The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has emphasized that non-interest banking in the country is accessible to everyone and is not associated with any religious belief. The central bank’s clarification comes as part of its effort to ensure inclusivity and promote a broader understanding of ethical finance in Ghana.
Under the new guidelines for Non-Interest Banking, opening or operating a non-interest bank account is entirely optional. Both individuals and businesses are free to participate if they wish, giving consumers more choice in how they manage their finances. The move is designed to expand financial services without imposing any religious or cultural obligations.
To reinforce this inclusivity, the BoG has explicitly prohibited Non-Interest Banking Institutions (NIBIs) from using religious names, symbols, or expressions in their branding or marketing. This ensures that non-interest banking is not perceived as faith-based, allowing everyone to engage with the system without hesitation or confusion.
The central bank also confirmed that customers can hold accounts with non-interest banks alongside conventional banks. Conventional banks offering non-interest products through specialized “windows” must make participation strictly optional, and no customer can be compelled to switch from their current accounts.
The Non-Interest Banking framework, released as an exposure draft on December 9, 2025, is part of BoG’s broader strategy to deepen financial inclusion, support economic growth, and promote ethical finance. Stakeholders have until December 24, 2025, to submit comments before the guidelines are finalized, giving the public an opportunity to shape the future of banking in Ghana.
source: citi newsroom