Queen Máxima visit puts Ghana money talk on stage

Queen Máxima visit puts Ghana money talk on stage

Queen Máxima of the Netherlands has arrived in Ghana on a three-day visit to increase financial wellbeing and encourage more people to access useful financial services.

The Queen, who serves as the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Financial Health, began her visit on November 3, 2026. Her mission is to encourage better financial policies and help people manage their money more effectively.

According to Citi Newsroom, her visit includes meetings with government officials, financial institutions, farmers, entrepreneurs and development partners. Discussions are focusing on savings, affordable loans, agricultural financing, insurance and investments.

Financial wellbeing is said to be having enough control over your money to meet daily needs, save for the future and handle unexpected expenses without depending heavily on borrowing.

For instance, a market trader who can buy goods, pay household bills and still put some money aside for emergencies is in a stronger financial position than someone who spends everything earned each day.

Ghana has succeeded making financial inclusion, with more than 80 per cent of adults having access to financial accounts and services. However, having a bank account does not automatically mean someone is financially healthy. A 2021 FinScope study found that only 22 per cent of Ghanaian adults were financially healthy.

The issue is important across Africa, where many small business owners, farmers and informal workers face irregular incomes, limited savings and difficulties accessing affordable credit. Rising living costs also make it harder for families to plan ahead.

Queen Máxima's visit is expected to draw attention to the need for financial services that help people do more than receive and transfer money. Access to savings, insurance and responsible loans can give families and businesses greater financial security.

Her engagement with Ghanaian leaders and financial institutions could encourage policies that make these services more affordable and accessible.

Ultimately, financial inclusion should mean more than owning a bank account. It should give people the confidence and resources to manage today's expenses while preparing for tomorrow.