• First National Bank Ghana secures $20 million BII loan to expand MSME lending
  
• Partnership targets wider credit access for MSMEs, key drivers of Ghana’s economy
  
• Deal follows bank’s strong H1 results, including sharp profit and equity gains

First National Bank Ghana said on Thursday it has signed a $20 million loan agreement with British International Investment (BII) to boost lending to small and medium-sized businesses.

The funding aims to improve credit access for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which are seen as a pillar of the Ghanaian economy.

MSMEs account for more than 90% of Ghanaian businesses, contribute 60% to GDP and provide 80% of jobs, according to BII. Despite their importance, they still face limited access to capital, including the long-term financing required for expansion.

Under the new partnership, First National Bank will broaden its support to MSMEs by offering more term loans and working capital, especially to firms looking to recover or grow as the economy remains fragile.

 BII says the agreement underscores its commitment to supporting African businesses that drive inclusive growth, create jobs and strengthen economic resilience. The partnership aims to create new opportunities for entrepreneurs, promote innovation and support sustainable development.

The agreement comes as the Ghanaian bank reports strong financial results for the first half of 2025. According to unaudited statements for the period ended June 30, profit after tax rose to 39.57 million cedis ($3.47 million) from 3.38 million cedis a year earlier. The bank also strengthened its equity base, which increased from 353.73 million cedis in June 2024 to 935.81 million cedis in June 2025. Its loan portfolio also expanded during the period.

SG