In a significant gesture of corporate support for the Fourth Estate, Access Bank PLC has presented a cheque for GHS 50,000 to the Ashanti Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).
The donation, intended to bolster the construction of the regional Press Center, was made by the bank’s Managing Director, Pearl Nkrumah, during a media engagement event on Tuesday morning.
Receiving the donation on behalf of the association was the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the GJA, Kofi Adu Domfeh.
Commitment:
Ms. Nkrumah noted that the bank has closely monitored the initiatives of the GJA’s new leadership.
This observation prompted the decision to provide a substantial contribution toward ensuring that journalists in the region have a permanent, dedicated facility from which to operate.
“At Access Bank PLC, we are acutely aware of the pivotal role the media plays in our operations and in disseminating information critical to national economic development,” Ms. Nkrumah stated.
She added, “We believe it is essential to support the infrastructure that facilitates your work.”
Ashanti Region:
Explaining the rationale behind the media engagement, Ms. Nkrumah highlighted the Ashanti Region as a “strategic heartbeat” for commerce within the West African sub-region.
She noted that the “enterprising spirit” of the people of Asanteman aligns perfectly with the corporate values of Access Bank.
Key Statistics of Access Bank’s Regional Impact:
Presence: 5 operational branches within Kumasi.
Longevity: 16 years of continuous service to the region.
SME Support: Over 1,000 Small and Medium Enterprises currently served.
“We do not only view the Ashanti Region as a center for culture and tradition but as a highly competitive and strategic business hub,” she emphasized.
Sustainability and SME Growth:
During the session, the MD highlighted several of the bank’s flagship initiatives:
‘Sandals Mall’ Project:
This is sustainability initiative that recycles used car tires into footwear for school children.
Ms. Nkrumah confirmed the project’s success and the bank’s commitment to its continuation.
SME Capacity Building:
For over a decade, the bank has provided SMEs with a combination of credit facilities, technical training, and capacity-building workshops to foster business expansion.
Cyber Security and Robust Banking:
Addressing concerns regarding financial security, Ms. Nkrumah reassured the public that Access Bank has leveraged advanced technology to create a “bulletproof” defense against cyber fraud.
She noted that digital platforms are continuously monitored and updated to protect the investments and cash of their clientele.
Gratitude
Responding on behalf of the GJA and regional news editors, Kofi Adu Domfeh commended the bank for its transparency and proactive engagement with the press.
“When the media is equipped with accurate information regarding corporate operations, the public becomes the ultimate beneficiary,” Mr. Domfeh remarked.
He expressed profound gratitude for the financial support, noting that the GHS 50,000 donation is a major milestone in the realization of the Ashanti Press Center.
“We are grateful that Access Bank recognizes our worth as partners in development and has backed that recognition with this significant contribution,” he concluded.
Source : The Punch / Michael Ofosu-Afriyie
