Former BoG Deputy Governor Dr. Opoku-Afari joins Finance for Development Lab

The Finance for Development Lab (FDL) has appointed distinguished economist and former First Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Maxwell Opoku-Afari, as a Non-Resident Fellow.

The appointment marks a strategic move to deepen the institution’s research on development finance and policy innovation across emerging economies.

Dr. Opoku-Afari brings to the Lab nearly three decades of experience in central banking and international finance, having held senior roles at both the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Bank of Ghana.

His appointment signals FDL’s commitment to advancing economic research and strengthening partnerships with policymakers and financial institutions in Africa and beyond.

In his new role, Dr. Opoku-Afari will lead two major studies over the next six months, focusing on financial stability, debt sustainability and development finance.

He will also play a pivotal role in shaping the Lab’s Africa Debt Conference scheduled for next year, while contributing to FDL’s seminars, research initiatives and policy dialogues.

Speaking on his appointment, Dr. Opoku-Afari said he was honoured to join the Finance for Development Lab and looks forward to collaborating with other global experts to promote shared and sustainable growth through research and dialogue.

“I eagerly look forward to working with distinguished professionals to contribute to the vital work of promoting shared and sustainable growth and development through thoughtful research and discussions,” he said.

Martin Kessler, Executive Director of the Finance for Development Lab, praised Dr. Opoku-Afari’s appointment, describing him as a valuable addition to the institution’s mission.

“His extensive background in central banking and international finance will be a tremendous asset as we work toward fostering sustainable development across Africa and beyond,” he noted.

Dr. Opoku-Afari’s tenure at the Bank of Ghana spanned over seven years, where he oversaw critical portfolios including Economic Policy, Payments Systems and FinTech, Research, Currency Management and Risk Management.

He also co-chaired the Government’s Economic Policy Coordinating Committee, providing key policy guidance during Ghana’s macroeconomic recovery efforts.

An alumnus of the University of Ghana and the University of Nottingham, Dr. Opoku-Afari is a Fellow of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences and an honorary fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIB) and the Institute of Directors, Ghana (IoD).

His appointment at the Finance for Development Lab is expected to enhance collaboration between African policymakers and international development institutions, advancing innovative financial solutions to support sustainable growth across the continent.

Source: Citi Business News