Ghana Wins Bid to Host ACI World Congress 2026
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
Ghana has secured the hosting rights for the prestigious ACI World Congress 2026, marking a significant milestone for the country’s financial sector and bringing the global financial markets event back to Sub-Saharan Africa for the first time in nearly two decades.
Scheduled for May 2026, the Congress is expected to attract financial market professionals, central bankers, policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders from more than 60 countries. The event will place Ghana at the centre of high-level global discussions on financial markets, regulation, innovation, and cross-border cooperation, while further enhancing the country’s profile as an emerging financial hub on the African continent.
Speaking at the official launch of the Congress in Accra, the First Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Zakari Mumuni, said Ghana’s successful bid reflects increasing international confidence in the country’s financial system and macroeconomic framework.
“Ghana’s selection to host this prestigious event marks a significant milestone for the country and for our financial markets. It is a testament to Ghana’s growing reputation as a stable and credible financial hub,” Dr. Mumuni stated.
He noted that the Bank of Ghana considers the ACI World Congress a strategic opportunity to strengthen Ghana’s financial architecture while deepening engagement with global market players and international institutions. According to him, the Congress will provide a platform for the exchange of ideas, best practices, and policy perspectives that are critical to building resilient and well-functioning financial markets.
“Hosting the Congress provides a unique platform to strengthen our financial infrastructure, deepen international partnerships and showcase Ghana’s progress in global finance. Collaboration between regulators and market participants is essential to maintain trust, promote transparency and advance innovation in our markets,” he said.
Dr. Mumuni added that the central bank remains committed to supporting initiatives that enhance market development, improve regulatory standards, and reinforce confidence among domestic and international investors.
Also speaking at the launch, President of ACI Ghana, Lawrence Osilaja Boampong, said the timing of the Congress is particularly significant, as it coincides with renewed efforts to stabilise the economy and restore investor confidence following recent macroeconomic challenges.
“This is a very important opportunity for Ghana, particularly at a time when the economy is regaining stability. Following the debt restructuring program, we have seen improvements in inflation and relative stability in the currency,” Mr. Boampong noted.
He observed that these developments have sparked renewed interest among international investors seeking opportunities in Ghana and across the wider African region.
“Investors are asking what is happening in Ghana and how they can participate. Hosting the ACI World Congress gives Ghana the visibility it needs on the international stage. It opens the market and creates opportunities for capital inflows, not only into Ghana but across Africa,” he added.
The ACI World Congress is the flagship event of the ACI Financial Markets Association, a global body that represents financial market professionals across treasury, foreign exchange, money markets, and fixed income markets. The Congress serves as a key platform for dialogue, networking, and cooperation among global market participants, while shaping discussions on market standards, ethics, and innovation.
With the hosting rights secured, Ghana becomes only the second African country to host the ACI World Congress and the first to do so in 17 years. The development underscores Ghana’s growing influence in regional and international financial markets and is expected to generate broader benefits, including increased global exposure, stronger investor engagement, and enhanced capacity-building for local market participants.
As preparations begin ahead of the May 2026 event, stakeholders say the Congress presents a unique opportunity for Ghana to showcase its reform efforts, financial market potential, and commitment to playing a leading role in Africa’s integration into the global financial system.
