Digital Minister of Ghana Advocates for Shift from Reliance to Resilience Across Africa
Ghana is embarking on a transformative journey to establish itself as the AI capital of West Africa. This ambitious goal is being pursued through significant partnerships and investments aimed at building local AI capacity, fostering innovation, and supporting startups.
At the heart of this endeavour is the National Data Exchange, a secure platform for public and private data sharing, currently being developed in Ghana. The platform is expected to facilitate collaboration and drive innovation in various sectors.
The Ghana-UAE Tech and Innovation Hub, a $1 billion project in Dawa, is another key initiative aimed at attracting global companies and nurturing local talent. This hub will undoubtedly contribute to Ghana's digital transformation and AI ambitions.
Hon. Samuel Nartey George, the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations in Ghana, is spearheading this digital revolution. In a recent speech at the 10th anniversary of Mobex Africa in Accra, Hon. George emphasised Ghana's ambition to become the AI capital of West Africa and called for a continental reset.
To align its ICT laws with global technological advancements, Ghana is preparing 15 new legislative bills. This move underscores the government's commitment to creating a conducive environment for AI development and innovation.
Google is a leading partner in Ghana's AI journey. As part of a $37 million investment package, Google is establishing an AI Community Center in Accra. This hub will serve as a learning, innovation, and collaboration space for students, developers, entrepreneurs, and the local community. The center will host technical workshops, research exchanges, and community events focused on AI applications tailored to Africa’s unique challenges such as food security, healthcare, and education.
Google is also providing 100,000 fully funded Google Career Certificate scholarships in Ghana for higher education students to acquire skills in AI basics, data analytics, cybersecurity, and related areas. Furthermore, a catalytic fund initiative is supporting over 100 AI-driven startups to scale solutions addressing sectors like health, agriculture, and education.
Another strategic initiative is the AI Africa Project, endorsed by Ghana’s Office of the President. Spearheaded by the Vanuatu Trade Commission Ghana, this continental project aims to train over 1 million Ghanaians and 10 million Africans in AI and emerging technologies.
These initiatives focus on localized AI research, education and skilling, startup ecosystem development, and pan-African collaboration, positioning Ghana as a pioneering AI hub in West Africa.
However, Hon. Samuel Nartey George stressed the importance of responsible regulation, stating that Africa must regulate responsibly. He also called for a shift from digital dependence to digital determination, advocating for a reset that involves creating, rather than just consuming.
In conclusion, Ghana's ambitious plan to become the AI capital of West Africa is well underway. With strategic partnerships, investments, and a commitment to responsible regulation, Ghana is poised to lead the way in AI development across the continent.
Technology lies at the core of Ghana's journey towards becoming the AI capital of West Africa, with significant partnerships like the one with Google investing in AI education and skilling. The infrastructure, such as the Ghana-UAE Tech and Innovation Hub, is being developed to attract global companies and nurture local talent, making use of artificial intelligence to drive innovation.
