News Guide Africa

Tag: Dr Ato Sarpong

  • ADB stages remarkable recovery; records GHS367.2mn profit after tax in 2025

     

    By Adnan Adams Mohammed

     

    Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) PLC has pulled off a stunning financial turnaround, recording GH¢367.2 million historical profit position by the end of 2025.

    According to the bank’s audited summary financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025, the institution recorded a profit after tax of GH¢367.2 million, a massive leap from the GH¢35 million profit recorded in 2024 and the significant GH¢225 million loss before tax seen in the previous cycle.

    ​The recovery is being hailed by industry analysts as a “resurrection,” driven by a successful recapitalization exercise and a sharp focus on recovering non-performing loans (NPLs).

    ​The Turnaround in Numbers

    ​The bank’s total assets grew by 22%, crossing the GH¢17 billion mark. This growth was underpinned by a significant increase in investment securities, which rose from GH¢3.8 billion to GH¢5.0 billion.

    Financial Metric

    2024 (GH¢ ‘000)

    2025 (GH¢ ‘000)

    % Change

    Total Assets

    14,604,777

    17,887,521

    +22.5%

    Deposits from Customers

    12,045,885

    13,220,185

    +9.7%

    Net Interest Income

    723,181

    1,370,246

    +89.5%

    Profit After Tax

    35,061

    367,291

    +947.6%

    Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR)

    (3.15%)

    27.17%

    Recovery

     

    Strategic Pillars of Success

    ​1. The Recapitalization Lifeline

    ​The most critical factor in ADB’s survival was its 2025 recapitalization. Through a successful Rights Issue, the bank addressed its negative Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR). In 2024, the bank’s CAR stood at a precarious (3.15%)—well below regulatory requirements. By the end of 2025, the CAR had surged to 27.17%, providing a solid buffer for future lending.

    ​2. Aggressive Loan Recovery

    ​The bank made significant strides in cleaning up its books. Recoveries from non-performing loans (NPLs) totaled GH¢301.4 million, which, alongside a profit of GH¢367.3 million, helped the bank stabilize its equity position. Although the NPL ratio remains relatively high at 70.53%, it is a marked improvement from the 75.26% seen a year prior.

    ​3. Efficiency and Income Growth

    ​ADB’s core banking operations saw explosive growth. Net interest income nearly doubled, reaching GH¢1.37 billion. This suggests that despite the focus on recovery, the bank’s lending and investment strategies are yielding much higher returns than in previous years.

    ​Shareholder Value and Equity

    ​The bank’s Total Equity saw a dramatic rise, jumping from GH¢1.27 billion to GH¢2.47 billion. This increase was supported by GH¢850 million in proceeds from a deposit for shares, signaling strong investor confidence in the bank’s new direction.

    ​Basic earnings per share reflected this optimism, rising from 2 pesewas in 2024 to 22 pesewas in 2025.

    ​A Future Rooted in Agriculture

    ​Despite the heavy focus on financial restructuring, ADB has not abandoned its core mission. The bank spent GH¢2.95 million on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), including the sponsorship of the National Best Farmer Award and donations to schools.

    ​The independent auditor, KPMG, issued an unmodified opinion on the statements, confirming that the summary financials are a fair representation of the bank’s actual position.

    ​ADB’s 2025 performance is a masterclass in crisis management. By aggressively pursuing recapitalization and refining its income streams, the bank has transitioned from a point of regulatory concern to a position of strength. As the bank looks toward 2026, the focus will likely shift from “recovery” to “expansion,” specifically in supporting Ghana’s agricultural value chain.

     

  • ADB MD Honoured for Impactful Leadership at PMI Ghana Engagement

    In a significant recognition of excellence beyond the traditional banking halls, the Managing Director of Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) PLC, Edward Ato Sarpong, has been honoured by the Project Management Institute Ghana (PMI Ghana) for his exceptional leadership and contributions to professional development.

    ​The honour was bestowed upon the MD, following his insightful leadership lecture at the Institute’s latest monthly engagement sessions, held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the Alisa Hotel in North Ridge.

    ​The event brought together project management professionals who are members of the Institute. The event served as a platform for the ADB MD to share his extensive experience in organizational transformation and strategic leadership expertise. The MD’s presentation, among others, highlighted some key attributes of impactdul leadership such as; leadership that is purpose driven, discipline, leadership that activates consciousness, leadership that doesn’t seek followers but followers seek it, and leadership that is consistently learning. He noted that these attributes of leadership serve as cornerstones for impact and sustainable growth. He also indicated that those attributes have been key to ADB’s recent turnaround and the successes it’s now recording in the Ghanaian financial landscape.

    ​ A Testament to Leadership


    ​The leadership of PMI Ghana praised Edward Ato Sarpong for his commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and for his willingness to mentor the next generation of Ghanaian professionals and leaders. According to the Institute, his (ADB MD) “impactful leadership” serves as a blueprint for executive management across various sectors.
    ​Presenting the honour, the Institute noted:

    ​”Ato Sarpong’s ability to navigate complex financial terrains while maintaining focus on human capital development and project success is exemplary. We are proud to recognize a leader who truly understands that banking is not just about numbers but about the people and projects that build a nation.”

     

    ​ Internal Pride


    ​The session saw a strong turnout, including a number of ADB staff who are members of PMI Ghana. For the staff present, the recognition of their Managing Director was a moment of collective pride, reinforcing the Bank’s internal mantra of professional growth and service excellence even beyond banking.
    ​The ADB delegation noted that the MD’s recognition underscores the Bank’s broader mission to contribute to Ghana’s socio-economic development through thought leadership and strategic partnerships.
    ​ *About ADB PLC*
    Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) PLC remains a leader in the Ghanaian banking industry, with a renewed focus on agribusiness, corporate banking, retail banking, among others, contributing to wealth creation and economic growth through innovative financial solutions and service excellence. The Bank witnessed historical financial performance last year, setting the tone for achieving its strategic vision of being among the top three banks in Ghana, globally admired for its people, processes, and performance.
    ​ *About PMI Ghana*
    The Project Management Institute (PMI) Ghana Chapter is the leading professional association for project management in the country, dedicated to promoting the profession and enhancing the skills of practitioners across all industries.

  • ADB top mgt tour local beverage facility …deepen commitment to SMEs partnership

    ADB top mgt tour local beverage facility …deepen commitment to SMEs partnership

    By Adnan Adams Mohammed

    Agricultural Development Bank’s (ADB) top management have toured the production facility of a strategic partner, a beverages and mineral water company at Oyarifa.

    The visit was part of ADB’s commitment to deepening partnerships and championing local industry.

    The Managing Director, Edward Ato Sarpong, and Deputy Managing Director, Prof. Ferdinand Ahiakpor led the ADB’s team and met with the management team of the beverages company, discussing ways to strengthen collaboration and drive innovation.

    Dr Ato Sarpong in his remarks reiterated that “ADB’s vision is to be a modern, resilient, and globally competitive bank, driving industry and empowering growth.”

    The tour is part of ADB’s bold rebranding and transformation efforts, aligning operations with international banking standards while focusing on national development.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • ADB MD Dr Sarpong Launches Seed Fund For Central Business Entreprenures Club

     

    Dr Ato Sarpong addressing NDC Central Region elections officers

     

    By Adnan Adams Mohammed

     

    Elmina, Ghana – Dr. Edward Ato Sarpong, Managing Director of ADB Ghana PLC, has created a GH¢200,000 seed fund towards establishing the Central Business Entreprenures Club.

     

    The initiative was announced during a Christmas celebration with Central Regional 2024 Collation officers and Constituency Directors of Elections in Elmina.

    Dr Ato Sarpong in a group pose with NDC faithfuls

    Dr. Sarpong, known for his enterprising skills and experience urged party faithfuls to embrace entrepreneurship, forming partnerships and focusing on creating businesses rather than seeking jobs.

     

    “To be successful in business, one must sacrifice a lot,” he cautioned.

     

    The Central Region Business Club is aimed at recruiting, nurturing, and mentoring new entrepreneurs.

     

    “The job channel is very competitive; focus on work or creating business,” Dr. Sarpong advised party youths.

    dav

    In attendance was; Central Regional Director of Elections and IT Dr. Daniel Nartey, Regional vice chairman, Regional Deputy Organiser, Comrade Joseph Mensah Abakah (Commander 1) and Constituency Chairman of KEEA Hon John Quaicoo.

     

    “We want to encourage young people to take entrepreneurship seriously,” Dr. Sarpong said.

     

    “This seed fund is just the beginning; we hope to inspire a new wave of business leaders in the region.”

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    Comrade Mensah Abakah in his submission, recounted how Dr Sarpong has contributed to his personal life development in becoming a top management staff at ADB Bank.

     

    He admonished party youth to be time conscious and patience in their endeavours in their political and professional careers.

     

     

  • ADB MD fetes ex-staffs to deepen bonds at end-of-year party 

    ADB ex-staffs with Dr Ato Sarpong

     

    The Managing Director (MD) of the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) PLC, Mr. Edward Ato Sarpong, and team graced the end-of-year party organized by the Bank’s ex-staff association held in Accra on Saturday, December 13, 2025.

    Addressing the gathering, the Managing Director described the retirees as the backbone of the institution, noting that their dedication and professionalism laid the foundation for the Bank’s growth and relevance over the past six decades.

    He noted that the engagement was taking place at a time when ADB has recorded strong financial performance, attributing the progress to prudent management, operational efficiency and the enduring values.

    In a move that was met with excitement and relief, the Managing Director announced that steps were being taken by the Bank to improve the welfare and wellbeing of its retirees, especially in the area of medical scheme, etc.

    He further reiterated that the Bank will deepen engagement with its retirees to ensure that the invaluable institutional memory they possess continues to guide ADB’s progress. “We are committed to building stronger ties with all of you. Your sacrifices shaped this institution, and it is only right that the Bank remains present in your lives,” he said.

    “This is also in line with our new corporate tagline, Beyond Banking which is not just a tagline, but a commitment to redefining banking; empowering businesses; building futures; driving prosperity; and nurturing communities,” he added.

    The Managing Director thanked the retirees for their years of dedicated service and reaffirmed management’s commitment to nurturing lifelong relationships with former staff, in line with ADB’s Beyond Banking agenda.

    On his part, the Chairman of the ADB Ex-Staff Association, Mr. Daniel Otabil Koomson, expressed his warm appreciation, on behalf of the executives and membership of the association, to the Bank for sponsoring the event. He also commended the Managing Director and his team for making time to attend the event.

    The ex-staff end-of-year party provided an opportunity for interactions, sharing of experiences and offering suggestions on the forward match of the Bank and its stakeholders.

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  • ADB Renews Commitment to Enhance Service Experience …As It Marks Customer Service Week

     

     

    The Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) PLC celebrates this year’s Customer Service Week by reaffirming its commitment to delivering enhanced customer-centric solutions and service experience to empower individuals and support businesses.

    This year’s celebration, under the theme, “Mission: Possible,” underscores ADB’s preparedness to create sustainable value through enhanced customer experience.

    Speaking on the significance of the week, the Managing Director of ADB, Edward Ato Sarpong, emphasized that the Bank’s renewed focus on service excellence is deeply rooted in its strategic direction to build a resilient, forward-looking, and future-ready institution driven by innovation and customer-centricity.

    ADB MD in a photo with customers

    “Our strategic direction focuses on innovation, service excellence, and distinctive financial solutions which align with our core values of responsibility, entrepreneurship, integrity, service excellence, and purpose-driven,” he stated.

    Mr. Sarpong expressed profound gratitude to ADB’s customers for their loyalty and trust in the Bank over the past six decades. He noted that the Bank’s longevity and success have been made possible by customers who continue to believe in its purpose and mission.

    “As we celebrate Customer Service Week, we want to thank every customer who has journeyed with us. Your confidence and trust in ADB inspire us to continuously improve and serve you better,” he said.

    “Every interaction with our customers is an opportunity to make a positive difference,” Mr. Sarpong stated. “At ADB, we are not just providing financial services; we are building relationships, enabling growth, and contributing to Ghana’s social and economic development,” he added.

    The Managing Director further stated that the Bank’s mission to create sustainable banking for everyone remains a guiding principle shaping how ADB serves its customers, from personalized in-branch experiences to digital innovations that make access to finance simpler, safer, and more inclusive.

    He also reiterated that ADB’s new brand or corporate tagline, “Beyond Banking…,” embodies the enduring promise to redefine banking in Ghana. He indicated that Beyond Banking is more than a tagline, it is a commitment to empowering businesses, building futures, driving prosperity, and nurturing communities.

    As part of this year’s celebrations, management and other officials will visit selected branches to interact with customers and also take feedback as input for continuous improvement of service delivery and service experience. Other customer-centric activities are also being rolled out as part of the celebrations.

    The Customer Service Week, celebrated annually all over the world, recognizes the importance of customer service, and ADB always leverages this important week to show appreciation to its customers for their invaluable trust in the brand.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Akuapem Rural Bank disburses almost half of credit to women …ADB MD commends the financial inclusion drive 

    Dr Ato Sarpong, ADB MD

     

    The Managing Director of the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) PLC, Mr. Edward Ato Sarpong, has commended Akuapem Rural Bank PLC for its strong focus on empowering women through credit financing.

    This, he described as a key driver of financial inclusion and sustainable banking.

    In 2024 alone, the Rural Bank advanced GH¢60.33 million, representing 49.93 percent of total loan disbursements, to 5,267 women. This marked a 23 percent increase over the previous year, with an impressively low non-performing loan ratio of 0.13 percent. While speaking as the Guest of Honour at the Bank’s 43rd Annual General Meeting (AGM), Mr. Sarpong praised the institution’s Credit with Education (CwE) programme, which has consistently directed about 50 percent of annual loan disbursements to women.

    “This achievement is not only commendable but also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal of poverty alleviation, given its direct impact on households and communities”, he mentioned.

    Mr. Sarpong encouraged the Bank to deepen its investment in the CwE programme while also strengthening risk management systems and incorporating technology to expand outreach and enhance financial inclusion.

    He further applauded the overall performance of the Rural Bank, attributing it to strong governance, quality leadership, and the support of shareholders. “The quality of your Board is evident in the results achieved, and I urge shareholders to continue backing them to ensure further growth,” he noted.

    The bank’s post-tax profit increased by 186% from GHS1.35million in 2023 to GHS3.85million in 2024 and total assets growing from GHS156million in 2023 to GHS208million in 2024.

    The Board Chairman of the bank, Dr. Ernest Obuobisa-Darko noted deposit growth of 30.77% (from 137.1million in 2023 to 179.3million in 2024), loan growth of 29.01% and investment growth of 33.15% which all contributed immensely to the overall growth in profitability and assets.

    He expressed gratitude to Management and staff for their hard work in achieving growth in all of its key financial indicators in 2024.

    The 43rd AGM brought together shareholders, board members, management, and invited guests.

     

  • ADB posts GH₵35m net profit in 2024

    The Agriculture Development Bank (ADB) has declared a remarkable financial turnaround, bouncing back from a significant loss in 2023, to profit in 2024.

     

    At its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Accra on September 24, 2025 the bank announced a net profit of GH₵35.06 million in 2024, reversing its GH₵828.8 million loss recorded the previous year.

     

    Board Chairman, Kenneth Kwamena Thompson, attributed the recovery to solid financial performance and strategic growth initiatives. He highlighted improvements in the bank’s capital adequacy ratio, though he admitted it still falls below regulatory requirements.

     

    “Key challenges persist in areas of loan book contraction and high non-performing loans, which continue to constrain credit growth and profitability potential,” Mr. Thompson told shareholders.

     

    The bank reported that its non-performing loans (NPL) ratio worsened, rising from 70.25% in 2023 to 75.26% in 2024. This, Mr. Thompson noted, underscores the difficulties in loan recovery and asset quality, which continue to weigh on profitability and capital.

     

    Despite these hurdles, ADB’s balance sheet showed strong growth. The bank’s total assets surged by 57%, from GH₵9.31 billion in 2023 to GH₵14.60 billion in 2024. Customer confidence was also reflected in deposit growth, with deposits increasing by 41%, from GH₵8.55 billion to GH₵12.05 billion.

     

    “On the deposit side, customer deposits also grew strongly highlighting improved customer confidence and stronger mobilization efforts,” Mr. Thompson assured.

     

    Looking ahead, ADB says it is committed to building a resilient, future-ready institution, with focus on innovation, digital transformation, and customer-centric solutions to sustain profitability and growth.

     

     

  • Ato Sarpong describes University of Education Winneba’s new Strategic Plan as forward-looking 

     

     

     

    The Managing Director of the Agricultural Development Bank PLC (ADB), Edward Ato Sarpong, has applauded the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) for unveiling its Strategic Plan (2025–2030).

     

    He described it as a ‘bold and forward-looking’ blueprint that positions the institution at the heart of Ghana’s educational transformation.

     

    Speaking at the launch and as chairman of the event, Mr. Edward Ato Sarpong noted that the new plan goes beyond routine administrative work, stressing that strategic planning is “the heartbeat of institutional growth, innovation, and transformation.”

     

     

    He indicated that the 2025–2030 plan was not merely a paper exercise but a “visionary roadmap” that would guide the University into a future defined by excellence, resilience, and meaningful impact.

     

    Tracing UEW’s strategic journey over the past two decades, Mr. Sarpong lauded the institution for successfully implementing four earlier plans that expanded its infrastructure, strengthened governance, enhanced academic programmes, and deepened research output.

     

    He highlighted gains in faculty development, student engagement, and international partnerships, describing them as critical building blocks that had transformed UEW into a centre of innovation and learning.

     

    The ADB MD urged stakeholders, faculty, staff, students, alumni, government, and the private sector to rally behind the new plan to ensure its success.

     

    “If this Strategic Plan is to achieve its noble objectives, then it demands our collective commitment and shared responsibility,” he said.

     

    “UEW has proven its capacity to lead in teacher education and research. Now is the time to consolidate those gains and project the University onto the global stage.”

     

     

    Mr.  Ato Sarpong further pledged ADB’s support in strengthening education and human capital development, reaffirming the bank’s belief that higher education remains a powerful driver of national growth.

     

    He also commended the drafting team for their expertise and dedication, noting that the document reflects the collective resolve of the UEW community to adapt and thrive in a fast-changing educational landscape.

     

    The launch of the Fifth Strategic Plan marks a new chapter in UEW’s history as it continues its mission of training competent professional teachers, conducting impactful research, and contributing to national and international education policy.

     

     

  • ADB MD Lauds Government’s Feed Ghana Initiative

     

    Managing Director of the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) PLC, Edward Ato Sarpong, has commended the government for its Feed Ghana initiative, describing it as a transformative intervention aimed at boosting agricultural productivity while creating employment opportunities across the country.

    The Feed Ghana Initiative, under the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), is focused on expanding agricultural production and ensuring a stable supply of raw materials to support the growth of agro-industries. It is also designed to generate thousands of jobs for the youth and agripreneurs, and contributing to Ghana’s economic transformation.

    Mr. Ato Sarpong noted that the initiative resonates with ADB’s agenda of supporting national development through sustainable investment in agribusiness.

    “The initiative aligns with ADB’s new tagline; Beyond Banking…, which reflects the Bank’s unwavering commitment to delivering added value that reaches beyond traditional financial services,” he said.

    “Our purpose as a Bank is not only to finance agriculture but to be part of the broader transformation of lives and livelihoods. “Feed Ghana is precisely the type of initiative that will motivate us to innovate, make more deliberate investments, and accompany farmers, processors, and agri-SMEs on their path to growth and expansion,” he continued.

    Edward Ato Sarpong indicated the Bank will effectively collaborate with the government and MoFA to support projects under this initiative which covers areas such as Grains and Legumes Development, Smart Agriculture, Vegetable Development Project, Institutional Farming, the Poultry Sector Initiatives, Livestock Development, Cocoa Industry Project, Cotton Production Expansion, and Oil Palm Industry Development.

    “I strongly believe that the programme will strengthen the agric value chain by ensuring that agricultural produce is efficiently processed into food products and industrial inputs, help reduce post-harvest losses, and enhance food security in Ghana,” the MD stated.

    He further hinted at ADB’s readiness to serve as a key partner in actualizing these initiatives through tailor-made financing solutions, technical and advisory support, and capacity-building interventions.

    “We are already exploring new financing schemes and collaborations that will enable us meet the unique needs of agribusinesses under the Feed Ghana programme,” he said.

    The Agricultural Development Bank is repositioning to efficiently provide universal product offerings and digital banking solutions that best serve the evolving needs of our customers and the general public.

    The Bank recently launched its new corporate tagline called Beyond Banking… which is anchored on strategic partnerships and exceptional relationship management, customer experience, among others.