Ghana is advocating for proactive policy initiatives to strategically position itself and the African continent within the global artificial intelligence (AI) landscape.
During his address at the Ishmael Yamson and Associates Business Roundtable held at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra, ICT Minister Samuel Nartey George emphasised the importance of unlocking Africa’s digital infrastructure, trade, energy, and leadership to enhance global engagement.
Bringing together various policymakers, industry specialists, and development partners, the event sought to identify long-term growth opportunities for the continent.
George warned that Africa’s window to establish a strong foothold in the AI sector is closing, underscoring the need for coordinated, forward-thinking action. He identified several priority areas crucial for advancing Ghana’s digital agenda.
Highlighting the significance of digital connectivity, the minister argued it should be regarded as a fundamental necessity rather than merely a luxury. He also underscored the concept of data sovereignty, calling data a vital national resource that must be protected.
According to George, maintaining control over data assets is vital for fostering innovation in critical sectors such as healthcare, financial technology, and national security. He pointed out ongoing efforts to construct robust, locally relevant datasets that will empower AI systems to better represent the realities of the African context.
Collaborations between the government and notable academic institutions, including the University of Ghana, the University of Cape Coast, and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, are currently underway to develop local-language AI models that accurately capture the intricacies of Ghanaian dialects.
The ICT ministry also emphasised the urgent need to enhance digital skills nationwide. The government’s One Million Coders Programme is a strategic initiative to cultivate a strong pipeline of talent.
In addition, George discussed the need for a modern regulatory framework. The ministry is actively revising outdated ICT laws and drafting new legislation to address emerging technologies, data harmonisation, and information integrity.
“The minister noted that the legislative reform process has involved extensive consultations with stakeholders, ensuring a thorough review before submission to Cabinet and Parliament,” the ministry explained.
He further detailed plans to create a centralised national data exchange hub, designed to improve interoperability among public institutions and simplify data access.
George reaffirmed the government’s commitment to nurturing innovation through responsible regulation, emphasising that a balanced approach is essential for constructing a resilient and inclusive digital ecosystem.
