Bono Regional Minister Urges Greater Investor Education to Combat Fraud at SEC Event

SUNYANI, Ghana — On Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026, Bono Regional Minister Joseph Addae Akwaboa addressed participants at the Securities and Exchange Commission’s “Time with the SEC” Investor Education Programme held in the Sunyani Technical University auditorium.

Akwaboa called for intensified investor education and financial literacy to protect residents from fraudulent investment schemes and to foster sustainable economic growth in the Bono Region.

He stressed that the public must understand investment products and associated risks before committing money.

“Do not invest because somebody promises you quick and extraordinary returns. Invest because you understand the product, the risks, the institution involved and the expected returns,”

The minister warned that unsuspecting investors, especially youth, are vulnerable to scams promoted through social media and other digital platforms. He urged people to verify whether companies and schemes are authorised, to read terms and conditions, and to avoid decisions driven by peer pressure or persuasive advertisements.

Akwaboa called for stronger collaboration among government bodies, financial institutions, traditional and religious leaders, the media and civil‑society organisations to deepen public awareness of investor protection.

He said financial literacy should become an integral part of the region’s development agenda, enabling young people, farmers, workers, entrepreneurs and small‑business owners to save, invest and protect their resources. He highlighted the capital market’s potential to mobilise savings for agriculture, agro‑processing, tourism, manufacturing and other productive activities, and encouraged businesses to improve corporate governance and financial reporting to enhance access to capital.

University vice‑chancellor recounts personal loss

Prof. Kwadwo Adinkrah‑Appiah, vice‑chancellor of Sunyani Technical University, recounted losing money in a collapsed investment scheme and warned Ghanaians to be cautious. “I did a little. And when I did it, three months down the line, everything was over. This was quite unfortunate, even for me as a professor,” he said, adding that a foreman had also lost funds intended for a painting project after investing in a similar scheme.

Akwaboa urged the SEC to extend investor‑education programmes beyond regional capitals to districts and communities, so more people can understand the financial system and identify fraudulent schemes.

Authorities said efforts to raise financial awareness will continue as part of the region’s strategy to protect investors and stimulate economic development.