The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has announced that President John Dramani Mahama will officially launch Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy on 24 April.
This move marks a significant milestone in the nation’s digital transformation agenda, as disclosed during the Artificial Intelligence Readiness Assessment Methodology (AI-RAM) programme held at the Best Western Premier Hotel in Accra.
The Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram explained that the strategy has already received Cabinet approval and is designed to drive AI adoption across all sectors of the economy.
The Minister highlighted that the framework will provide far-reaching benefits for agriculture, healthcare, and financial services. He stated that
“This marks a decisive step in Ghana’s path towards a responsible, innovative and globally competitive artificial intelligence ecosystem,” noting that “AI will help farmers boost productivity, assist medical professionals in diagnosis, and increase financial inclusion.”
The Minister emphasised that Ghana is exceptionally well-positioned to lead in AI development, citing a mobile penetration rate exceeding 100 per cent and a total of more than 38 million mobile subscriptions nationwide. He stressed that “Ghana is not starting from zero. We have already laid strong and credible foundations for a thriving digital economy.”
Despite this progress, the Minister acknowledged several key challenges, including the necessity to strengthen data governance, expand digital skills, and invest in research infrastructure. To address these needs, he revealed that the government has secured approval to establish a $250 million AI compute centre, which aims to support local innovation and reduce reliance on foreign technologies.
Furthermore, the Minister underscored the importance of ensuring that AI development remains ethical and inclusive. “AI must advance inclusion instead of advancing inequality,” he cautioned, advocating for policies that protect privacy and promote fairness.
He extended his gratitude to UNESCO for its leadership in promoting ethical AI governance and acknowledged the European Union’s continued support for Ghana’s digital transformation.
In his concluding remarks, the Minister noted that “Government cannot build Ghana’s AI future alone. We need researchers, startups, private sector investment, and civil society.”
He urged all stakeholders to contribute ideas to guide the implementation of the strategy, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth and position Ghana as a leading AI hub capable of serving millions across the African continent.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana