Technology News from Ghana

The latest technology news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Tesla Set to Launch Autonomous 'Cybercab' Ride-Hailing Service in Austin Starting This August
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Tesla Set to Launch Autonomous 'Cybercab' Ride-Hailing Service in Austin Starting This August

Tesla is poised to reach a significant milestone in the evolution of autonomous transport with the anticipated public launch of its dedicated robotaxi, the Cybercab. Scheduled to commence operations as early as August, the initial rollout is set to take place in Austin, Texas, the site of the company's global headquarters. This move represents a pivotal shift for Tesla as it transitions from a traditional electric vehicle manufacturer to a provider of autonomous mobility services, a vision long championed by the company's leadership. The Cybercab is specifically engineered for autonomy, featuring a radical interior design that completely eliminates traditional driving controls, such as a steering wheel and pedals. By removing these manual interfaces, Tesla is signaling its total reliance on its advanced artificial intelligence and 'Full Self-Driving' software suites. To ensure safety and operational efficiency during the early stages of the rollout, the service will initially be limited to Tesla employees, allowing the company to refine the user experience and gather critical performance data in a controlled environment. This launch is a cornerstone of Tesla’s broader strategy to establish a proprietary autonomous ride-hailing network. By deploying a fleet of purpose-built vehicles, Tesla aims to compete directly with established autonomous vehicle operators. The selection of Austin as the pilot city provides the company with proximity to its Gigafactory Texas operations, ensuring that technical and logistical support is readily available as the fleet begins its first real-world passenger assignments. As the tech industry watches closely, the successful deployment of the Cybercab could have far-reaching implications for urban mobility and the future of the automotive market. Beyond providing a new revenue stream, a functional robotaxi service would validate Tesla's multi-billion dollar investment in autonomous software. Following the initial employee phase in Austin, the company is expected to look toward scaling the service to additional markets, provided the technology meets the rigorous safety standards required for full public access.

Deputy Minister Sukparu Outlines Ghana’s Path to 70% 5G Population Coverage by 2028
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Deputy Minister Sukparu Outlines Ghana’s Path to 70% 5G Population Coverage by 2028

The Government of Ghana, under the administration of President John Mahama, has announced an ambitious target to achieve 70% population coverage for 5G technology by the close of 2028. This strategic goal is central to the government's broader digital transformation agenda, aimed at positioning Ghana as a leader in the regional digital economy. Deputy Minister for Communication, Mohammed Adams Sukparu, unveiled the roadmap, emphasizing that the expansion of 5G is not merely about faster internet speeds but serves as a foundational pillar for comprehensive national development and modernization. To facilitate this rapid expansion, the Ministry is prioritizing a comprehensive review of existing spectrum policies. Deputy Minister Sukparu highlighted that these reforms are designed to incentivize private sector investment while ensuring that the public derives maximum value from the country’s digital resources. By streamlining access to spectrum and lowering barriers for telecommunications providers, the government expects to foster a more competitive environment that accelerates infrastructure deployment across both urban and rural communities, bridging the digital divide. Beyond physical infrastructure, the government is placing significant focus on human capital through initiatives like the One Million Coders Programme and the implementation of the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy. These programs are intended to equip the Ghanaian workforce, particularly the youth, with the necessary technical skills to navigate and thrive in a 5G-enabled economy. By integrating high-speed connectivity with advanced AI frameworks, the administration aims to solve local challenges in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and finance, ensuring that the digital shift yields tangible socio-economic improvements. Security and regulation remain at the forefront of this digital push to ensure long-term sustainability. Deputy Minister Sukparu stressed the need for a robust regulatory framework and enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect the integrity of the expanding digital ecosystem. He called for increased collaboration among all stakeholders, including the private sector and civil society, to build a resilient and secure network. As the 2028 deadline approaches, the government’s focus remains on balancing rapid technological advancement with the safety and inclusion of all Ghanaians.

Dr. Samuel Boateng Launches 'Beyond Breach' to Drive Ethical AI Governance and Security
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Dr. Samuel Boateng Launches 'Beyond Breach' to Drive Ethical AI Governance and Security

Cybersecurity expert Dr. Samuel Boateng has officially launched his latest publication, 'Beyond Breach: Where AI Meets Governance,' marking the beginning of a significant five-part series dedicated to artificial intelligence governance. The virtual ceremony, which drew a high-profile international audience including diplomats and cybersecurity officials from Ghana, the United States, and the United Kingdom, highlighted the growing urgency of establishing robust frameworks as AI adoption accelerates globally. The event underscored the critical need for a structured approach to managing the risks and opportunities associated with emerging technologies. The book serves as a practical manual designed specifically for corporate executives, policymakers, and security professionals navigating the complex global regulatory landscape. During the virtual event, Lady Rosa Whitaker Duncan-Williams emphasized the publication's vital importance in the current technological era, while Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams provided a formal blessing for the project. Dr. Boateng, who brings over two decades of expertise from his work with Slamm Technologies and the wider cybersecurity sector, noted that the book aims to bridge the gap between rapid technological advancement and ethical leadership. 'Beyond Breach' addresses critical aspects of AI security, focusing on how organizations can protect their systems while maintaining transparency and accountability. By exploring the intersection of technology and policy, Boateng offers a roadmap for leaders to implement AI solutions that are not only efficient but also resilient against emerging threats. The launch comes at a time when digital economies are increasingly focused on safeguarding data integrity and national security amidst a surge in artificial intelligence integration across both private and public sectors. As the first installment in a planned five-volume series, this release sets the stage for a deeper exploration of digital governance and the evolving role of AI in society. The book is currently available for public purchase, with a limited special edition also being offered to industry stakeholders and collectors. Dr. Boateng’s initiative reflects a broader effort within the Ghanaian tech community to lead conversations on digital ethics, ensuring that the country remains a proactive participant in the global technological revolution.

KickedIn Launches AI-Powered Digital Scouting Platform to Connect African Footballers to Global Clubs
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KickedIn Launches AI-Powered Digital Scouting Platform to Connect African Footballers to Global Clubs

KickedIn, a groundbreaking digital scouting platform, has been launched to transform the identification and recruitment of talented footballers across Africa. Co-founded by Eyram Kwawukume, the platform serves as a bridge between emerging players and a global network of clubs, academies, scouts, and agents. By digitizing the scouting process, KickedIn aims to eliminate traditional barriers to entry, particularly for talented individuals who lack the necessary connections to gain professional notice in a highly competitive industry. The platform provides players with a sophisticated digital space to build professional profiles that showcase their skills through high-quality video highlights and detailed performance data. At the heart of this innovation is a suite of AI-powered tools designed to facilitate targeted talent identification and analysis. These tools allow scouts and agents to review football footage with greater precision, making it easier to spot potential stars who might otherwise be overlooked in the vast and often fragmented African football landscape. By centralizing performance data, KickedIn provides a level of visibility that was previously reserved for players at well-funded academies. The initiative comes at a critical time as the global football industry increasingly relies on data-driven insights for recruitment. By focusing on establishing pathways to major markets in the United Kingdom and Europe, KickedIn creates a more connected ecosystem for African talents. The platform also acknowledges the strategic contributions of stakeholders such as KickNation and Wunnam Haruna, who have played vital roles in promoting emerging talent. Ultimately, KickedIn seeks to democratize access to professional opportunities, ensuring that technical skill and performance data become the primary drivers of success for the continent's next generation of football stars.

Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo Calls for Supportive Ecosystem for Ghana’s Young Tech Entrepreneurs
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Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo Calls for Supportive Ecosystem for Ghana’s Young Tech Entrepreneurs

The 2026 National ICT Week has officially commenced in Ghana, serving as a pivotal platform for stakeholders to advocate for a more robust digital ecosystem. Speaking at the event’s opening, Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo emphasized the urgent need to foster an environment where local digital solutions can thrive and scale. She highlighted that while Ghana’s digital economy presents immense business opportunities for the youth, a strategic focus on expanding infrastructure and supporting tech startups is essential for long-term economic growth under the current administration of President John Mahama. Central to the government's digital agenda are initiatives designed to bridge the skills gap and leverage emerging technologies. The Deputy Minister for Communication showcased the Ghana National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which aims to integrate AI into various sectors through targeted skill-building and international partnerships. Furthermore, the One Million Coders programme remains a cornerstone of this effort, seeking to empower Ghanaian youth with the technical expertise required to lead the nation's digital transformation and compete on a global stage. These initiatives are part of a broader push by the National Information Technology Agency (NITA) to create a sustainable pipeline for local innovation. Despite the optimistic outlook, the Deputy Chief of Staff issued a cautionary note regarding the structural obstacles facing the private sector. She pointed out that heavy taxation and burdensome regulatory barriers continue to hinder the growth of young technology entrepreneurs and startups. To counter these challenges, Addo called for a more supportive financial framework and stronger ties between academia and industry. By fostering such collaborations, the government aims to ensure that local talent is effectively harnessed to create scalable, innovative solutions that address specific domestic needs while attracting foreign investment. As the National ICT Week continues, the focus remains on ensuring that digital transformation is both inclusive and sustainable. Stakeholders and industry leaders are being urged to prioritize cybersecurity and actively work toward closing the digital divide to ensure that technological progress benefits all citizens, including those in underserved communities. The successful implementation of these policies will be critical in determining Ghana's competitiveness in the rapidly evolving global digital economy, as the government seeks to turn these strategic plans into tangible economic outcomes.

Professor Kofi Sarpong Adu-Manu Urges Journalists to Strengthen Digital Security Against Rising Cyber Threats
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Professor Kofi Sarpong Adu-Manu Urges Journalists to Strengthen Digital Security Against Rising Cyber Threats

Professor Kofi Sarpong Adu-Manu, a prominent cybersecurity expert, has issued an urgent call to journalists and media organizations in Ghana to bolster their digital defenses against a rising tide of cyber threats. Speaking at the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project (NCMCCBP) in Accra, Professor Adu-Manu warned that the increasing prevalence of phishing, malware, and account takeovers poses a significant risk to the integrity of newsrooms and the safety of confidential sources. He emphasized that in the modern digital landscape, cybersecurity is no longer just a technical concern but a fundamental component of editorial safety and professional ethics. During the training session, which was supported by the Government of the Czech Republic and the Cyber Security Authority, Professor Adu-Manu detailed the diverse array of dangers facing media practitioners. These include ransomware attacks that can paralyze news operations and sophisticated spyware used to monitor journalistic activities. He cited a specific case of a journalist whose device was compromised by spyware, highlighting how such breaches can expose sensitive, unpublished stories and jeopardize the lives of whistleblowers. The expert noted that as journalists handle increasingly sensitive data, they become high-value targets for malicious actors seeking to suppress information or manipulate public discourse. To mitigate these risks, the professor outlined a comprehensive set of security protocols that should be standard practice across the industry. Key recommendations include the mandatory implementation of two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts and the strict separation of personal and professional digital identities. Furthermore, journalists were advised to establish secure, pre-agreed communication channels before contacting sensitive sources to prevent interception. Professor Adu-Manu also stressed the necessity for media houses to develop robust incident response plans, ensuring that staff are prepared to act swiftly if a device or account is compromised. The National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project aims to foster a culture of digital awareness among Ghanaian media practitioners to safeguard the public's right to information. By treating cybersecurity as a core pillar of journalistic integrity, media organizations can better protect their credibility and maintain the public trust essential for a functioning democracy. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the expert concluded that ongoing training and the adoption of basic digital-security policies are vital steps in defending the press against increasingly sophisticated cyber-adversaries.

Cyber Security Authority Fines EY Ghana GH"360,000 for Unlicensed Service Provision
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Cyber Security Authority Fines EY Ghana GH"360,000 for Unlicensed Service Provision

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has imposed a GH"360,000 fine on Ernst & Young (EY) Ghana for operating as a Cybersecurity Service Provider (CSP) without the required regulatory licence. This enforcement action follows persistent non-compliance by the international professional services firm, which allegedly disregarded multiple warnings to formalise its operations. The CSA emphasized that the regulation of such services is essential for the protection of Ghana's digital ecosystem and the integrity of systems integral to national security. According to the CSA, the penalty is based on three specific instances of non-compliance with regulatory directives. Each instance attracted a fine of GH"120,000, culminating in the total GH"360,000 penalty. Despite receiving three separate directives from the Authority to apply for a valid CSP licence as mandated by the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), EY Ghana reportedly continued to offer regulated services to clients, prompting the regulatory body to move from warnings to active sanctions. Beyond the financial penalty, the CSA has issued a stern directive for EY Ghana to immediately cease providing all unlicensed cybersecurity services. The firm is required to confirm this cessation in writing to the Authority and has been given a 14-day window to initiate the formal application process for the appropriate licence. The CSA highlighted that compliance is particularly critical for organisations serving Critical Information Infrastructure (CII), which constitutes the backbone of the nation's essential services and digital economy. This enforcement action signals a tightening of regulatory oversight in Ghana's technology sector. The CSA has issued a broad warning to all cybersecurity service providers, stressing that it will not tolerate unlicensed operations and urging firms to adhere strictly to the licensing framework. As the administration of President John Mahama continues to prioritise digital resilience, the CSA's actions underscore a commitment to ensuring that only qualified and vetted entities are permitted to manage the country's most sensitive digital assets.

AutoPadi Launches Digital Platform to Connect Ghanaian Motorists with Verified Mechanics
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AutoPadi Launches Digital Platform to Connect Ghanaian Motorists with Verified Mechanics

AutoPadi, a new digital platform designed to provide immediate assistance to vehicle owners during breakdowns, has officially launched in Accra. The mobile application serves as a critical link between motorists and a network of certified automotive professionals, addressing a long-standing challenge in Ghana’s transport sector: the difficulty of finding reliable help when stranded on the road. By leveraging technology to offer real-time solutions, the platform aims to reduce the stress and security risks often associated with vehicle malfunctions in unfamiliar locations. Co-founder Edmund Tekpenor highlighted that the primary motivation behind AutoPadi is to solve the uncertainty drivers face during emergencies. According to Mr. Tekpenor, the app provides immediate access to professionals who have been thoroughly vetted to ensure they possess the necessary skills and integrity to provide high-quality service. This verification process is a cornerstone of the platform, designed to build trust between vehicle owners and service providers in an industry that has traditionally relied on informal recommendations. The application is currently available for download on both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store, making it accessible to a wide demographic of smartphone users across the country. Beyond emergency roadside assistance, the platform is expected to improve the general standards of automotive maintenance by encouraging mechanics to maintain high service levels to remain listed on the digital marketplace. This shift toward a formalized, tech-driven service model reflects the broader trend of digital transformation currently sweeping through Ghana’s service economy. As the platform expands, its founders anticipate it will significantly enhance the convenience of automotive support for motorists nationwide. By professionalizing roadside assistance and creating a transparent system for service delivery, AutoPadi not only assists individual drivers but also contributes to better road safety and vehicle longevity. The launch marks a significant step forward in integrating digital tools into the everyday lives of Ghanaians, ensuring that help is always within reach during unexpected travel disruptions.

Spotify Introduces 'AI Persona' Badges to Distinguish Human Artists from Synthetic Identities
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Spotify Introduces 'AI Persona' Badges to Distinguish Human Artists from Synthetic Identities

Global music streaming giant Spotify has officially begun the rollout of its new "AI Persona" badge, a strategic move designed to enhance transparency and protect the integrity of artist identities. The initiative, which labels content generated by artificial intelligence, aims to provide listeners with a clear distinction between human creators and synthetic representations. By explicitly marking these AI-driven profiles, Spotify is addressing the growing complexity of authenticity in a digital landscape where generative technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated. The introduction of the AI Persona badge is part of a comprehensive suite of tools focused on authenticity, including "Verified by Spotify," "AI Credits," and "SongDNA." These features work in tandem to document the provenance of musical tracks and ensure that the creative process is transparent to the end user. Industry analysts view these measures as a vital safeguard against the potential for AI-generated content to obscure or misappropriate the identities of real performers, thereby maintaining the trust that is foundational to the relationship between artists and their fans. In addition to the labeling system, Spotify has implemented strict algorithmic policies regarding the promotion of synthetic artists. AI Personas will not be recommended in the platform's curated playlists or discovery features unless a user has already proactively followed the specific AI entity. This policy is designed to ensure that Spotify’s editorial influence remains focused on supporting human talent, preventing machine-generated personas from overshadowing the visibility and livelihoods of authentic human musicians. As the music industry continues to navigate the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, these measures reflect a broader shift toward establishing ethical standards for AI integration. By prioritizing artist identity and human-led creativity, Spotify is setting a precedent for how streaming platforms can manage the coexistence of technology and artistry. For the global music community, including creators in Ghana, these developments represent a significant step toward defending intellectual property and preserving the unique human connection that defines the musical experience.

Cyber Security Authority Urges Ghanaians to Report Cyber Threats via 292 Hotline to Protect Critical Infrastructure
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Cyber Security Authority Urges Ghanaians to Report Cyber Threats via 292 Hotline to Protect Critical Infrastructure

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has intensified its call for Ghanaians to adopt a proactive approach toward digital safety by reporting suspected cyber threats immediately. Speaking at the National Community Media Cybersecurity Capacity Building Programme, Alex Awere-Kyere of the CSA emphasized that early intervention is the most effective way to mitigate financial losses and protect personal data from malicious actors. As digital transactions and connectivity become central to Ghanaian life, the authority is positioning public vigilance as a primary line of defense against evolving cybercrimes. The CSA highlighted that the risks are not limited to individuals but extend to critical national infrastructure, including the banking, energy, and government sectors. To facilitate rapid response, the authority has established the 292 call center, a dedicated hotline for citizens to report suspicious online activities or cyber incidents. Mr. Awere-Kyere noted that the speed of reporting often determines the success of recovery efforts, particularly in cases involving financial fraud or unauthorized access to sensitive systems. Beyond public engagement, the CSA has bolstered its operational capacity through a Joint Cybersecurity Committee (JCC). This committee brings together several national agencies to ensure a coordinated and robust response to large-scale threats. However, the effectiveness of these resources depends on the integrity of the reporting system. The authority issued a firm warning against prank calls to the 292 hotline, noting that such actions divert essential resources and personnel away from legitimate emergencies, potentially leaving victims of actual cyberattacks at risk. As Ghana continues its digital transformation, the CSA’s focus remains on building a resilient cybersecurity ecosystem. The emphasis on community media involvement suggests a strategy to reach the grassroots, ensuring that even citizens in remote areas are aware of the tools available to protect themselves. By fostering a culture of accountability and transparency in reporting, the CSA aims to safeguard the nation’s digital economy and maintain public trust in technological systems.

Daniel Afari Danquah (3rd from right), Co-founder and CEO of Mood Data Services Limited, presenting the items to Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey (6th from right), Director-General of NACOC. With them are some staff of NACOC and Mood Data Services Limited
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Narcotics Control Commission Receives Major Tech Boost from MDSL to Enhance Drug Enforcement

Mood Data Service Limited (MDSL) has made a significant contribution to Ghana's fight against drug trafficking by donating an extensive suite of IT equipment to the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC). This strategic donation is aimed at modernizing the commission’s operational capacity, specifically targeting improvements in surveillance, enforcement, and public education. As law enforcement agencies increasingly rely on digital infrastructure to combat sophisticated crime networks, this private-sector support arrives at a critical time for the commission’s digital transformation. The donated hardware includes 50 laptops, iPads, printers, servers, UPS units, projectors, and computers. Notably, the package also includes a drone, which is expected to significantly augment NACOC's aerial surveillance capabilities in hard-to-reach areas. Maj. Gen. Maxwell Obuba Mantey, the Director-General of NACOC, emphasized that the commission’s primary mandate is to protect citizens from the scourge of narcotics rather than to intimidate them. He acknowledged that while government resources are often stretched thin, such contributions from corporate partners are essential for maintaining high standards of record-keeping and ensuring Ghana remains compliant with international narcotics control protocols. The partnership between MDSL and NACOC is a continuation of previous collaborations, such as the development of a medical screening data-capture portal. Daniel Afari Danquah, the CEO of MDSL, revealed that the company is looking to deepen this relationship by developing a comprehensive national incident reporting system. This upcoming digital platform is designed to provide more effective monitoring of narcotics-related incidents across the country, allowing for real-time data analysis and more informed decision-making by enforcement officers. This donation highlights the growing importance of public-private partnerships in bolstering national security and law enforcement in Ghana. As the Narcotics Control Commission seeks to strengthen its technological infrastructure, the shift toward digitized surveillance and reporting is expected to enhance transparency and operational efficiency. By equipping NACOC with modern tools, MDSL is helping to ensure that the commission can more effectively fulfill its duty to the Ghanaian public while meeting the evolving challenges of the global anti-drug landscape.

Spotify to Label Synthetic Artist Profiles with New 'AI Persona' Tag for Greater Transparency
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Spotify to Label Synthetic Artist Profiles with New 'AI Persona' Tag for Greater Transparency

Spotify is introducing a new "AI Persona" label to distinguish synthetic artist profiles from human creators, marking a significant shift in how the streaming giant manages digital identities. This initiative aims to increase transparency on the platform by clearly identifying accounts that utilize AI-generated names, images, or synthetic personas. By implementing this system, Spotify seeks to address growing listener frustrations and industry concerns regarding the potential for non-human creators to mislead audiences about their origin and authenticity. The labeling process features a rigorous two-step verification system designed to ensure accuracy. Initial automated screenings will flag potential synthetic profiles, which are then subjected to a human moderation review before the "AI Persona" tag is finalized. Once an artist is labeled with this designation, they will face substantial visibility restrictions; specifically, these accounts will be excluded from Spotify’s influential editorial playlists and removed from algorithmic recommendations. This policy ensures that human-led artistry remains the primary focus of the platform's discovery tools. This strategic move comes in response to mounting pressure from the global music industry for clearer identification of AI-assisted and AI-generated content. Stakeholders have expressed concern that the proliferation of synthetic music could undermine the economic and emotional value of human-created work. By segregating AI personas from mainstream recommendations, Spotify is attempting to balance the inevitable rise of technological innovation with the necessity of preserving artistic integrity. Early feedback from musicians and fans has been largely supportive, with many advocates emphasizing that the value of music is rooted in the unique emotional connection between human artists and their listeners. As generative technology continues to evolve rapidly, Spotify’s new labeling framework sets a vital precedent for how digital streaming services navigate the intersection of artificial intelligence and creative expression, ensuring that fans can make informed choices about the content they consume.