The Bank of Ghana has announced new minimum capital requirements for microfinance institutions, under revised sector guidelines that take effect from today, January 29, 2026.

Under the new framework, existing microfinance institutions, community banks, and credit unions are required to raise their minimum capital to GH¢50 million by the end of 2026. New entrants into the sector, however, will be required to meet a higher minimum stated capital of GH¢100 million.

As part of the reforms, ARB Apex Bank Limited will be restructured and given an expanded mandate to provide critical centralised banking services to institutions within the sector.

The central bank noted that existing institutions, as well as the Apex Bank, are expected to take the necessary steps to comply with the guidelines and transition into the new regulatory framework, where applicable.

According to the Bank of Ghana, the reforms are intended to address long-standing structural and operational weaknesses in the sector, strengthen stability, and enhance the sector’s contribution to financial inclusion and national development.

The central bank added that minimum capital requirements may be reviewed from time to time, depending on prevailing economic and market conditions.

To ensure a smooth transition, operators have been given several compliance options, including independent recapitalisation, mergers or acquisitions, portfolio transfers to stronger institutions, or a regulated exit through an orderly winding-down process.

Institutions are required to notify the Bank of Ghana of their chosen compliance option by June 30, 2026, and submit evidence of progress by September 30, 2026. Failure to engage the process may attract regulatory sanctions, including restrictions on business activities.