GCB Bank PLC Partners with Catholic Church to Host West Africa Youth Days 2026 in Accra

GCB Bank PLC has announced a strategic partnership with the Catholic Church to support the upcoming West Africa Youth Days (WAYD) 2026, scheduled to take place in Accra. Organized under the auspices of the Regional Episcopal Conference of West Africa, the event will serve as a massive gathering for young people across 16 countries in the sub-region. This collaboration highlights GCB Bank’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility, specifically focusing on youth empowerment and the expansion of financial inclusion among the next generation of West African leaders.

The 2026 gathering aims to provide a platform for cultural exchange and high-level dialogue on pressing regional issues. With approximately 36.9% of Ghana’s population falling within the 15-to-35 age bracket, GCB Bank views the development of this demographic as essential for both national and regional economic stability. The partnership is designed to equip attendees with the necessary tools to navigate challenges in education and entrepreneurship. By focusing on financial literacy, the bank intends to provide young participants with the knowledge and confidence required to make sound financial decisions as they enter the workforce or start new business ventures.

Cynthia Ofori-Dwumfwo, the Chief Marketing Officer at GCB Bank, emphasized that engaging the youth is vital for building a resilient future for the continent. The WAYD event will feature a diverse program including cultural performances and discussions led by various public-sector leaders. These sessions will center on themes of peace and hope, addressing the unique socio-economic landscape of West Africa. Originally proposed in 2019, the initiative has evolved into a significant networking opportunity where young minds can share innovative ideas and establish trans-border connections.

This partnership reinforces GCB Bank's position as a forward-thinking financial institution dedicated to the long-term prosperity of the West African sub-region. By integrating financial empowerment into a major religious and cultural event, the bank is reaching a wider audience and fostering a culture of financial responsibility. As preparations continue for the 2026 assembly, the collaboration sets a precedent for how financial institutions can work alongside religious organizations to address systemic developmental goals and drive sustainable growth through the empowerment of the youth.