GHIB–Vista Bank Partnership Unlocks New Trade Finance Pathways for African Businesses

African businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), are set to gain greater access to global markets following a new partnership between Ghana International Bank (GHIB) and Vista Bank Group.

Announced at the CNVERGE ’25 conference in London, the deal makes GHIB the primary correspondent banking partner for Vista Bank operations in Gambia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso, and Guinea. The collaboration aims to address one of the biggest hurdles African businesses face limited access to affordable trade finance and cross-border payment systems.

Through GHIB’s established global relationships, Vista Bank’s clients will be able to access international credit lines, letters of credit, trade guarantees, and foreign exchange services. This access, long out of reach for many African SMEs, is expected to reduce financing bottlenecks, expand export opportunities, and integrate businesses into global supply chains.

“This partnership is about creating real bridges for African enterprises to reach the global financial system,” said Dean Adansi, CEO of GHIB. “For SMEs in particular, this means the chance to secure funding and trade finance that directly supports their growth and competitiveness.”

Vista Bank, which has a strong focus on SME and women-led businesses, said the partnership will provide world-class trade finance solutions to local entrepreneurs across West Africa. “SMEs are the backbone of our economies,” noted Serge Raymond, Managing Director of Vista Bank France. “With GHIB’s support, they will now have the tools to grow beyond local borders.”

The collaboration also reflects a broader continental shift towards financial integration, breaking down traditional barriers between Francophone and Anglophone markets. Analysts say the agreement could serve as a model for other African banks, demonstrating how strategic partnerships can help local businesses overcome international financing barriers.

By connecting regional banks to global capital, GHIB and Vista Bank are not just strengthening their institutions, they are paving the way for African businesses to scale, compete, and thrive internationally.

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