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GCB Bank PLC, one of Ghana’s largest indigenous financial institutions, has announced the appointment of Aurelia Baaba Ofori Odame as its new Head of Afro-Asia Trade and State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). The executive role, which is newly created, is designed to strengthen the Bank’s focus on cross-regional trade while deepening collaboration with government-linked entities that play a key role in national development.
The appointment comes at a time when Africa is working to expand its economic partnerships with Asia, a region that has become a crucial trade and investment partner for the continent. GCB said Ms Ofori Odame’s task will be to develop and execute a robust Afro-Asia trade and SOE engagement strategy that positions the Bank as a bridge between emerging markets. Her office will also drive efforts to facilitate access to capital, trade flows, and new markets for African businesses.
GCB’s Managing Director, Mr. Farihan Alhassan, described the new role as central to the Bank’s long-term vision. “At GCB we acknowledge our position as an indigenous bank passionate about the growth of Ghanaian businesses and the development of the economy,” he said. “Aurelia’s mandate therefore is to deliver a cohesive strategy that enhances our offerings to SOEs and trade clients, encompassing bespoke financial solutions, sustainable trade finance, and advisory services to tap into opportunities in Africa and Asia for national growth.”
The Bank noted that the Africa-Asia trade corridor is one of the fastest-growing global economic connections, powered by rising investment in infrastructure, technological transformation, and collaborations between governments and the private sector. For Ghana and other African economies, Asia represents both a major source of imports and an increasingly important destination for exports such as cocoa, minerals, and manufactured goods.
At the same time, State-Owned Enterprises continue to be central to development across Africa, particularly in critical sectors like agriculture, transport, health, energy, telecommunications, and education. GCB said its new unit will provide tailored financial solutions for these enterprises to help them deliver more efficiently on their mandates while also opening opportunities for growth.
Ms Ofori Odame brings deep experience to the position. She previously worked with Stanbic Bank, where she led the Africa-China Trade Banking unit and established the bank’s first dedicated Trade Hub for Africa-China and intra-Africa trade. Under her leadership, that portfolio recorded over 100 percent year-on-year balance sheet growth and facilitated export inflows exceeding US$350 million.
Her career in the banking industry spans more than 17 years, covering retail, commercial, and corporate banking. She has held senior positions at both Stanbic Bank and the United Bank for Africa (UBA), with expertise in trade finance, relationship management, and strategic business development.
GCB emphasised that her extensive background in regional trade and cross-border finance will be vital in shaping its future strategy. The Bank said her experience would help it provide world-class support for businesses seeking to connect with Asian markets while also advancing Ghana’s industrialisation agenda.
The Bank also highlighted that the appointment reinforces its commitment to promoting inclusive and sustainable trade. According to the management, GCB aims to continue funding infrastructure and industrial projects, supporting market access for businesses, and creating stronger partnerships with government entities.
Speaking on her new role, Aurelia Baaba Ofori Odame said she is eager to drive GCB’s Afro-Asia and SOE strategy. “This is an exciting time for African trade, as opportunities between Africa and Asia continue to expand. My goal is to ensure GCB plays a leading role in providing the financial solutions and advisory services that businesses and SOEs need to thrive in this new environment,” she said.
Her appointment comes as Ghana and many African countries are looking to the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade and strengthen international linkages. Analysts believe banks like GCB will be critical in supporting the financial flows, risk management, and partnerships needed to unlock the full benefits of these trade corridors.
With Ms Ofori Odame now in charge of this new portfolio, GCB hopes to position itself as a trusted partner for both African and Asian stakeholders, connecting businesses to new opportunities and driving sustainable economic transformation.
