A Former 2^nd Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Mr. Emmanuel Asiedu Mante, who was one the key personalities that developed the rural banking concept has been honored at the 4^th Rural Banking Excellence Awards in Koforidua by the Association of Rural Banks.

Described as a rural banking encyclopedia, Mr. Asiedu Mante played a very critical role in the establishment and sustenance of the activities of the rural banking industry in the country and has a book titled ‘Rural Banking in Ghana’ to his credit.

To show appreciation for his leadership, direction, and commitment to the industry, the National Association of Rural Banks, presented a citation in his honor with portions of it bringing to the fore the critical role he has played for the industry over the years.

In the citation presented to him, he sacrificed his precious time and energy in researching to strengthen a novelty in banking. His attention, his devotion, and commitment to the banking scene were skewed toward the growth and sustenance of rural banks. His keen interest led him to serve on the boards of RCBs where he provided direction and quality leadership. He provided leadership to ARB Apex Bank PLC and brought solutions to its early establishment.

In his address to express his appreciation after receiving the award, Mr. Asiedu Mante observed that he is filled with so much joy that what started as an experiment in 1976 at Agona Nyakrom in the Central Region has yielded many fruits and risen to 147 after 46 years.

“I am excited to be a living witness to the many fruits this hard work has borne, which has culminated in the creation of tens of thousands of jobs in the rural economy of the country. Through the financial Intermediation efforts of the RCBs, the rural economy of the country has expanded and remains buoyant,” he said.

Mr. Asiedu Mante, further urged RCBs to do their best in surmounting challenges that may come their way adding that the government has put in several interventions to bridge most gaps in the industry.

He emphasized that there have been many interventions by the Government, Bank of Ghana, ARB Apex Bank, and development partners, aimed at bridging the inadequate ICT infrastructural gap. 

The MCA’s support has brought a major boost to the operations of the RCBs. I am aware that coming directly on the heels of this support, which infused greater efficiency into the operations of the RCBs, is the soon to be launched US$8.0 million Government of Ghana-supported Agency Banking project, which I am told would soon be launched,” he added.