Access Bank Ranked 2nd in Ghana’s Gender Diversity Index
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
Access Bank (Ghana) PLC has emerged as one of the top performers in boardroom gender diversity in Ghana, securing the second position in the 2025 Ghana Board Diversity Index. The Bank achieved 44% female representation on its board, significantly above the national average of 25%, according to the latest report by The Boardroom Africa in partnership with the Ghana Stock Exchange.
The annual index evaluates female participation across boards and senior leadership roles among all 36 listed companies in Ghana. Access Bank’s ranking places it in the “Gender Champions” category, reserved for organisations with at least 30% women on their boards. Only 39% of Ghana’s listed firms meet this benchmark, highlighting the significance of Access Bank’s achievement.
In addition to the high overall board representation, 50% of Access Bank’s Non-Executive Directors are women. The Bank also distinguishes itself with a Woman Board Chair, Ms. Ama Sarpong Bawuah, and a Woman Chief Operating Officer, reinforcing a commitment to inclusion at the highest levels of leadership.
“Our diversity agenda is central to our culture and strategy. Companies that reflect the diversity of their markets are better positioned to drive innovation, sustainability, and long-term value creation,” Ms. Bawuah stated.
The Managing Director of Access Bank Ghana, Ms. Pearl Nkrumah, emphasised that the recognition reflects a long-standing commitment to inclusive leadership. “Diversity is not just a metric for us; it is a strategic imperative. Female representation at leadership levels strengthens governance, broadens perspectives, and enhances decision-making across the Bank,” she said.
Despite a modest 1% increase in women’s board representation nationally compared to 2024, the pace of progress remains slow. The report notes that 61% of listed companies are still below the 30% diversity benchmark, and 14% have no women on their boards. In this context, Access Bank’s performance serves as a leading example for other firms seeking to strengthen governance through gender inclusivity.
The report also shows that companies chaired by women are nearly twice as likely to achieve the 30% diversity threshold, further underscoring the impact of strong female leadership. Access Bank continues to support women internally and externally through leadership training, mentorship programs, strategic recruitment, and empowerment initiatives, ensuring a pipeline of future female leaders across the Bank and the communities it serves.
Operating in 23 African countries and beyond, Access Bank PLC remains committed to sustainable business practices, delivering value to clients, and promoting inclusive growth across all sectors of its operations.
