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Reimagining International Trade Finance for Africa's Economic Future
 9th - 13th February, 2026 Banjul, The Gambia

Reimagining International Trade Finance for Africa's Economic Future

9th - 13th February, 2026 Banjul, The Gambia

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ABOUT GHIB

Leading African Trade Finance, Correspondent Banking and Wholesale Banking since 1959.

GHIB is a UK-regulated financial institution with a long and distinguished presence in the City of London, one of the world’s leading financial centres. The bank serves a broad spectrum of clients, including financial institutions, sovereign states, parastatals, corporates, SMEs, and the African diaspora.

GHIB is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority (“PRA”) and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the PRA. GHIB is a public limited company incorporated in England and Wales with company registration number 03468216. GHIB’s registered office is at Regina House, 67 Cheapside, London, EC2V 6AZ, United Kingdom. Further information about us is available at www.ghanabank.co.uk.

GHIB occupies a unique position in the market. Leveraging deep expertise in African economies and strong international correspondent banking relationships, it provides tailored financing solutions to bridge global markets with African opportunities.

Trade Finance is GHIB’s core business, complemented by other services including Correspondent and Corporate Banking, and Retail & Business Banking (SMEs) services. This integrated offering enables it to deliver bespoke solutions to support trade in Africa and foster sustainable growth for clients and the markets it serves.

For more information about GHIB, its products and services, please visit https://www.ghanabank.co.uk.

Providing effective Global #Tradebridges for Africa, since 1959

Transactional Banking Solutions:

Deposit-protected accounts in major global currencies.

Investment Solutions:

Call accounts and fixed deposits in key currencies.

Lending and Capital Solutions:

Credit structuring for liquidity unlocking.

Trade Finance Solutions

From letters of credit to trade credit.

Payment Solutions:

Global payment capabilities across markets.

Treasury Solutions:

Includes Chinese Yuan (CNY) and UAE dirhams (AED) solutions.

Footprints

GHIB operates from its Head Office in London, with a representative office in Accra and covers East and Central Africa on a cross-border basis.

Social Impact

GHIB contributes to the philanthropic work of the Ghana International Foundation, with a particular emphasis on improving educational access in underserved regions.

Leadership

The Board is composed of experienced leaders from sectors relevant to GHIB and is approved by the Prudential Regulation Authority. For more information about the Board, please visit www.ghanabank.co.uk/about-us/

Strong Partnerships for Africa around the world

GHIB is a key correspondent bank in sub-Saharan Africa. Our London base and African focus position us as a preferred intermediary for the continent’s banks.

Access for African Sovereigns, Corporates, and Businesses

GHIB offers access to global markets by leveraging on the UK’s financial hub from the City of London. Our African expertise makes GHIB a preferred trade partner for growing with Africa. 

GHIB Shareholders

  • Bank of Ghana
  • GCB Bank
  • Social Security & National Insurance Trust
  • Agricultural Development Bank
  • SIC Insurance

Click Here to Learn More About GHIB

ABOUT AFRITRADEX

Unlocking Africa's Trade Potential, Structuring Solutions for Impact

GHIB AfriTradeX is Ghana International Bank plc’s flagship trade finance forum, created to confront one of the most pressing constraints on Africa’s economic progress: the trade finance gap. Building on GHIB’s long-standing role as a bridge between African markets and international financial systems, GHIB AfriTradeX brings together policy makers, banks, corporates and development institutions to move the conversation from ambition to execution.

Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its trade journey. With a population exceeding 1.4 billion, vast natural resources and a growing entrepreneurial base, the continent holds the fundamentals of a global trade powerhouse. Yet this potential remains constrained by an estimated US$88 billion trade finance shortfall. At GHIB, we view trade finance not simply as a banking product, but as a development catalyst. Closing this gap unlocks growth, supports jobs, deepens regional integration and strengthens economic resilience.

MORE ABOUT GHIB AFRITRADEX 2026

GHIB AfriTradeX Forum 2026 is GHIB’s platform to address this challenge head-on.

From 9th – 13th February 2026, we convene in Banjul, The Gambia, for a weeklong forum designed to spotlight/structure solutions, foster collaboration, and drive action. The theme— “Reimagining International Trade Finance for Africa’s Economic Future” —reflects our conviction that policy, banks and DFIs are uniquely positioned to de-risk transactions, unlock capital, and catalyse private sector participation.

GHIB AfriTradeX 2026 will feature:

• African Trade Leaders’ Dialogue with central banks, DFIs, and trade leaders shaping the future

• Trade Finance Masterclass led by GHIB’s global faculty on tradecraft, compliance, and structuring.

• Trade Clinic providing practical guidance to help stakeholders navigate trade-related challenges.

We will explore:

• How banks can structure risk participation and credit enhancement

• How trade finance can accelerate industrialisation, value addition, and African growth

• How compliance and innovation can be embedded in Africa’s trade architecture

GHIB’s position is clear: we do not exit Africa—we invest in it. As global banks retreat, GHIB remains one of the few bridges to international financial solutions. We upskill our partners, structure bespoke deals, and stay the course—because we believe in Africa’s future.

GHIB AfriTradeX Forum 2026 is a platform for:

• Ideas that challenge the status quo

• Partnerships that unlock capital

• Solutions that deliver impact

We invite:

• Financial institutions and policy banks

• Exporters, processors, and trade-focused SMEs

• Regulators, trade attachés, and development agencies

GHIB AfriTradeX 2026: Turning barriers into bridges for Africa’s future

Scrolling Marquee
Reimagining International Trade Finance for Africa’s Economic Future Reimagining International Trade Finance for Africa’s Economic Future

THE IMPACT OF GHIB AFRITRADEX's MASTERCLASS

Empowering Africa's Trade Finance Operators

Africa’s trade finance ecosystem is evolving rapidly — driven by the need for greater access, stronger compliance, and bold innovation. Yet many operators, especially those in banks and corporates, continue to face persistent challenges in navigating the complexities of international trade finance. The GHIB AfriTradeX Forum 2026, hosted by Ghana International Bank plc (GHIB),
offers a transformative solution: hands-on, expert-led masterclasses designed to upskill Africa’s trade finance professionals for the future.

These masterclasses are not academic seminars. They are immersive, practical training sessions delivered by GHIB’s globally experienced faculty, each with over 40 years of real-world expertise in trade finance structuring, compliance, and innovation. Participants gain direct exposure to the tools, standards, and strategies that drive successful trade finance operations across global
markets.

Why These Masterclasses Matter

Bridging the
Knowledge Gap

African banks and corporates operate in high-risk, high-opportunity environments. Yet limited exposure to global trade finance standards — such as UCP600, ISBP645, and INCOTERMS can hinder deal origination and execution. GHIB’s masterclasses demystify these frameworks, enabling participants to apply them confidently in daily operations.


Strengthening Compliance and Risk Management

Trade finance is increasingly compliance-heavy, with growing scrutiny around AML, sanctions, and fraud mitigation. The masterclasses provide practical guidance on building robust compliance systems, assessing risk, and structuring transactions that meet international regulatory expectations — critical for maintaining correspondent relationships and accessing global capital.

Unlocking Deal Structuring Capabilities

From documentary credits to structured commodity finance, GHIB’s masterclasses equip participants with the skills to structure bespoke trade deals. This is especially valuable for banks and corporates seeking to finance imports, exports, or value-added processing in sectors like agribusiness, energy, and manufacturing.


Driving Institutional Confidence and Capacity

Participants return to their organisations with enhanced confidence, sharper tradecraft, and a clear understanding of how to originate, process, and monitor trade finance transactions — translating into better client service, stronger portfolios, and improved profitability.

Building a Pan-African Network of Practitioners

The masterclasses also serve as a platform for peer learning and networking. Participants engage with colleagues from across the continent, sharing insights, challenges, and solutions — fostering a community of practice that extends beyond the forum.

Meet our speakers

Speakers

Governor Buah Saidy
Governor Buah Saidy
Governor, Central Bank of The Gambia
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Governor Buah Saidy

Governor, Central Bank of The Gambia

Dr. Buah Saidy is the Governor of the Central Bank of The Gambia, a position he assumed on October 1, 2020. A seasoned economist, he brings extensive international experience in economic management, fiscal policy, research, statistics, and public finance.

Mr. Saidy began his career at the Central Bank of The Gambia in 1981 as a clerk and steadily rose through the ranks to become Director of the Economic Research Department in 2010. His distinguished career includes serving as a research economist at the Bank, a senior advisor at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington, DC, and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs.

He was recently elected Chairman of the Association of African Central Banks, reflecting his leadership and influence in regional financial governance. As Governor, Mr. Saidy continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening The Gambia’s financial system and advancing economic policy across Africa.

Dean Adansi
Hon. Seedy Keita
Minister of Finance & Economic Affairs, The Gambia
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Hon. Seedy Keita

Minister of Finance & Economic Affairs, The Gambia

Mr. Seedy Keita Mr. Seedy Keita serves as the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs of The Gambia. He previously served as Minister for Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment, following an extensive international career in finance and economic management. From 1999 to 2020, he held senior roles at the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD), the private sector arm of the Islamic Development Bank, rising to Director of Finance. He also served as Deputy Director in the Treasury of IFAD, overseeing liquidity and funding operations.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Keita worked at the Accountant General’s Department and The Gambia Civil Aviation Authority, advancing to Chief Accountant before joining a World Bank‑funded project. A Chartered Certified Accountant (FCCA) and Chartered Management Accountant (ACMA), he holds double Master’s degrees in Business Administration and Financial Management from Edinburgh Business School, Herriot‑Watt University, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Strategy from Saïd Business School, University of Oxford. He is also a qualified Treasurer (AMCT) and Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA), with executive education from Harvard, Cambridge, and London Business School.

Dean Adansi
Dean Adansi
Chief Executive Officer (GHIB)
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Dean Adansi

Chief Executive Officer (GHIB)

Dean Adansi is the Chief Executive Officer of GHIB and the Convener of the GHIB AfriTradeX Forum. He assumed the role of CEO with a mandate to lead the Bank’s transformation and strategic repositioning. Dean has earned a formidable reputation in the City of London for steering GHIB back to profitability, revitalising its brand, and reclaiming its heritage as a leading Pan-African-focused UK trade bank. Under his leadership, GHIB has undergone a significant transformation, aligning its operations with growth and innovation. With over 30 years of experience in banking, Dean has held senior leadership roles across major financial institutions in the United States, Europe, and Africa. His career spans blue-chip banking houses, where he has consistently driven performance and strategic growth. Dean is a strong advocate for capitalising and scaling trade finance institutions as a catalyst for Africa’s economic development. Prior to joining GHIB, he held senior roles at Wells Fargo.

Dean Adansi
Raymond Sambou
Dep CEO & Chief Operating Officer (GHIB)
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Raymond Sambou

Dep CEO & Chief Operating Officer (GHIB)

Raymond Sambou is Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer of Ghana International Bank plc (GHIB). He joined GHIB in 2016 as General Manager, Finance and Administration and was later appointed to the Board as an Executive Director. A driven and focused senior banking executive specialising in management of banking technology, banking operations; operational risk management; and internal financial controls, Raymond offers near 32 years of banking experience. He has worked in a number of countries around the world as Country Head of Operations / Service Delivery. His career of almost 32 years includes a 22 year period with the Standard Chartered Bank Group. Of the almost 32 years, at least 20 years’ experience is in London, United Kingdom, where he was Africa Region Y2K manager initially, and in later years Head, Finance Operational Risk and Controls for Standard Chartered Bank Group. During that time, he was the accountable owner for the Group’s Financial Controls Policies and Procedures globally. Raymond has successfully delivered key strategic results, projects and programmes within a number of roles throughout his banking career. He has extensive experience with a truly robust skill set lending himself to be accountable as Executive Director responsible for GHIB's internal operations.

Dean Adansi
Richard Agbenu
Chief Commercial Officer (GHIB)
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Richard Agbenu

Chief Commercial Officer

Richard Agbenu serves as Chief Commercial Officer at Ghana International Bank (GHIB), overseeing the Bank’s wholesale business, including Corporate & Institutional Banking and Treasury. With over 25 years of experience across Pan-African and international financial institutions, Richard is a recognized thought leader in African trade finance. He leads a diverse team dedicated to advancing GHIB’s 65-year legacy and is focused on positioning the Bank’s trade business as best-in-class across the continent, aligned with its strategic growth ambitions.

Subuola Abraham
Subuola Abraham
Head of Compliance & MLRO (GHIB)
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Subuola Abraham

Head of Compliance & MLRO (GHIB)

Subuola Abraham is the Head of Compliance and MLRO for Ghana International Bank (GHIB) and has been with the bank since September 2024. Prior to joining GHIB, Subuola was the Group Chief Compliance Officer for Guaranty Trust Bank from 2014 to 2021 and prior to that, the Group Chief Compliance Officer for United Bank for Africa. In both of these roles, Subuola's oversight spanned 19 African countries, London and New York. Subuola started her Compliance journey with Citibank in London then moving on to Pershing Securities and later ABN AMRO where she was the Assistant Director for the EMEA Regions. Subuola is a Barrister of the Nigerian Supreme Court in Nigeria and a Solicitor of England and Wales. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. Subuola has sat on the boards of various organisations as a Non-Executive Director within the Financial Services, Education and Integrated Services space and is currently on the Global Advisory Board of the International Compliance Association.

Sireh Jallow
Dr. Abdoulie Sireh Jallow
First Deputy Governor, Central Bank of The Gambia
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Dr. Abdoulie Sireh Jallow

First Deputy Governor, Central Bank of The Gambia

Dr. Abdoulie Sireh Jallow is the First Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of The Gambia, appointed in May 2022. He is a seasoned development economist with over 25 years of experience across government, multilateral institutions, and international development.

He previously held senior roles at The Gambia’s Ministry of Finance, the Office of the President, UNDP (serving in several African countries), and the Islamic Development Bank, where he worked on development finance and country partnership strategies.

Dr. Jallow holds a PhD in Economics from McGill University, an MA from Boston University, and a BSc from Fourah Bay College. His expertise includes macroeconomic policy, development finance, and regional integration.

Paul Mendy
Dr. Paul J.Mendy
Second Deputy Governor, Central Bank of The Gambia
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Dr. Paul J.Mendy

Second Deputy Governor, Central Bank of The Gambia

Dr. Paul J. Mendy is the Second Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of The Gambia. He is a seasoned financial sector professional with decades of experience in banking regulation, supervision, and financial sector development.

He previously served at the Central Bank of The Gambia in senior supervisory roles and later as Director of Financial Sector and Payment Systems at WAIFEM in Nigeria. Dr. Mendy holds a BA in Economics (University of Leeds), an MBA in International Banking and Finance (University of Birmingham), and a PhD in Finance Management.

Dean Adansi
Stephen Ahwayki Abban
CEO, Access Bank Gambia
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Stephen Ahwayki Abban

CEO, Access Bank Gambia

Mr. Stephen Ahwakyi Abban is the Country Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank (Gambia) Limited, appointed on October 1, 2021. With over two decades of experience in banking, he has built a career that bridges Information Technology and Core Banking, driving digital transformation and retail banking growth across leading financial institutions.

He began his career as IT Manager at Bank of Africa, Ghana, where he established the bank’s IT infrastructure and spearheaded digital innovation. He later held senior leadership roles at Guaranty Trust Bank Ghana Limited and Access Bank Ghana, leading strategic initiatives that strengthened retail and transaction banking.

A recognized thought leader in financial inclusion and digital innovation, Mr. Abban has spoken at numerous international conferences and enhanced his executive expertise through advanced leadership programs at Columbia Business School, Harvard Business School, MIT, and the Institute of Management. He holds degrees from the University of Ghana and the University of Scotland, along with a Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Business from the Emeritus Institute of Management.

Marcus
Marcus Wade
Chairman & CEO of the Axendo Group
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Marcus Wade

Governor of The Bank of Ghana

Marcus Wade is a highly accomplished trade finance specialist and a leading authority on structuring trade finance solutions across the African continent. With nearly three decades of experience, he began his career in the City of London in the 1990s before progressing to senior roles including establishing and leading a specialist trade finance business for one of the world’s largest commodity trading companies. As Chairman & CEO of the Axendo Group which he founded in 2014, Marcus has overseen the delivery of more than USD 20 billion in funding across the Middle East and Africa. He leads the Axendo team in building the firm into the partner of choice for emergingmarkets trade finance, underpinned by deep structuring expertise, disciplined execution, and a commitment to supporting sustainable commercial growth across Africa and beyond.

Lord Boateng
Lord Paul Boateng
Senior Independent Director and Chair of REMCO (GHIB)
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Lord Paul Boateng

Senior Independent Director and Chair of REMCO (GHIB)

The Rt Hon the Lord Boateng PC DL was brought up in Ghana and the U.K. and was educated at the Accra Academy, Apsley Grammar School and the University of Bristol.

He has qualified both as a Solicitor and Barrister. He was MP for Brent South 1987-2005 and served in various Ministerial roles in the U.K. Government between 1997 and 2005 joining the Cabinet in 2002 as Chief Secretary to the Treasury. He was the U.K. High Commissioner to South Africa between 2005-2009 and was elevated to the Peerage in 2010 as Lord Boateng of Akyem and Wembley.

He currently serves on the International Relations and Defence Committee of the House of Lords and on a number of Commercial and Philanthropic Boards in the U.K., Africa and Switzerland in the Agriculture Water Utility and Development sectors.

A Methodist Lay Preacher he Chairs the Anglican Archbishops Commission on Racial Justice. He is Chancellor of the University of Greenwich.

Subuola Abraham
Sundeep Bhandari
Chair of Board Risk Committee (GHIB)
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Sundeep Bhandari

Chair of Board Risk Committee (GHIB)

Sundeep, is currently an Independent Non-Executive Director with Ghana International Bank, PNB International and British Arab Commercial Bank, Chairing the Board Risk and Compliance Committee. He is also the Senior Independent Director at PNBIL. In addition, he is Chairman of Three Pins Capital, a fund based in UAE. He is a Trustee with the charity Inspire; innovative charity committed to transforming young futures through promoting social mobility and raising aspirations among young people. Vice Chair, Governor at Stanmore College. In addition, Sundeep is an advisor to Vastmindz is democratising access to healthcare by making it more accessible and affordable to everyone around the world, through its AI-driven technology.

Sundeep is also a magistrate for England and Wales.

He previously enjoyed both a domestic and international career with Standard Chartered Bank and Barclays, working in London, Singapore, Mumbai, Hong Kong and Dubai. Formerly, Managing Director, Co-Head of Wholesale Banking and Global Markets, South Asia, and Northeast Asia respectively, the two largest revenue generating regions for the Group, Global Head of Internal Audit and prior to that he was the Group Chief Credit Officer based in Singapore and London.

Member International Banks Working Party (Financial Services Faculty), ICAEW

Born in N. Ireland, married to Sangeeta who is a yoga therapist and teacher, they have with two children and live in North London.

Mr. Farihan Alhassan
Farihan Alhassan
Managing Director, GCB Bank PLC
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Farihan Alhassan

Managing Director, GCB Bank PLC

Farihan Alhassan is a seasoned financial specialist with 20 years of banking experience. He most recently led the Business & Commercial Clients Unit at Stanbic Bank Ghana, driving strategic growth and performance. He began his career with a notable milestone—becoming the youngest regional manager at Barclays Bank (now Absa)—and later served as Head of Retail and Distribution, known for his people-focused and results-driven leadership. At Stanbic, Farihan earned recognition for his strategic vision and customer-first approach. His appointment at GCB Bank is seen as a move to strengthen the Bank’s leadership and market position. He brings deep expertise in retail and business banking, with a strong track record in business development, operational management, credit and risk oversight, and team empowerment. Respected for his dynamic leadership, Farihan is committed to shaping Ghana’s banking sector and supporting business growth nationwide.

Julius Karuga
Julius Karuga
Chief Trade Finance Officer, African Development Bank Group
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Julius Karuga

Chief Trade Finance Officer, African Development Bank Group

Julius Karuga is a seasoned banking and finance professional with over 20 years of experience in banking and finance (development finance, commercial banking, investment and trade finance) across various African regions. He currently serves as Chief Trade Finance Officer at the African Development Bank Group, where he is responsible for the origination and execution of trade finance solutions in collaboration with financial institutions and commodity-focused partners. His work focuses on strengthening access to trade liquidity, enhancing market resilience through derisking solutions.

Prior to assuming this role in 2024, Julius held progressively senior positions within AfDB, including Principal Investment Officer and Senior Investment Officer, during which he led and executed numerous financing transactions in various financial sector markets on the continent. Earlier in his career, he held key roles in trade credit and investment risk mitigation and insurance solutions at a multilateral trade credit agency, and also gained foundational experience within East Africa’s commercial banking sector. Julius has contributed to several highimpact initiatives supporting the development of the financial sector in Africa, such as climatealigned investments, and capital mobilisation across the continent through AfDB-led partnerships and strategic transactions. He is recognized for his expertise in structuring financial solutions to challenges faced by development finance and commercial banking institutions in Africa —capabilities that continue to shape his leadership in advancing Africa’s trade and development agenda.Julius holds Master’s Degree in Economics, underpinning his deep analytical and policy-oriented approach to development finance.

Linda Wayoe
Linda Wayoe
Deputy Head of Payment Services
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Linda Wayoe

Deputy Head of Payment Services

Linda is the Deputy Head of Payment Services at Ghana International Bank, an award-winning Chartered Banker, and a member of the Chartered Banker Institute UK. She brings extensive experience spanning Banking Operations, Corporate Affairs, Business Strategy and Business Transformation. Linda holds an Executive MBA in Banking and Finance and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and has completed the Executive Leadership Programme at Oxford University’s Saïd Business School. A passionate advocate for financial innovation, she actively contributes to industry dialogue on inclusive finance and digital transformation, including cross-border payments and diaspora flows. Her work supports the bank’s mission to deliver secure, efficient, and forward-thinking payment solutions that seamlessly connect African markets to the global financial ecosystem.

John Sumailah
Chairman of the Board of Directors, Rokel Commercial Bank (SL)
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John Sumailah

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Rokel Commercial Bank (SL)

Mr John Sumailah is an experienced strategic and managerial leader with over 25 years in administrative management and inter-agency coordination. He has worked with various government ministries, development partners, UN agencies, and civil society organizations. Mr Sumailah has extensive expertise in aligning programs and projects with national priorities, results-based management, performance reporting, and civil service reform. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Philosophy from the University of Sierra Leone and has completed several managerial training programs, both locally and internationally. He is an Honorary Fellow and a Certified International Professional Manager (FIPU). Mr Sumailah is knowledgeable in knowledge management, innovation, and public sector transformation. He has a proven track record of building strategic alliances, advocating for institutional priorities, and ensuring effective stakeholder engagement. His core competencies include leadership, integrity, communication, planning, accountability, team building, and continuous professional development.

Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin (FPMA, HCIB, COOR)
Managing Director & CEO, Rokel Commercial Bank (SL) Ltd
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Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin (FPMA, HCIB, COOR)

Managing Director & CEO, Rokel Commercial Bank (SL) Ltd

Dr Walton Ekundayo Gilpin (FPMA, HCIB, COOR) is the Managing Director & CEO of Rokel Commercial Bank (SL) Ltd, bringing over 30 years of international banking and finance experience. He has occupied advisory roles with the Commonwealth Secretariat, contributing to financial initiatives and reforms across over 40 countries spanning Asia, the Caribbean, the South Pacific, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. His professional engagements include collaboration with leading multilateral institutions such as the IMF, European Union, African Development Bank, and the World Bank on banking, macroeconomic policy, and public finance management. His core competencies include Public Finance Management, Risk Management, Financial Programming, and Debt Management Assessment Framework (DMAF) analysis. Dr Gilpin is a seasoned banker, executive leader, and philanthropist, and has received multiple Executive Leadership Awards in recognition of his contributions to the financial sector and economic development.

GHIB LEADERS

The Executive and Senior Management

Dean Adansi
Dean Adansi
Chief Executive Officer (GHIB)
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Dean Adansi

Chief Executive Officer(GHIB)

Dean Adansi is the Chief Executive Officer of GHIB and the Convener of the GHIB AfriTradeX Forum. He assumed the role of CEO with a mandate to lead the Bank’s transformation and strategic repositioning. Dean has earned a formidable reputation in the City of London for steering GHIB back to profitability, revitalising its brand, and reclaiming its heritage as a leading Pan-African-focused UK trade bank. Under his leadership, GHIB has undergone a significant transformation, aligning its operations with growth and innovation. With over 30 years of experience in banking, Dean has held senior leadership roles across major financial institutions in the United States, Europe, and Africa. His career spans blue-chip banking houses, where he has consistently driven performance and strategic growth. Dean is a strong advocate for capitalising and scaling trade finance institutions as a catalyst for Africa’s economic development. Prior to joining GHIB, he held senior roles at Wells Fargo.

Dean Adansi
Raymond Sambou
Dep CEO & Chief Operating Officer
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Raymond Sambou

Dep CEO & Chief Operating Officer

Raymond Sambou is Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer of Ghana International Bank plc (GHIB). He joined GHIB in 2016 as General Manager, Finance and Administration and was later appointed to the Board as an Executive Director. A driven and focused senior banking executive specialising in management of banking technology, banking operations; operational risk management; and internal financial controls, Raymond offers near 32 years of banking experience. He has worked in a number of countries around the world as Country Head of Operations / Service Delivery. His career of almost 32 years includes a 22 year period with the Standard Chartered Bank Group. Of the almost 32 years, at least 20 years’ experience is in London, United Kingdom, where he was Africa Region Y2K manager initially, and in later years Head, Finance Operational Risk and Controls for Standard Chartered Bank Group. During that time, he was the accountable owner for the Group’s Financial Controls Policies and Procedures globally. Raymond has successfully delivered key strategic results, projects and programmes within a number of roles throughout his banking career. He has extensive experience with a truly robust skill set lending himself to be accountable as Executive Director responsible for GHIB's internal operations.

Dean Adansi
Richard Agbenu
Chief Commercial Officer
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Richard Agbenu

Chief Commercial Officer

Richard Agbenu serves as Chief Commercial Officer at Ghana International Bank (GHIB), overseeing the Bank’s wholesale business, including Corporate & Institutional Banking and Treasury. With over 25 years of experience across Pan-African and international financial institutions, Richard is a recognized thought leader in African trade finance. He leads a diverse team dedicated to advancing GHIB’s 65-year legacy and is focused on positioning the Bank’s trade business as best-in-class across the continent, aligned with its strategic growth ambitions.

Dean Adansi
Alex Cole
Chief Financial Officer
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Alex Cole

Chief Financial Officer

Alex Cole is Chief Financial Officer of [Ghana International Bank plc (GHIB)], responsible for the leadership, direction, and management of the Finance and Regulatory Reporting departments. A qualified Chartered Accountant (ACA), Alex brings strong financial expertise and strategic oversight to the Bank’s operations. Alex was appointed to his current role in November 2018, having joined GHIB in September 2015. Prior to GHIB, Alex worked in the banking and capital markets sector in London where he served as an auditor at Deloitte. His experience spans financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and strategic financial planning, making him a key contributor to GHIB’s continued growth and stability.

Dean Adansi
Christos Gabrielides
Chief Risk Officer
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Christos Gabrielides

Chief Risk Officer

Christos Gabrielides is Chief Risk Officer of [Ghana International Bank plc (GHIB)] and has been a holder of PRA and FCA approved Senior Manager Roles of middle sized but fast-growing banks for over 15 years. Christos is a highly experienced banking professional with a career in Treasury management and Risk management. His expertise which he has developed throughout his banking career spans across market, credit, operational, compliance, financial, and prudential risk. He is highly skilled in designing and implementing effective Risk Management Frameworks tailored to institutional risk profiles and strategic objectives. Throughout his career, Christos has successfully developed Risk Appetite Statements, Management Information Systems, and governance structures that ensure risk levels remain aligned with business goals. His leadership reflects a strong commitment to regulatory integrity and sound risk culture.

Ophelia
Ophelia Attobrah
Chief Banking Officer
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Ophelia Attobrah

Chief Banking Officer

Ophelia Attobrah has served as Chief Banking Officer at Ghana International Bank plc (GHIB) since June 2019. In this role, she oversees Retail and Business Banking, Correspondent Banking & Client Onboarding, and Complaints Management. Her leadership is pivotal in driving business growth and delivering client services aligned with GHIB’s strategic goals and regulatory standards. With over 35 years of banking experience across North America, Europe, and Africa, Ophelia brings deep industry expertise and a forward-thinking approach to innovation. Her ability to navigate complex regulatory environments while achieving sustainable business outcomes has made her a key contributor to GHIB’s ongoing transformation. Ophelia is currently spearheading the development of a bespoke Retail Banking proposition and scaling up the Business Banking revenue stream, reinforcing GHIB’s commitment to evolving its client offerings and expanding its market presence.

Janet Mbu
Janet Mbu
General Counsel & Company Secretary
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Janet Mbu

General Counsel & Company Secretary

Janet Mbu is General Counsel and Company Secretary at [Ghana International Bank plc (GHIB)] where she leads the Legal and Company Secretariat team in delivering legal risk management and corporate governance services across the Bank. Janet is a City-trained lawyer with over 20 years of legal and corporate governance experience across the UK and Nigeria. Her expertise spans regulatory compliance, corporate law, and governance and she plays a key role in ensuring the Bank’s legal and governance standards align with international best practices. Janet leads the team to be a critical enabler of the GHIB value proposition, providing a legal steer across African countries, the UK and other jurisdictions in which the Bank operates. Janet has held leadership positions in similar functions in other organisations.

Kwame Sarpong
Kwame Sarpong
General Manager, Operations
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Kwame Sarpong

General Manager, Operations

Kwame Sarpong is General Manager of Operations at [Ghana International Bank plc (GHIB).] Kwame assumed his current role in August 2019 and has been with GHIB for over 20 years, contributing significantly to its growth and transformation. He is responsible for driving operational efficiency, managing change, and ensuring the timely delivery of business objectives. Kwame plays a strategic role in anticipating, developing, and deploying solutions to enhance the Bank’s operating processes. His extensive experience in banking operations is complemented by a strong background in process improvement and strategic execution. Prior to joining GHIB, Kwame worked with Ghana Commercial Bank, where he gained foundational experience in banking operations and customer service.

Gillian Heggs
Gillian Heggs
Head of People, Culture & Communications
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Gillian Heggs

Head of People, Culture & Communications

Gillian Heggs is Head of People, Culture, and Communications at Ghana International Bank plc (GHIB). In this role Gillian leads the process of embedding GHIB’s R.I.C.E. values: Respect; Integrity; Collaboration; Excellence, within the Bank's culture. A seasoned Human Resources professional, Gillian brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record of success within the banking sector. She is known for her strategic leadership and deep understanding of HR principles and banking regulations, which she leverages to develop commercially sound and people-centric HR strategies. Prior to joining GHIB, Gillian served as Head of Human Resources at UBA UK, Diamond Bank UK and C.Hoare & Co, where she played a pivotal role in driving organisational change to produce high-performing teams, enhancing employee engagement, and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Her commitment to excellence and her ability to align HR practices with business goals have made her a respected leader in the industry.

Subuola Abraham
Subuola Abraham
Head of Compliance & MLRO
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Subuola Abraham

Head of Compliance & MLRO

Subuola Abraham is the Head of Compliance and MLRO for Ghana International Bank (GHIB) and has been with the bank since September 2024. Prior to joining GHIB, Subuola was the Group Chief Compliance Officer for Guaranty Trust Bank from 2014 to 2021 and prior to that, the Group Chief Compliance Officer for United Bank for Africa. In both of these roles, Subuola's oversight spanned 19 African countries, London and New York. Subuola started her Compliance journey with Citibank in London then moving on to Pershing Securities and later ABN AMRO where she was the Assistant Director for the EMEA Regions. Subuola is a Barrister of the Nigerian Supreme Court in Nigeria and a Solicitor of England and Wales. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. Subuola has sat on the boards of various organisations as a Non-Executive Director within the Financial Services, Education and Integrated Services space and is currently on the Global Advisory Board of the International Compliance Association.

Baafuor Abankwa
Baafuor Abankwa
Divisional Head, Corporate & Institutional Banking
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Baafuor Abankwa

Divisional Head, Corporate & Institutional Banking

Baafuor Abankwa serves as Divisional Head, Corporate and Institutional Banking at GHIB. Prior, he served as Head- Client Coverage Africa, leading efforts that led to significant expansions in GHIB’s client portfolio outside core markets in Guinea, Nigeria , and East Africa. Baafuor is part of the leadership cadre driving GHIB revenue strategy, by reimaging solutions and value delivery models. Baafuor’s division is focused on delivering the most compelling transactional banking , trade finance, treasury, advisory and lending solutions to African markets. Baafuor has advanced management studies degrees, including from the Saiid Business School at Oxford and is a respected thought-leader in African trade finance.

Hueggert Annan
Hueggert Annan
Head, Client Coverage Africa & Country Representative, Ghana
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Hueggert Annan

Head, Client Coverage Africa & Country Representative, Ghana

Hueggert Annan leads the Bank’s client coverage across Africa, with the responsibility of originating, sustaining, and deepening key relationships that are central to the Bank’s value proposition. A consummate banker with over 20 years of experience in corporate and institutional banking on the continent, she brings deep expertise and strategic insight, particularly in financial institutions and trade finance.Hueggert is at the forefront of the Bank’s efforts to scale up and deliver solutions that help bridge Africa’s trade finance gap.

Mattew Parris
Matthew Parris
Head Trade Sales & Financial Institutions
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Matthew Parris

Head Trade Sales & Financial Institutions

Matthew joined GHIB (formerly Ghana Commercial Bank) in 1982. Over the years, he has held roles in Customer Services, Global Transfers, and Internal Audit, but found his niche in International Trade Finance in 1998. He served as Deputy Head of the Trade Finance team until 2004, when he was promoted to Head of Department—a position he held until 2018. He was then transferred to the Client Coverage team, where he currently oversees Trade Sales and Financial Institutions. Since 2012, Matthew has delivered annual Trade Finance training courses in Ghana for the bank’s clients across Africa, focusing on the Financial Institutions and Corporate segments.

Jamel Banda
Jamel Banda
Head of Treasury and Capital Markets
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Jamel Banda

Head of Treasury and Capital Markets

Jamel Banda is Head of Treasury and Markets at Ghana International Bank PLC, headquartered in the City of London. He has over 15 years of experience across global markets, corporate banking, and risk, with expertise in trading, funding strategy, and institutional relationship management. He also leads the bank’s engagement with international financial institutions, supporting cross-border liquidity and market access. His work focuses on connecting capital flows between the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa, with a strong track record supporting governments, central banks, and state-owned enterprises. Known for his strategic insight and cross-border perspective, Jamel plays a central role in shaping the bank’s market positioning and institutional engagement. Beyond banking, he is an elected Member of the City of London Corporation, where he serves as a Common Councillor promoting the UK’s financial and professional services sector, Chairing one of the City's committees, as well as Chairing an Independent school Board.

Hueggert Annan
Ebenezer Amarh
Head of Debt Underwriting
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Ebenezer Amarh

Head of Debt Underwriting

Ebenezer Amarh is a proficient credit risk and relationship management professional with 2 decades of international banking and finance experience. Skilled in Project Finance, Structured Trade and Commodity Finance, Sovereign Lending, Financial Institutions, Portfolio and Relationship Management, Treasury, Legal Documentation, Bilateral and Syndicated Loans, Primary and Secondary Risk Participation with good geographical knowledge across multiple African jurisdictions.

AfriTradeX Masterclass

Trade Finance Masterclass

Masterclass Timetable
Bank Guarantees
DC Document Examination
DC Issuance
DOCUMENTERY COLLECTION
QUIZ QUESTIONS

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Join a growing community of leaders, innovators and decision-makers convening at GHIB AfriTradeX 2026 to shape the future of trade finance in Africa.

Register Here

Support

This section includes all the important resources for attendees.

Key Details on Conference

Address: Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center, Banjul, the Gambia

Date: 9th February - 13th February, 2026

Email: GHIBAfriTradeX@ghanabank.co.uk

Phone Number: + 44 020 7653 0350

Please note that calls to this UK number may be subject to standard or international network charges.

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