By: Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
GCB Bank is positioning itself at the forefront of Ghana’s fast-growing digital creative economy with a bold proposal to provide a direct and reliable payment framework for TikTok content creators across the country.
A delegation from the bank, led by its Chief of Staff, Mr. Abraham Ferguson, on Tuesday paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George (MP), to explore a potential partnership with TikTok that would ensure Ghanaian creators receive their rightful earnings without relying on third-party intermediaries.
During the meeting, GCB Bank emphasized its technological readiness and financial infrastructure to serve as the payment gateway of choice. “The bank possesses robust connectivity with MasterCard and Visa, enabling it to accept and make payments directly onto cards,” Mr. Ferguson explained, adding that GCB also has the capability to facilitate payouts through MoMo and direct bank transfers.
He noted that the initiative is aimed at giving Ghanaian content creators a secure channel to cash out earnings from their viral videos as well as manage gifts received on the platform. “The bank’s primary aim is to find a way for Ghanaians to get paid for their content and manage cash-outs for gifts received,” Ferguson said.
The discussions gained strong support from Hon. Samuel Nartey George, who underscored the need for a local and transparent mechanism to support the creative economy. Addressing the meeting, which also included TikTok’s West Africa representative, Ms. Tokumbo Ibrahim, the Minister argued that adopting GCB Bank as an official payment channel would not only protect creators but also maximize their financial gains.
“By eliminating the use of third parties, we reduce unnecessary deductions and ensure Ghanaian talent gets the full value of their work,” he stressed.
TikTok’s representative welcomed the proposal and committed to review its feasibility, describing it as a promising move towards empowering African creators. The discussions concluded with an agreement to explore technical and regulatory steps required for implementation.
Mr. Ferguson confirmed that GCB Bank is ready to act immediately once approval is given. “This would involve formalising a payment framework in consultation with relevant financial authorities and establishing technical teams to facilitate seamless integration,” he said.
If adopted, the framework could mark a turning point for Ghana’s digital creators, many of whom struggle with receiving timely and transparent payments for their online content. By providing direct access to their earnings, the initiative promises to strengthen Ghana’s presence in the global creator economy while fostering financial inclusion.
For now, all eyes are on TikTok’s response, which could set in motion a new chapter for Ghanaian content creators in the age of digital entrepreneurship.
