By Buertey Francis BORYOR
Solis Microfinance Ltd has unveiled a new user-friendly mobile banking app at a well-attended launch event in Accra last Wednesday.
The innovative mobile app is designed to bring financial services to millions of underserved Ghanaians.
It is to make saving money and getting loans easier for citizens, especially those working in the informal sector.
The spectacular event, was attended by business leaders, partners, government representatives, regulators, clients and members of the press.
It was a celebration of technology, inclusion, and a renewed mission to support small businesses and individuals who often struggle to access financial services.
The CEO of Solis Microfinance, Mr. Anthony Abakisi, in a keynote speech during the launch said, the app was more than just a product- it was a new way of thinking about banking.
“We are not just launching an app. We are launching a vision where every Ghanaian, no matter where they live or how much they earn, can have access to financial services.
According to him, the app allows anyone with a smartphone to open a bank account in under two minutes. Users can save at their own pace and also qualify for credit based on their saving patterns.
“Our mission is to help the excluded build a habit of saving and get access to credit that supports both their hustle and dreams.
“There is no need to sit in a bank for hours or fill out long forms. With this new app, the process is simple and fast.
“Users only need a Ghana Card, a smartphone, and a registered mobile money number. Once the account is open, they can save money, apply for loans, and manage their finances directly from the app. with just a smartphone, anyone can open a savings account in less than two minutes” he elaborated.
He indicated that over 80 percent of the country’s workforce operates in the informal sector, including drivers, market traders, tailors, and online gig workers- people who have long been excluded from traditional banking.
“These are the people who keep our economy running. We built the Solis app for them,” he explained.
Furthermore, Mr. Abakisi highlighted the growing use of mobile money, noting that there are over 55 million active mobile money accounts in the country, even though the population is around 33 million.
This, he said, shows that the citizens are ready for digital solutions if the right tools are made available to them.
Abakisi also stressed the importance of empowering the youth, noting that with a median age under 20, the country’s future lies in digital solutions that fit their mobile-first lifestyles. “Young people, in particular, are eager for technology that fits their lifestyle and needs,” he said.
Moreover, he thanked the German development agency- GIZ, for its collaboration in making financial inclusion a reality. He added that the company’s teamwork with GIZ helped make the app a reality and allowed Solis to reach even deeper into communities that are usually left out.
Board Chair of Solis Microfinance, Mr. Francis Ekow Dadzie, in a speech read on his behalf- reflected on the company’s journey, starting as Metro Gold Microfinance before rebranding to Solis- meaning “sun” to symbolise renewal and growth.
He lauded the team’s hard work and thanked regulators, stakeholders, and clients for their support.
A speech was also read on behalf of Dr. Dirk, Aßmann, the Country Director of GIZ Ghana during the event. He praised Solis for being forward-thinking and for embracing digital solutions that serve the needs of small businesses.
According to him, MSMEs play a huge role in job creation and development but often lack support from formal banks. He said GIZ’s partnership with Solis is meant to close that gap and help these businesses grow.
During a live demonstration, the Solis team walked the audience through the features of the new app. The main focus was on how quick and easy it is to use.
“All you need is your Ghana Card, a smartphone, and a registered mobile money number,” the lead presenter said.
He added that, the app does not require a minimum balance and can be used to buy airtime, pay bills, and send money to any commercial bank.
Also, he noted that one of its most unique features is- its ability to link multiple mobile wallets, which is something many traditional banks do not offer.
The app also has a “Smart Savings” feature that allows users to set goals and save towards them. For business owners and merchants, there is a special current account with no maintenance fees. These features make the app flexible for both personal and business use,” the presenter furthermore said.
