low-Interest Loans: The bank will offer credit at significantly lower rates than commercial banks, specifically targeting women-led enterprises, market traders, and fish processors.

Capital Allocation: The 2026 Budget has already allocated GH¢401 million for the bank’s capitalization. According to Minister of Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu, this ensures the institution has the "financial teeth" to start lending immediately upon launch.

Mentorship and Support: Beyond just cash, the WDB will provide specialized mentorship and business training to help women transition from informal trading to structured, scalable businesses.

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"No More Barriers"

Vice President Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that the bank is a direct response to the "backbone of the economy" struggling with high-interest microfinance.

"We have taken our time to build this because we want it to be sustainable," the Vice President stated. "Our market women and small-scale entrepreneurs deserve a bank that understands their unique cycles. This bank will democratize access to finance and ensure that no woman’s business idea dies for lack of a fair loan."

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The "Resetting Ghana" Strategy

The rollout of the Women’s Development Bank is a pillar of the John Mahama administration’s broader economic plan:

30% Gender Quota: The bank complements the government’s commitment to a 30% quota for women in all political and leadership appointments.

Market Revitalization: The bank’s launch will coincide with the Market Enhancement Programme, ensuring that women in newly built 24-hour markets have the liquidity to stock their stalls.

Kayayei Support: The bank is also expected to have dedicated products for Kayayei (head porters) transitioning into vocational trades.