Across Africa, the story of digital transformation is being rewritten by our very own people. The MOBEX Africa Tech Conference 2025 brought together industry leaders, regulators, and entrepreneurs shaping the continent’s next chapter of growth through technology. 

On Day 2 of the conference, Hubtel’s Head of Merchant Growth & Partnerships, Daniel Frimpong, joined a panel discussion on “Unlocking Africa’s Economic Potential Through Financial Innovation and Integration.” The session explored how digital payments and financial systems can power inclusive growth, strengthen trade, and connect economies across borders.

Unlocking Africa’s Economic Potential Through Collaboration 

Moderated by Ato Ulzen-Appiah, the panel featured key figures from across the financial and technology ecosystem, including Clarence Blay (Director, Bank of Ghana), Dr. Nathan Annobi (CEO, PaySwitch), and Kayode Akomolafe (Digital Transformation Director, AWS). 

They discussed the need for deeper collaboration among fintechs, regulators, and policymakers to build systems that make digital trade seamless and inclusive. Topics ranged from cross-border interoperability and regulatory alignment to simplified KYC processes that can expand financial access under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework. 

READ ALSO: Hubtel Sweeps Four Awards at 2025 Digital Innovation Awards 

Building Trust as the Foundation of Africa’s Digital Growth 

Representing Hubtel, Daniel Frimpong highlighted that Africa’s digital transformation depends not only on innovation, but on the reliability and trust that sustain it. Reflecting on Hubtel’s 20-year journey in Ghana’s fintech landscape, he shared how the company’s model has always centered on creating long-term value for both businesses and consumers. 

“Our model has always been B2B2C; helping businesses serve their customers better through dependable digital payment systems,” Daniel said. “What keeps users engaged isn’t just innovation, but reliability. When people know they can trust your system to work every time, you earn the right to scale.” 

He added that as Africa moves toward greater financial integration, building and maintaining user confidence will be essential to increasing digital adoption across borders. 

Confronting the Regulatory Hurdles 

The discussion also touched on one of Africa’s biggest challenges, fragmented financial regulations across countries. Speakers emphasized the need for harmonized policies that would allow fintechs licensed in one jurisdiction to operate across multiple African markets. 

Daniel echoed this, noting the importance of systems that work for Africans wherever they trade or transact. This reflects Hubtel’s mission to build simple and secure digital solutions that help people find and pay for everyday essentials. 

The Next Leap for Africa’s Fintech Ecosystem 

Earlier sessions at the conference set a reflective tone on Africa’s digital sovereignty and innovation capacity. Prof. Nii Narku Quaynor emphasized investing in local infrastructure and education to reduce dependency on foreign systems. Hon. Sam Nartey George, Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, also called for stronger policies and homegrown innovation to secure Africa’s digital future. 

Across all sessions, one message that stood out was the shared believe that Africa’s economic rise can and will be powered by African systems, African leadership, and African collaboration. 

Hubtel’s Commitment to Digital Innovation 

As Ghana’s leading fintech platform, Hubtel’s participation in MOBEX Africa 2025 reaffirms its commitment to driving inclusive growth through simple, reliable, and user-centered digital solutions. 

Daniel Frimpong’s insights echoed how the success of Africa’s fintech revolution depends not only on the speed of innovation, but on the depth of trust it earns.  

“Africa’s digital future will thrive on systems people can depend on; solutions that work every time, for everyone.” 

On Monday, 15th September 2025, the Hubtel team received news that would change the tone of the week completely — the sudden passing of Kojo Akyer, a valued member of the Quality Assurance (QA) team.  

Kojo joined Hubtel on 1st August 2024 as a Quality Assurance Test Automation Engineer, a role that placed him at the heart of ensuring the reliability of Hubtel’s systems and applications. In a short time, he became an integral part of the QA team, working on the Merchants Portal and collaborating with other testers to strengthen system performance and deliver smooth customer experiences. 

Though relatively new to the company, Kojo quickly distinguished himself through his work ethic, focus, and humility. He approached every project with quiet determination and professionalism that earned the respect of both his peers and leaders. 

“Kojo brought both skill and dedication to his work,” shared Michael Adom, Head of the QA Department. “He approached every task with focus, diligence, and humility. His technical expertise, willingness to learn, and teamwork stood out in every project he touched. Above all, Kojo was dependable — someone who could always be counted on to get the job done right.” 

His calm personality and disciplined approach to testing and automation made him a steady influence on his team. Those who worked closest with him often describe him as a kind, reliable, and quietly confident professional who made everyone feel at ease. 

“His unwavering dedication and quiet humility left a lasting impression on both our immediate team and the entire QA department,” said Jewel Appiah, one of his managers. “Kojo made significant contributions that not only advanced our work but also strengthened the bonds among team members. He will be remembered not just for what he did, but for who he was dependable, kind, and deeply respected.” 

Kojo’s time at Hubtel may have been brief, but his impact was profound. Beyond his technical contributions, he embodied qualities that resonate deeply within Hubtel’s culture, teamwork, respect, and a commitment to excellence done with humility. He represented the quiet strength that keeps teams moving forward, often without seeking recognition or applause. 

For many of his colleagues, his passing is a poignant reminder of the value of every shared moment and every small act of kindness that shapes a workplace. The QA department and the wider Hubtel family continue to honour his memory, remembering him not only as a colleague but as a friend. 

Kojo Akyer will be missed for his craft, his composure, and his humanity. And though his journey with us was short, the mark he left behind will remain for years to come. 

May his soul rest in peace. 

Kokomlemle, Accra – September 30, 2025 – Hubtel, Ghana’s leading Payment Services Provider, recently took the global stage with a feature on CNN’s Marketplace Africa.  

The segment, anchored by Zain Asher, showcased the company’s journey from an emerging tech venture to a Fintech powerhouse, providing valuable insights into the ever-growing digital economy in Ghana and across the continent. 

The feature included an exclusive interview with Alex Bram, CEO and Co-founder of Hubtel, who articulated the strategic pivots and core philosophies that have driven the company’s success since its founding two decades ago. 

The CNN segment highlighted Hubtel as a clear example of homegrown African innovation at work. The narrative focused on the crucial role Hubtel plays in digitizing commerce and facilitating seamless financial transactions, a critical function in a rapidly digitizing market. 

The interview was structured around key strategic themes, labelled as “Points,” that defined Hubtel’s journey and future vision: 

The Profit Point (Enabling Digital Commerce):

This focused on Hubtel’s core business of helping businesses collect payments from diverse sources—cash, mobile money, cards, and other digital wallets. Bram highlighted that Hubtel digitizes storefronts for a wide range of customers, from “the very small micro-enterprises” (such as a woman selling corn or plantain) to large corporations providing utility and entertainment services. 

The Homegrown Point (The Ghanaian Advantage):

Bram stressed that Hubtel’s development is inextricably linked to the story of Ghana. Ghana’s early opening up of the mobile telephony market in the 1990s created a fertile ground for companies to build digital systems, providing the market momentum to succeed. He also noted that Ghana “got it right with mobile money and interbank interoperability” early on, which has been key to the financial ecosystem’s growth. 

The Pivot Point (Strategic Evolution): The segment detailed Hubtel’s critical transition. 

The company was founded on the idea of making SMS useful for businesses, a path they followed for quite some time. The major shift, or “pivot,” occurred around 2015 when mobile money began to truly take off. Hubtel strategically moved its business away from micro-billing (like airtime billing) into becoming a leading platform for mobile money and payments. 

The Communication Point (Working with Government):

Alex addressed the complexities of working with the public sector, noting that when serving government and public service providers, Hubtel brings the same level of innovation and quality used for private businesses. He underscored the need for engagement and communication with the government, acknowledging that a “private sector lens” cannot always be applied without modification. 

The Future Point (Uncapped Growth):

Looking ahead, Alex highlighted the massive untapped potential. Despite being Ghana’s leading Fintech, Hubtel still has significant room to grow, currently only processing a fraction of the total volume of digital transactions in the economy. With a merchant base poised for expansion, the company’s focus remains on scaling its platform to drive deeper penetration of digital finance. 

Building Homegrown Solutions for a Digital Africa 

Hubtel’s ability to evolve from a messaging company (formerly SMSGH) to a comprehensive payment and commerce platform is a prime example of African businesses building world-class solutions for African challenges. Hubtel brings many payment methods into one system. Businesses accept and track payments in one place. This helps both small businesses and large businesses join the digital economy.

As Bram stated, the long-term vision is clear: “We want to be able to step it up. We think that Ghana still gives us a lot of room to grow. Even as the number one Fintech here, we still process just about 12% of the volume of transactions… This economy has over 800,000 such businesses. There is still a lot of room to grow.” 

Why This Feature Matters 

Marketplace Africa is CNN’s flagship business program dedicated to highlighting companies, leaders, and innovations that are shaping Africa’s economic future. By showcasing homegrown success stories, the program provides global audiences with a deeper understanding of the continent’s entrepreneurial energy and technological advancement. 

Being profiled on Marketplace Africa affirms Hubtel’s strategy, resilience, and impact. The feature presents Hubtel not only as a leader in Ghana’s fintech space but also as a company setting the pace for digital innovation across Africa. 

The coverage underscores the growing international recognition of Ghana’s technology ecosystem, with Hubtel at its core. By bridging informal and formal commerce, enabling everyday transactions, and driving financial inclusion, Hubtel continues to shape the future of Africa’s digital economy. 

Watch Video here:

Following the publication of the 2024 Auditor General’s report, public commentary has raised questions about whether Hubtel received GHS 75 million from the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) without a governing contract.  

For the record, we wish to clarify as follows; 

Accordingly, payments to Hubtel – including the GHS 75 million referenced in media reports – are fully covered by binding instruments approved by ECG’s Board and executed by both parties.  

Assertions to the contrary are factually unfounded. 

Few names in Ghana’s digital economy command the quiet respect and admiration that Mr. Archie Hesse does. For nearly two decades, he has been the unseen force behind Ghana’s payments ecosystem, making sure it works better, leading the team that makes it work beautifully.  

As he moves on from his role as CEO of GhIPSS, we pause to honour the man whose steady leadership and vision have helped define an entire industry. 

He has been, without exaggeration, the titan and gentle giant of Ghana’s fintech infrastructure — the steady hand behind the scenes who helped transform how Ghanaians move money, access services, and engage with the digital economy. 

After 18 remarkable years of service to Ghana — and over a decade as Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlement Systems (GhIPSS) — Mr. Hesse is moving on. But what he built remains deeply woven into the fabric of Ghana’s daily life and future. 

The Infrastructure Behind Everyday Ease 

Today in Ghana, people can: 

• Send and receive money across mobile money networks in seconds. 

• Move funds between bank accounts and wallets without stress. 

• Access digital financial services at any time, without queues or cash crunches. 

These everyday conveniences — which we now take for granted — did not exist by default. They are the result of a deliberate, visionary, and technically complex effort. 

Under his leadership, Ghana saw the rollout of platforms like e-zwich, Gh-Link, GhIPSS Instant Pay (GIP), and Mobile Money Interoperability. These national assets enable seamless transactions, financial inclusion, and business innovation across the country. 

Many countries in Africa — and beyond — still grapple with fragmented, siloed payment systems. But Ghana stands out. We are the envy of the continent when it comes to interoperability. 

The Quiet Bridge-Builder 

One of Archie’s greatest strengths has always been his ability to bring people together – banks, fintechs, telcos, regulators – and align them behind a shared goal without the fanfare and showmanship of meetings or public discussions. 

He wasn’t loud. He didn’t demand headlines. 
Instead, he built bridges. He navigated competing interests. And he moved mountains, one policy and one partnership at a time. 

What set him apart was not just technical leadership, but a deep understanding of people, how to rally teams, how to build consensus, and how to get things done without ever losing his calm or his conviction. 

A Personal Note 

On a personal level, I will miss his occasional invitations to GHIPSS — often just to share ideas, get feedback, or brainstorm how to help the ecosystem innovate better. He was never afraid to ask questions, never too proud to learn from others, and always looking ahead to what Ghana could do next.  

It’s always a joy and a lesson to see Archie pitch his new initiatives with the gusto of an entrepreneur with an idea that can change the world. 

That humility he brings to old projects and new ideas – paired with his deep expertise – made him a rare kind of leader. And those moments has been a lesson for me and will always stay with me. 

Ghana Must Honour Him 

Archie Hesse may be stepping down from his role at GhIPSS, but I know he is not retiring. And I am certain that wherever his next chapter takes him, it will be guided by the same commitment to excellence, national development, and quiet innovation that defined his journey at GhIPSS. 

From all of us at Hubtel, we say: Ayekoo. Mo ne yo. You have our highest honour, Sir! 

We celebrate you. 
Our customers celebrate you. 
And Ghana, most certainly, celebrates you. 

We thank you — and we wish you the very best in your next endeavours. 

Alex Bram 
CEO, Hubtel 

Ghana’s leading payment services provider, Hubtel, emerged as one of the biggest winners at the 2025 Digital Innovation Awards (DIA), clinching four prestigious awards that highlight its impact in e-commerce, SME enablement, and digital innovation. 

The company was awarded: 

• E‑Commerce Platform of the Year 

• SME Digital Enabler of the Year 

• Innovation Team of the Year 

• Technology Innovator of the Year – awarded to Alex Bram, CEO of Hubtel 

The Digital Innovation Awards (DIA), formerly known as the Ghana Information Technology & Telecom Awards (GITTA), is Ghana’s premier recognition platform for excellence in ICT, digital transformation, and emerging technologies. Since its launch in 2010, it has grown into one of the continent’s foremost innovation awards, celebrating achievements across fintech, telecom, government, health, education, and agriculture. 

Often referred to as the “Oscars of the ICT industry”, DIA is now in its 14th edition and has taken a bold step into continental space. The 2025 edition officially introduced Pan-African categories, celebrating digital leadership and innovation across countries including Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Rwanda, Botswana, and Ethiopia. 

Speaking at the event after receiving all four awards on behalf of the company, Nana Owusu-Marfo, Head of UX & Marketing at Hubtel, shared: 

“These awards are not just a recognition of our work, they’re a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a team commits to solving real problems with heart, clarity, and consistency. From merchants to customers, our mission has always been to make everyday life a little easier and a lot more connected.” 
 
He added, “We dedicate these wins to every teammate, partner, and merchant who believes in what we’re building.” 

• E‑Commerce Platform of the Year celebrates Hubtel’s intuitive marketplace and quick-commerce innovation—bringing essentials like food, groceries, and bill payments to customers’ fingertips across Ghana. 

• SME Digital Enabler of the Year recognizes Hubtel’s continued investment in tools that help small and medium-sized businesses grow—such as POS systems, payment solutions, and messaging tools. 

• Technology Innovator of the Year, awarded to Alex Bram, affirms his role in pioneering local fintech and launching Ghana’s first AI Lab. 

• Innovation Team of the Year spotlights the engineers, product teams, designers, and delivery staff whose combined effort powers Hubtel’s ecosystem. 

As Hubtel celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, these awards come at a symbolic moment. They reinforce the company’s drive to expand nationally, launch AI‑powered tools, support local merchants, and keep innovating with impact. 
 
With these wins, Hubtel continues to lead the charge in shaping Ghana’s digital economy, and now, increasingly, Africa’s. 

Onyxma, as an Oil Marketing Company (OMC), is committed to delivering high-quality fuel and energy solutions directly to customers while enhancing overall customer experience through quality service and support.

Given the nature of the industry, three key factors are crucial to its operations: the speed of transactions for efficiency at service points, a smooth system for easy service, and an exceptional customer experience that builds loyalty and satisfaction. 

READ ALSO: How Hubtel’s USSD is Improving Niobe Spa’s Customer Experience 

Decision to use Hubtel 

For Onyxma, they are continuously seeking ways to improve their efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction. This is because, in the industry they operate in, these two factors account for retaining customers. A key area they aimed to improve was their payment process.    

“As part of our commitment to improving efficiency, we have focused on refining our payment processes,” explains Mr. Kumah, Manager at Onyxma. “And for us, this is where Hubtel’s USSD is most beneficial to our operations.

It makes payments easy for our customers because, regardless of their network, they can easily dial the code and pay, even without the need for the internet.” 

“I would say it is a win-win situation for both us and our customers because payments are processed faster for us, and customers can make easy payments without additional costs.” 

No Hidden Costs, No Charges 

Initially, Onyxma was cautious about signing up for Hubtel’s USSD due to concerns about potential costs. However, they quickly realized that onboarding and usage came with no hidden charges. 

As Mr. Kumah explains, “We assumed there would be extra expenses involved, but discovering that Hubtel’s USSD service has no hidden costs or charges for onboarding, and that the transaction fee was capped at 1% made our decision easy.” 

Real-time transaction monitoring and easy reconciliation 

The benefit of using Hubtel’s USSD for Onyxma was not just how it made it easy for their customers to pay. It also provided other advantages, such as real-time transaction monitoring, as well as making reconciliation easy. 

“The web dashboard that accompanies the USSD also allows us to monitor daily transactions as they happen. With this, we have a clear overview of all transactions processed by Hubtel, making it impossible for any theft risk,” says Mr. Kumah. 

He adds, “Additionally, the back office provides in-depth insights through the sales reports we generate. This makes reconciliations easy, as transactions are recorded in real time, eliminating the need for manual bookkeeping and the errors that come with it. This effectively addresses issues of miscalculations and missing funds.”  

Hourly settlement 

The hourly settlements that Hubtel provides also benefit the company’s operations. Given the nature of how OMCs operate, they often need readily available funds to manage their entire supply chain—from import to sale at the pump—to ensure smooth station operation.  

Highlighting the significant impact this has on their operations, Mr. Kumah stated that: “One of the key factors that convinced us to adopt Hubtel was the speed at which transactions are processed and reflected in our accounts.

Previously, delayed settlements created challenges for restocking and managing urgent expenses. Now, with settlements processed within an hour, funds are promptly transferred to our designated account for immediate operational needs.” 

The outcome: Enhancing Onyxma’s service operations with Hubtel USSD 

The decision to use Hubtel’s USSD has been particularly impactful for Onyxma. This is because the speed at which customers can pay has enhanced their overall experience, eliminated the risk of theft, and significantly improved operations. 

“I can confidently say that the ease of making payments has contributed to our steady progress,” says Mr. Kumah. “With 32 stations currently in operation, the benefits of using Hubtel’s USSD have been significant for both our customers and us.

While it may take time for all our customers to adopt it, the convenience and speed of Hubtel’s USSD make it a worthwhile move. Customers who currently use the USSD for payments are happier with the process,” Mr. Kumah concludes. 

Final Reflection 

Onyxma’s experience with Hubtel’s USSD demonstrates how digital payment solutions can transform operations in the oil marketing industry and across various industries.

By eliminating extra charges, enhancing transaction tracking, and enabling rapid hourly settlements, Hubtel has significantly improved both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

This digital shift not only minimizes risks associated with cash handling but also equips businesses with the agility needed to thrive in an ever-evolving market. 

At Niobe Spa & Salon, luxury is not just about the services offered—it is the entire experience, from the moment a client walks in, to the moment they leave. Niobe has built a reputation for delivering the finest in self-care, creating a calming experience for clients.  

However, its payment process did not quite match that ease, occasionally adding discomfort for both staff and clients. Recognizing the importance of every touchpoint, the team sought to enhance the payment process to match the comfort clients feel throughout their visit. 

READ ALSO: Bakeshop Classics’ Recipe for Success

“We promise our clients relaxation and ease, but our payment system was doing the exact opposite,” says Miss Ampong, Front Desk Manager. “Clients would finish their treatments feeling refreshed, only to be delayed at the payment stage. It was frustrating, and we knew we had to fix it.” 

The Payment Problem 

Before Hubtel, Niobe Spa & Salon relied on different payment platforms, many of which had recurring issues. Internet connectivity problems and system failures meant that transactions often took longer than expected, leaving clients waiting unnecessarily. This was particularly frustrating for those who preferred digital payments, as they expected a quick and convenient experience. 

“It was embarrassing when a client could not complete a payment because the system was down,” Miss Ampong explains. “People expect smooth service from start to finish, and payment delays were taking away from that experience.” 

The frequent delays not only affected customer satisfaction but also had an impact on the spa’s operations, as staff had to spend extra time resolving payment issues instead of focusing on delivering exceptional service. These challenges disrupted the flow of service and did not align with the spa’s commitment to providing a smooth and relaxing experience. 

The Hubtel Discovery: A Solution That Offered Convenience 

Niobe Spa & Salon needed more than just another payment option—they needed reliability, speed, and simplicity. The ideal solution had to work efficiently at all times, regardless of internet connectivity. This would enable every client to make payments without disruptions. 
 
“We wanted something that just worked no matter the time of day, no matter the network, and without our staff having to troubleshoot,” Miss Ampong says. “It wasn’t just about making payments; it was about protecting the service our brand is known for.” 

Through a recommendation, Niobe Spa & Salon was introduced to Hubtel’s USSD. Initially starting as a trial, it quickly became a fundamental part of their operations. Transactions became quick and reliable, eliminating the frequent downtimes they had previously faced. Best of all, the payments no longer depended on internet availability. 

“The first time we used Hubtel, we immediately saw the difference,” Miss Ampong recalls. “A client completed their payment in seconds, and the transaction was quickly processed. No more waiting, no more apologizing for system failures just a straightforward, efficient process.” 

From Payment Delays to Instant Transactions. 

Since adopting Hubtel’s USSD, Niobe Spa & Salon has seen a significant improvement in their payment process. The switch has not only simplified operations but also enhanced the overall customer experience.  

“Switching to Hubtel’s USSD service has brought clear and immediate benefits for us and our clients. Now, our customers can quickly complete their payments without unnecessary waiting, thanks to the fast processing of payments through USSD. What’s even better is that they do not need to rely on Wi-Fi or mobile data, so payments can be made from all branches, at any time” Miss Ampong remarked. 

Beyond Payments: Strengthening Customer Trust 

By addressing payment-related challenges, Niobe Spa & Salon has been able to improve both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. With a payment solution that aligns with the spa’s commitment to convenience, clients leave feeling relaxed—not just from their treatments, but from a smoother experience that supports their trust in the spa. 

“Hubtel is more than a payment provider to us—it is a partner in our business,” Miss Ampong says. “We no longer stress about payments. We can now focus on what truly matters: delivering exceptional service to every client who walks through our doors.” 

Embrace the Future of Payments Today 

By choosing Hubtel’s USSD service, the spa not only improved its payment process but also created a smoother experience for both clients and staff. With faster payments, and easy tracking, Hubtel offers a solution that aligns with the need for convenience and reliability. When we simplify operations, it becomes easier for customers too. Ready to make your business operations easy? Sign up now and transform your business experience. 

It’s Just Recreating the Job Market — and Ghana Is Just Getting Started 
By the Hubtel AI Lab 

In recent months, artificial intelligence (AI) has become the center of global conversation — and with it, a wave of fear. From Accra to Silicon Valley, people are asking the same question: “Is AI coming for my job?” 

As a team working at the forefront of AI research and implementation in Ghana, we’d like to say this clearly: AI is not here to take your job. It’s here to make your job better. Faster. Smarter. 

In fact, what AI is really doing is recreating the job market — and it’s giving countries like Ghana a unique opportunity to leap ahead, not fall behind. 

When AI Enters the Room, Work Becomes Faster 

Not long ago, a real estate contractor told us how long it takes to complete just six houses. The issue wasn’t materials or manpower — it was delays due to disorganization and lack of clarity on the ground. 

Imagine AI interpreting architectural drawings, mechanical layouts, and plumbing plans — and turning them into clear, step-by-step daily instructions for workers. Suddenly, confusion is replaced with momentum. Deadlines are met. Productivity skyrockets. 

This is how AI transforms work. It doesn’t replace the builder. It supercharges the builder’s speed and precision — and in a country where housing demand far exceeds supply, speed matters. 

Lawyers, Teachers, and Other Professionals Are Already Seeing the Benefits 

We’ve seen it ourselves: legal teams using AI to draft documents in minutes rather than days. Educators summarizing lesson plans or grading patterns instantly. AI doesn’t eliminate expertise — it frees up time for higher-value thinking. 

AI helps you work smarter. Not harder. 

Ghana’s Youth + AI = A Massive Opportunity 

Ghana has a young, ambitious population hungry for growth. AI can dramatically accelerate learning and skills development: 

• Vocational training becomes easier with AI-led visual guides and simulations. 

• Students in underserved areas gain access to smart tutors in local languages. 

• Coders and tech learners receive real-time feedback and project support. 

• Professionals in trades like plumbing, welding, or painting can use AI to plan projects and avoid costly mistakes. 

The outcome? A more skilled, adaptable workforce — built faster than traditional systems can support. 

READ ALSO: Hubtel Opens Ghana’s First AI Lab 

AI Can Power Smarter Governance 

AI’s potential extends beyond the private sector — into the heart of national development. 

Here’s what’s possible: 

• Urban planning with AI simulations that model roads, drains, and power needs before concrete is poured. 

• Public health monitoring, identifying trends before outbreaks escalate. 

• Smart budgeting, helping ministries prioritize funds based on data, not guesswork. 

• AI assistants for citizens, providing 24/7 access to services without long queues. 

• Cross-agency intelligence, using centralized data to identify waste, fraud, and duplication. 

With the right policy framework and data-sharing culture, Ghana can use AI to govern more effectively and spend more wisely. 

AI for Business: Your Free Consultant 

For Ghanaian entrepreneurs and business owners, AI is like hiring a brilliant assistant — free of charge: 

• Analyze customer complaints and sales trends. 

• Draft business emails, ads, or contracts. 

• Translate documents or summarize reports. 

• Identify gaps in inventory or operations. 

You don’t need a data scientist. You just need to start using the tools. AI levels the playing field for small businesses and startups — helping them think like big companies. 

READ ALSO: HubtelWay AI: An Artificial Intelligence Solution to Enhance Organizational Culture 

Final Thoughts: Relax, But Don’t Sleep 

AI is not a threat. It’s a tool. 

It will eliminate repetitive work. It will accelerate productivity. It will create new jobs that don’t exist yet. And it will allow developing countries like Ghana to leapfrog challenges we’ve struggled with for decades. 

But we must start now. To the youth, the professionals, the policymakers, the entrepreneurs — relax. AI isn’t here to take your job. It’s here to help you do more, do better, and move faster. 

And Ghana? 

We’re just getting started. 

This article was written by the research and engineering team at Hubtel’s AI Lab — a unit dedicated to exploring and applying artificial intelligence to local problems across commerce, public services, and digital infrastructure in Ghana. 

The Honourable Minister for Justice & Attorney General, The Honourable Minister for Communication, Digitalization and Innovation, The Honourable Minister of Youth Development & Empowerment, Director of Fintech at the Bank of Ghana, Chairman of the Audit Committee of Hubtel’s Board of Directors, CEOs, Distinguished Guests, Head of Departments, Partners of Hubtel, Staff of Hubtel, Our Friends, Ladies and Gentlemen,

I’m sorry to disappoint all of you this evening. Unfortunately, I do not have a speech to give.

I have instead written a letter to God in the hopes that as you pray with us this evening, you will help me deliver this message to him.

My letter reads.

Dear God,

Tonight, I come before You not to ask, but to thank You.

20 years ago, none of us knew what lay ahead. Only You did.

When Ernest and I missed the chance to enter medical school at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology — a moment that felt like the death of our life’s plan and that of parents’ dreams. You were quiet, but not absent. The door closed gently, and even in our disappointment, You were there, building a better purpose for our future. If only we could learn how to wait, study, and get ready.

We didn’t know it then, but that rejection was the beginning of the redirection — a divine pivot. I asked You for guidance during those uncertain times. I prayed, “Lead me, oh Lord. Guide me to be useful. Use me as a vessel.” And You did — not in the lecture halls or the laboratory, but in the corridors of life, through failure and friendship, through events that seemed ordinary at the time, but were heaven-sent.

You gave us the greatest education outside the classroom. In one of the lessons, I ran for political office as President of the science faculty and lost — not just lost, but lost badly and pathetically. It was so painful, but You had better plans for me.

You placed me in a different kind of leadership — not through votes, but through favour. When Francis Kwantwi Barima handed me the role of Republic Hall Week Chairman, I didn’t know that I was about to learn the very lessons I would need one day to start and run a company.

That hall week — that event — it became our proving ground. Ernest and I, along with seven others, including our most tireless teammate, the now Honorable Minister of Communication, Digitalisation & Innovation, Hon. Sam George, we gave it everything.

And You rewarded our effort. The success of that event gave us hope. It gave us belief. It gave us a can-do spirit. It gave us self-confidence to start anything. It gave us direction. It gave us Hubtel.

Dear God, I still remember the morning of the 12th of May, 2005. The last day of school. I stood before my mirror and prayed to You. And when I opened my eyes, I felt ready. I walked out with courage, not knowing what would come, but knowing You were with me.

That same day, I went to Adum and printed our first business cards. No investors. No office. No fanfare. Just a name and a dream, and the promise of Your guidance. That was the day You allowed Hubtel to be born.

In the beginning, we didn’t know what we were doing. We only knew that as long as we stood for good and pursued love for our customers and mankind, You will be with us.

Dear God, we remember with gratitude the early years — the fragile, uncertain days between May 2005 and December 2008 — when faith was often our only capital.

When Ernest and I returned to Accra after our time at KNUST, You reunited us with our dear brother, Leslie Gyimah. Teaming up with him, You gave us more than just a laptop and a car. You gave us courage — the kind that comes from old bonds and shared dreams and a special friendship that can only be built at St. Augustine’s College. This bond became the foundation of something greater. This made us all give freely — of our time, our tools, our spirit — and in those fragile early days, Your quiet support carried more weight than anyone will probably ever, ever know.

Last April, You called Leslie home. And while our hearts still ache, we remain forever grateful that You placed him in the Hubtel story. His fingerprints are on the foundation of this company, and his memory will live in everything we continue to build.

Dear God, when You rewarded our labour with our first sale in October 2005, it was a cheque for GHS 500 from North American Airlines. It meant everything. We carried that cheque from bank to bank for over six weeks, trying to convince someone, anyone, that we were a real business. And in that waiting, You taught us our first real lesson in patience and persistence.

Then more cheques came — from travel agencies, old school associations, churches, even people sending SMS messages for parties and funerals. It wasn’t glamorous. But it was real. We ended that first year with gross revenues of GHS 6,000. We saw it not as profit, but as confirmation that You were working. Working for us, working through us, working for our good, working — as long as we did your good.

While we worked hard, we fumbled through letters and proposals and invoice and code. We stumbled through meetings and presentations and those moody live demos. We chased ideas that didn’t work, and some that barely survived. But somehow, You kept our drive alive — sometimes just enough for the next day, just enough for the next idea, just enough for the next good signal, or just enough for the next prayer.

Through all the early days we couldn’t pay ourselves, all the early days we sacrificed everything, days we wondered if we were just being foolish, You whispered to our hearts, “Keep going.” And we obeyed.

Dear God, today we remember with gratitude the year 2006, when we began receiving attention from the more formal sectors — banks, insurance companies and even the Bank of Ghana. Somehow, You helped us carry ourselves well enough to enter the boardrooms that once intimidated us. There, You placed several mentors in our path — IT managers like Mr. Romeo Bugyei, Mr. Joe Adjei, Mr. Alex Kissi, Mr. Tamakloe and many others. They didn’t just buy from us; they shaped us. We watched them run their offices, structure their meetings, manage their people. And we adapted their ways. They were quiet teachers. And we thank You for each of them.

By the end of 2008, when our gross revenues exceeded GHS 1.2 million, we came to You with a new prayer: Lord, give us a place to grow. A place to plant ourselves and build.

You answered that prayer through Mr. Gideon Anim — our landlord who became so much more to us. A man whose humility, guidance, patience, and fatherliness could only have been heaven-sent. Through him, You showed us that provision doesn’t always look like a miracle — sometimes it comes wrapped in wisdom and presence.

Those years laid the foundation for our first office building. Quiet, steady, and sacred.

Then came a new dimension. A season of favor we had not seen before. In 2009, You shifted something in our favour. The mobile networks that once overlooked us began to notice. And once again, Your timing was perfect. Because we were ready; sharpened by the quiet years and strengthened by discipline. Our preparedness met the opportunity You sent through the doors of the telcos, and a new era began: premium SMS billing.

Through the next few years, from 2010 onward, You allowed us to become a conduit for information and access. Through SMS content messages, millions of subscribers across Ghana began to experience something new — personalized services in banking, entertainment, education and premium notifications. We were helping build not just a new digital culture but also preparing Ghana for a new age of service digitization.

And then between 2011 and 2015, You allowed us to rise to a position we had never imagined. Out of 47 value-added service providers, Hubtel claimed nearly 40% of the market. We had matured. We had earned respect. And when MTN Ghana named us, their Top Revenue Earning Partner, we knew it wasn’t just an award — it was a quiet confirmation from You, that we had stayed the course.

But even in the height of success, You reminded us not to be complacent. In 2015, as internet access grew, the world began to change again. The very market we had helped pioneer began to disappear slowly. Customers began to prefer online experiences over SMS ones. But with all these going on, some of the early successes had gotten too much into our heads.

Even when the signs of decline became undeniable and the market was changing fast, we moved to ignore these signs, relied on our own knowledge, and responded. We expanded — new hires, new regions, new countries. At first, it felt like progress. There was energy again. But the lessons came quickly. The declining momentum of late 2015 rolled into 2016 and collided with reality. We learned the hard way — what not to do, how not to scale a tech company.

Finally, in 2016 our growth slowed. The momentum dipped. It was hard. Very hard. But it was NOT a punishment — it was a new prompting.

You were calling us again: calling us to reinvent, calling us to rediscover, calling us to build for what’s next, not just what was.

Dear God, as I have mentioned to You several times, we are very grateful for the growing pains You put us through from 2016 to 2018. When our momentum stalled, and the outlook became bleak, we felt it — not just in the numbers but in our spirits. The path ahead was no longer clear. But even in the fog, You sent us help.

You sent us Stanford SEED — a gift we never expected. Through the Stanford Graduate School of Business and the guiding presence of a man named Hans Daniel Nilsson, You gave us new eyes to see. We began learning, truly learning, how to build for scale — not just to grow, but to grow well.

By 2018, despite several changes, we were almost broken.

Too many product failures. Too many wrong turns. Too many hard situations. We were battered — not just as a company, but as people. We questioned ourselves. We doubted our decisions. We wondered if the best days were behind us.

But You, oh God, had prepared a remnant.

A few among us were ready to begin again — not the loudest, not the most decorated, not the most skilled, not most gifted, but the humblest. They were willing to lay down old knowledge, unlearn old ways, and trust You for something entirely new.

And from that brokenness, You brought forth a rebirth. In just one year, You led us to build an entirely new platform. A new company, really. New systems. New processes. A new vision. The ashes of failure became the soil of resurrection.

And through it all, You never left us. You generated new strength for the people You had prepared for our rebirth. You surrounded us with a new team spirit — and elevated our relationships from just coworkers to brothers and sisters in purpose. We have become family. Your people who have become the Strategy Committee of Hubtel.

Dear God, I am happy that the humble people You gifted us with from those days of difficulty have become the people who have believed in the new vision, even when we all struggled to explain what Hubtel was becoming. They stayed. They built. They trusted. And they too became vessels in Your plan.

Thank You oh God for the gift of Augustine Adjei, Bill Inkoom, Eric Gershon Akoto, Daniel Frimpong, Elsie Bram, Francis Wilson, Eben Boffour, Owusu Marfo, Michael Adom, Patrick Asare Frimpong, Jonathan Ansah, and their teams.

Even though we have seen our fair share of storms — competitors with more money, ideas that failed, unspoken intentions that became lawsuits, partners who walked away, and loved ones we lost too soon. Through it all, You were there in the quiet after every storm, rebuilding us with each small victory and reshaping us with each small defeat.

Dear God, from these loins of near despair the year 2020 came upon us with a world reeling from uncertainty and pandemic. We are most grateful that even in our fear of what was to come You began to lift our eyes again. Slowly, steadily, You restored our footing in the most surprising style.

In the midst of the pandemic, fear and uncertainty, You helped us listen more closely — to our customers, to one another, and most importantly, to You. And in that stillness, You gave us clarity: that our purpose was never just to build a platform, but to build systems for the progress of the people of Ghana. To create order, simplicity, elegance, and access in the simple transactions of everyday life that we all take for granted.

You helped us see that commerce — the simple act of buying and selling — could become a force for connection, inclusion, and even healing. You allowed the work of our hands to find favor — in communities, in government policy, in delivery systems and in national payment platforms. You gave us voice not to boast, but to serve.

And so tonight, as we did on day one, with hands open and heads bowed, we do not celebrate ourselves. We mark 20 years of this journey with a pause and not an applause, and we bow our heads in gratitude to say: Lead us, Lord. Lead us into the next chapter with the same grace that brought us this far. Make Hubtel a place of hope — for young graduates, for striving retailers, for uncertain start-ups, for business owners, and even for struggling large companies. Make us a bastion of innovation — not for fame, but for impact. Make us a company operated for good — deeply human, deeply honest, and deeply useful. Let Hubtel be a reminder to all Ghanaians that when You are in the story, no beginning is too small, no loss is final, and no dream is out of reach.

Thank You God for opening doors we never knocked on.

Thank You God for bringing us opportunities we didn’t even know how to pray for.

Thank You for making Hubtel one of the early successful Ghanaian enterprises and a testament to Your promise that more companies like Hubtel are coming from Ghana, built by Ghanaians, for the good of the people of the Republic of Ghana.

Thank You, God, for constantly stretching our faith and repeatedly teaching us that growth isn’t always in the numbers, and that sometimes, it is in the resilience to show up again and again and again.

Thank You God for teaching us not to chase success, but to seek usefulness. And that in our pursuit to be useful, You give us success — in Your own time.

Thank You God for being there with your ever-present guidance, when we had to pivot and change direction, when our numbers outgrew our management capacity, when we became an uncomfortable political topic, when the media negatively noticed, when the public misunderstood what we stood for, and when unfamiliar storms brewed. Thank You for writing it all for our good.

Thank You for every mistake that taught us humility.

Thank You for every small win that reminded us of Your favour.

Thank You for every single person who walked with us — from the beginning until now.

Thank You for how far You have brought all of us gathered here tonight.

Thank You for how far You have brought Hubtel.

Thank You for how far You have brought the people and the Republic of Ghana.

In Jesus’ name, I pray with thanksgiving. Amen.

Thank You all for your attention.

Kokomlemle, Accra – April 2025: Hubtel, the leading Ghanaian payment services provider commemorates its 20th anniversary this year. Since its founding in 2005, the company has been on a mission to make it easier for businesses to connect with customers.

Over the past 20 years, Hubtel’s story has been defined not only by bold decisions and breakthrough innovations but also by our willingness to learn from failure. Each setback has served as a stepping stone toward growth.  

The brand story started with SMSGH enhancing business-to-customer communication through bulk SMS messaging which quickly gained traction across the country.

What began as a small idea from three graduates on the campus of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology has evolved into a company with the potential to become Ghana’s first tech unicorn.

As of 2023, Hubtel had securely processed nearly GHS 160 billion worth of transactions and transfers, a staggering achievement that solidifies its position as the leading payment services provider in Ghana. 

Today, the company serves over 8,000 businesses, 12 million customers and works with 932 delivery riders across eight cities in Ghana. The significant expansion from just three founders to a team of 722 talented professionals is a testament to its capacity to innovate and lead in the competitive fintech space. 

Speaking on the significance of this milestone, Alex Bram, Co-founder and CEO of Hubtel, said, “Reaching this 20-year milestone reflects our relentless focus on innovation and community. It’s a moment of pride, and we are proud of the role we’ve played in Ghana’s fintech growth.” 

Hubtel has pioneered innovations that have simplified commerce through its power app, enhanced government service delivery, and improved financial inclusion. The company’s Corporate Social Responsibility arm, Hubtel Pledge, has supported significant community projects.

In 2024, it contributed to the renovation of an 18-unit classroom block at St. Augustine’s College, which includes a state-of-the-art coding lab.

They also partnered with Amazon Web Services in 2023, to support the AWS B.A.S.I.C.S Summer Camp. This further highlights their commitment to community growth, with staff volunteering their expertise to train the next generation of tech leaders. 

Ernest Apenteng, Co-Founder and General Manager, emphasized, “Our journey is not just about numbers but about impacting lives. Hubtel’s focus has always been on empowering communities, and that commitment will continue.” 

In addition to these initiatives, Hubtel was recognized at the Ghana Fintech Awards in 2022, winning multiple accolades including Fintech Company of the Year, Fintech Platform of the Year, and IT/Tech Firm of the Year. These awards highlight the Hubtel journey and its role as a leader in driving financial innovation in Ghana. 

As part of the celebration, Hubtel will be hosting an exclusive thanksgiving dinner, bringing together partners, customers, and employees to celebrate this milestone, reflect on our achievements, and look ahead to an even more exciting future. 

This celebration is for every business, customer, and partner who has been part of our journey. As we step into the future, we are not merely chasing possibilities; we’re shaping the future of digital payments and e-commerce in Africa.  

With a solid foundation and an unwavering commitment to innovation, Hubtel remains dedicated to driving Africa forward by ensuring that everyone can find and pay for everyday essentials.  

Here’s to 20 years of connecting businesses to communities! 

Let’s be honest, running a business is already a full-time job. The last thing you need is to spend extra time digging through menus, second-guessing transactions, or dealing with multiple steps. Your Hubtel Merchant Portal is supposed to make handling money easier, not add extra work to your day. That’s why we’ve made useful updates to improve your experience. 

Let’s go through what’s changed and how these updates will make your work easier. 

The Money Tab is Now Simpler to Navigate 

Before, clicking on the Money tab opened a long list of menus, making it a bit of a maze to find what you needed. Now, that’s all changed. The money tab has been reorganised, so everything related to your accounts, approvals, and transfers is now in one dashboard instead of being spread across multiple submenus.

This means no more digging around. You just need to open the money tab on the side navigation, and everything is right there in front of you. We’ve also added a hide balance feature for privacy. So, if you’re in a public place, you don’t have to worry about anyone peeking at your total balance. All you have to do is tap on the eye icon to view or hide your account balance. 

A Better Mobile Experience  

We know many merchants use their phones to check payments and approve transactions, but the previous setup wasn’t mobile-friendly. Transaction tables had too many columns, forcing you to scroll sideways just to see basic details.

Now, that’s been fixed. The new mobile design automatically adjusts to smaller screens, so you don’t have to scroll sideways all the time for a better view. 

Transfers & Payments Are Now Faster & Smarter 

Making a transfer used to come with an extra step; you had to manually select the correct account before sending money. Now, that’s been taken care of for you.

The correct POS account is preselected automatically, helping you avoid errors and the endless scrolling when sending money. We’ve also added a required description field for transfers, making it easier to keep track of what you sent the money for. 

For bulk payments, you’ll now see the total amount before completing the transfer, so you always know how much is being sent. Plus, there’s a new history tab that lets you track past bulk payments without having to dig through your transaction records. 

Paying Employees & Suppliers is Easier Than Ever. 

If you regularly pay employees and suppliers, you’ll love this update. Instead of having separate sections for each, everything is now managed from one screen, making payment tracking quicker.

There’s also a new history tab that records all payments made to employees and suppliers, so you can always go back and check previous transactions. 

Professional Payslip Design  

We have updated the payslip design. The new payslips look more professional and can be used for official purposes, such as loan applications.

Detailed Account Statements 

Your account statements now give you a detailed breakdown of every deposit and withdrawal. Plus, you can download them anytime for your records. 

New User Roles & Stronger Security 

We’ve made some changes to user roles and security settings. This ensures that only the right people have access to sensitive financial details.

First, some role names have been updated: Super Admins are now called Owners, Administrators are now Finance Managers, and Managers are now Payment Managers. 

Along with the name changes, we’ve tightened security. Payment Managers, for example, can no longer see total business balances, they can only view transaction details.

When it comes to approvals, only Owners with approval rights can approve or reject payments. This ensures that critical financial decisions stay in the hands of the right people. 

Pending Payments Now Easy to Find 

Tracking pending payments is easier than before. Pending transactions have been separated into their section so they don’t get mixed up with other payments.

Access your pending payments from the dropdown menu in the top-right corner. ​This feature is available for users who can make payment requests only. 

Easy Approval Process 

If you’re responsible for approvals, you’ll now see a clear breakdown of what’s waiting for approval. Only Owners with approval rights can decide whether to approve or reject payments.

This makes the approval process structured and transparent. Access all approval requests from the dropdown menu in the top-right corner. ​This feature remains exclusively available to business owners and super administrators with approval rights.​ 

Sent the Wrong Approval Request? Now You Can Fix It 

One of the biggest updates is that your employees can now cancel an approval request if it hasn’t been approved yet. Previously, once a request was sent for approval, it was locked in, even if there was an error.

Now, if you realise you’ve sent the wrong amount, need to change payment details, or no longer need to make the payment, you can simply cancel it before it’s processed. This feature ensures that mistakes don’t turn into irreversible transactions. 

Try it Out Now!

These updates are already live, so the next time you log into your Merchant Portal, you’ll notice that everything is better organised for your use. Go ahead and explore the updates.