CBL, Afreximbank Hold Seminar on Cross-Border Payments

MONROVIA, June 11, 2026 — The Central Bank of Liberia and Afreximbank on Tuesday held a one-day seminar in Monrovia to discuss ways to strengthen correspondent banking and cross-border payment systems for Liberian banks. The event at the Royal Grand Hotel brought together senior executives from financial institutions, banking professionals and members of the media.

During the seminar, Afreximbank presented its Cross-Border Interbank Payment System and AfPAY platform, which officials said could expand settlement options, lower transaction costs and improve access to regional payment channels.

Central Bank Executive Governor Henry F. Saamoi said Liberia’s economic agenda requires stronger financial infrastructure to support regional trade and cross-border transactions. He said Afreximbank’s participation in China’s Cross-Border Interbank Payment System was significant because of China’s role as a major trading partner for Liberia and could help broaden access to renminbi clearing.

The program included presentations on AfPAY, compliance, treasury management and trade finance by Afreximbank officials Omar Salah Eldin, Fungai Nyamahowa, Yves Mafolo and Cyril Bitanda. Participants also held bilateral meetings on possible partnerships.

Saamoi said Liberia’s priorities include strengthening correspondent banking links, expanding digital payments and financial inclusion through the central bank’s Inclusive Instant Payment System, and reducing transaction costs for businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises seeking trade finance.

He said closer cooperation among multilateral institutions, regulators and commercial banks would be necessary to advance regional financial integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area. Saamoi also said the central bank plans to host a national conference later this year on resolving non-performing loans.

The seminar ended with certificate presentations and remarks from officials urging participants to turn the discussions into practical steps for Liberia’s banking sector.