Digital Advancements in Ghana: Minister Proposes Ambitious Overhauls in Access, Artificial Intelligence, and 5G Infrastructure
### Ghana Advances Digital Transformation Agenda
In a recent announcement, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, shared updates on Ghana's digital transformation journey. The country is making strides in various sectors, including infrastructure, innovation, and international collaborations.
#### Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Ghana is set to launch its National AI Strategy in Q3 2025, developed in collaboration with Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), UNESCO, and the British High Commission. This strategy aims to position Ghana as a leading AI hub in Africa by 2028. The CEO of Mpontu Technologies has emphasized the need for strategic investments in AI infrastructure, research, data systems, and talent development to integrate AI effectively into Ghana's digital ecosystem.
#### Data Protection and Cybersecurity
Details on specific legislative reforms or updates regarding data protection and cybersecurity are currently unavailable. However, the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations is likely to address these aspects as part of its broader digital innovation agenda.
#### Cloud Computing
More information about Ghana's current status on cloud computing adoption or strategies is not currently available.
#### Digital Trade
Ghana is exploring opportunities for digital innovation through international collaborations, such as potential partnerships with China to harness digital innovation for economic growth.
#### Ongoing Legislative Reforms
The Ministry is leading various initiatives, including the "Girls in ICT" program, but specific legislative reforms related to digital transformation are yet to be detailed.
#### International Collaborations
A significant development is the $1 billion memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Ghana and the UAE to establish the Ghana-UAE Innovations and Technology hub, which could significantly boost digital innovation in Ghana.
#### Sector Reforms
The government is implementing sector reforms tied to spectrum management, consumer pricing regulations, and licensing updates. These changes aim to improve the digital landscape and foster a conducive environment for businesses and citizens.
#### Digital Skills Training
The One Million Coders Programme, an initiative aimed at training 50,000 beneficiaries by year-end, has already trained 859 youth, more than half of whom are women, in various locations across Ghana.
#### Digital Payment Solutions
The Ministry is working with the Bank of Ghana to restore full PayPal access and enhance digital payment solutions.
#### Collaboration and Accountability
The Minister called for collaboration from the private sector and civil society to support and hold the Ministry accountable as it works to deliver inclusive digital progress.
#### Infrastructure Development
The Next Generation Infrastructure Company (NGIC) is set to activate 350 5G-ready cell sites by Q4 2025, with 50 sites going live in Accra and Kumasi.
#### Regulatory Clarity for Startups
The Ghana Startup Bill, offering tax incentives and regulatory clarity for startups, is expected to pass by December 2025.
#### Data Cost Reduction and Improved High-Use Plans
Data costs have been reduced, with mobile network operators adjusting their tariffs. High-use data plans have also improved, with MTN's GHS399 package now offering 214GB, up from 92GB.
#### Engagements with TikTok and MultiChoice Ghana
Engagements with TikTok and MultiChoice Ghana are ongoing, focusing on content safety, fair compensation for creators, and subscription pricing.
#### Anti-Misinformation Bill
A draft National Anti-Misinformation Bill is being prepared for Parliament.
Overall, Ghana is moving forward with its digital transformation, but there is a need for more comprehensive reforms and investments, particularly in AI, data protection, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. The country's digital future looks promising, with various initiatives underway to drive innovation and inclusion.
[1] Source: https://www.modci.gov.gh/ [2] Source: https://www.ghanaweb.com/ [3] Source: https://www.modci.gov.gh/ [4] Source: https://www.modci.gov.gh/ [5] Source: https://www.modci.gov.gh/
- The National AI Strategy, due to be launched in Q3 2025, highlights Ghana's ambition to establish itself as a leading AI hub in Africa by 2028, requiring strategic investments in AI infrastructure, research, data systems, and talent development.
- The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations is set to address aspects of data protection and cybersecurity as part of its broader digital innovation agenda, but specific legislative reforms or updates are currently unavailable.
- Although more information about Ghana's current status on cloud computing adoption or strategies is not available, the Next Generation Infrastructure Company (NGIC) aims to activate 350 5G-ready cell sites by Q4 2025.
- Ghana is exploring opportunities for digital trade through international collaborations, such as potential partnerships with China to harness digital innovation for economic growth.
- The Ghana Startup Bill, offering tax incentives and regulatory clarity for startups, is expected to pass by December 2025, providing a more conducive environment for businesses and fostering innovation in the startups sector.
