Private-sector arm of the World Bank Group, International Finance Corporation (IFC), is set to help the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) develop guidelines for issuers and investors of green bonds in Ghana.
The partnership between SEC and the IFC, follows the need to unlock investments in private sector projects that support renewable energy and address climate and environmental issues in the country.
In a statement issued by Director-General of SEC, Rev. Daniel Ogbarmey Tetteh, the introduction of green bonds will give investors opportunities to finance green buildings, clean transportation, renewable energy, sustainable water management, and other climate-friendly projects.
“This partnership will enable the SEC to tap into IFC’s deep knowledge and develop a comprehensive reference guide appropriate for the Ghanaian market. Green bonds will support Ghana’s transition to a lower-carbon future as specified in the country’s agreed contributions under the Paris Agreement,” he said.
IFC’s Green Bond Program, launched in 2010, has helped catalyse the market and unlock investment for private sector projects that support renewable energy and energy efficiency. IFC has issued roughly 170 green bonds in 20 currencies amounting to over $10 billion.
Ronke Ogunsulire, IFC’s Country Manager for Ghana, also noted that, “finding new avenues for green financing is a key priority for IFC. Our partnership with the SEC to design the framework for green bonds in Ghana will, in turn, help Ghana achieve its climate goals with projects that create jobs and spur economic growth.”
The development of green bonds guidelines for Ghana is an initiative of IFC’s Green Bond Market Development Program, supported by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) and the Luxemburg government.
