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.

Samuel Nartey George to connect 48 registries for AI-driven planning
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Samuel Nartey George to connect 48 registries for AI-driven planning

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has announced the development of a national data exchange hub designed to integrate 48 data registries across various public institutions. This initiative is a core component of the government's digital transformation agenda, aimed at streamlining data sharing and analysis to improve public administration. By centralising information from diverse state agencies, the hub will provide a comprehensive view of national data, facilitating more informed decision-making and efficient service delivery. Central to this project is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive national development and resource allocation. Minister George emphasized that the use of AI will ensure that government investments and development projects are guided by empirical evidence rather than political considerations. The hub will enable the government to better understand community needs and prioritize interventions where they are most required, effectively removing subjectivity from the planning process. This approach is intended to ensure that taxpayer resources are utilised in the most impactful manner across the country. To support this vision, the government has already allocated $250 million for the first phase of an AI compute center, which will provide the necessary infrastructure for processing and analyzing these vast datasets. This development comes ahead of the upcoming Digital Economy Forum, where stakeholders will discuss the broader implications of AI for the Ghanaian economy and governance. The establishment of the data exchange hub is viewed as a critical step in modernising Ghana's public sector, ensuring the country remains at the forefront of technological innovation while fostering a more transparent approach to governance.

Rashid Tanko Computer, the Administrator (CEO) of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), is captured speaking into a microphone. He is dressed in a light grey sweatshirt featuring the 'NYC' logo and is gesturing with his left hand while addressing an audience indoors.
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Rashid Tanko Computer declares One Million Coders Programme non-political

Rashid Tanko Computer, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), has clarified that the One Million Coders Programme (OMCP) is a purely non-political initiative. Speaking during a recent Rural Telephony and Digital Infrastructure Tour, he underscored that the government-led program is designed to be free and accessible to all citizens, regardless of their political leanings. The primary objective of the initiative is to equip Ghanaians with the essential digital skills required to thrive in the modern global economy. Accompanied by the Minister of Communication during the tour, Mr. Tanko Computer emphasized that the only prerequisite for enrollment in the training scheme is the possession of a Ghana Card. This requirement is intended to ensure that the benefits of the digital literacy drive reach genuine citizens across the country efficiently. He urged Ghanaians from all walks of life to take advantage of the opportunity, stressing that the program aims to provide a level playing field for everyone interested in enhancing their technical expertise and coding proficiency. The GIFEC boss further noted that education and skills acquisition should always transcend political affiliations, as the benefits of digital literacy are universal. By framing the OMCP as a national asset rather than a partisan tool, he highlighted its importance for both individual career growth and overall national progress. He also revealed that the initiative has already gained significant institutional traction, with several universities expressing interest in adopting and integrating the curriculum to further expand the reach of digital skills training. Ultimately, the One Million Coders Programme is positioned as a vital step toward bridging the digital skills gap in Ghana and enhancing national literacy. As the global economy becomes increasingly technology-driven, such initiatives are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring the Ghanaian workforce remains competitive. Mr. Tanko Computer’s remarks serve as a call to action for the youth and professionals alike to engage with the digital infrastructure and educational resources being provided by the state.

Samuel Nartey George issues 30-day ultimatum on 2,016 mini telecom masts
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Samuel Nartey George issues 30-day ultimatum on 2,016 mini telecom masts

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has issued a 30-day ultimatum to contractors to complete work on more than 2,000 mini telecommunication masts. The project, which involves the construction of 2,016 masts, is designed to expand digital connectivity to approximately 5,000 underserved communities across the country. During an inspection tour in the Volta Region, the minister expressed significant dissatisfaction with the current pace of construction and warned that delays would no longer be tolerated as the government pushes for nationwide network coverage. Beyond the physical installation of the masts, Mr. George emphasised the urgent need to upgrade the rural telephony network to 4G standards. He noted that many existing rural sites currently operate on 2G and 3G technology, which he described as inadequate for the modern digital requirements of Ghanaian citizens. The minister stated that providing high-speed internet is essential for ensuring that rural communities can participate fully in the digital economy and benefit from government initiatives. Addressing the challenges facing the sector, the minister highlighted a worrying trend of infrastructure damage, specifically citing approximately 4,000 recorded fiber optic cable cuts. These incidents have severely impacted network quality and reliability. To prevent further disruptions, Mr. George stressed the importance of better coordination between telecommunication firms and road contractors. He noted that accidental damage during road construction is a primary cause of these cuts and called for a more integrated approach to infrastructure development to protect national assets. In addition to the infrastructure oversight, the minister visited several training centers for the One Million Coders Programme. He expressed enthusiasm for the progress of the trainees, describing the initiative as a life-changing opportunity for the youth. The completion of the rural telephony project is expected to provide the necessary backbone for such digital literacy programmes to succeed in more remote areas, ensuring that the benefits of technological advancement are distributed equitably across the nation.

A central government official gestures while speaking at a press conference, surrounded by colleagues and media personnel. The scene is set in a conference room with a long table featuring microphones and laptops, as journalists record the address with cameras and phones.
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Samuel Nartey George affirms One Million Coders Programme standards

Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to maintaining high international certification standards for the One Million Coders Programme (OMCP). Speaking during a working tour of the Volta Region, the Minister addressed concerns from participants about the rigorous nature of the curriculum, asserting that the government would not lower requirements simply to make the programme easier to complete. He emphasized that the value of the programme lies in its global recognition, which is essential for graduates seeking remote employment with international firms. By adhering to international benchmarks in fields like cybersecurity and software development, the OMCP ensures that Ghanaian talent meets the specific needs of the global tech industry. The Minister highlighted that the programme provides free, self-paced online courses designed to bridge the digital skills gap and empower a new generation of IT professionals. He noted that maintaining these strict standards is the only way to guarantee that Ghanaian coders remain competitive against talent from across the globe, as lower standards would risk the credibility of the certifications. To support the transition from training to employment, the Ministry is actively engaging with Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies. These partnerships aim to facilitate job placements for successful graduates, allowing them to leverage their certifications to secure well-paying roles. This strategic alignment with the private sector is intended to create a direct pipeline for employment, ensuring that the skills acquired through the OMCP are immediately applicable in the workforce. As part of the same regional tour, the Minister also visited the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), where he donated 200 Lenovo laptops to support tech-based training for healthcare professionals. The donation is intended to enhance digital literacy among students, preparing them for a healthcare landscape increasingly driven by emerging technologies. Vice-Chancellor Professor Lydia Aziato expressed gratitude for the support, noting that the tools would significantly improve the technical skills and research capabilities of both students and faculty.

UK MEET Fellowship equips journalists to cover emerging technologies
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UK MEET Fellowship equips journalists to cover emerging technologies

The UK Media and Emerging Technologies (UK MEET) Fellowship has concluded an intensive week-long training program in Accra designed to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and public communication. Held from October 11 to 17, 2026, the fellowship brought together journalists to explore the complex intersection of media, science, and emerging technology. The initiative aimed to enhance the capacity of media professionals to report accurately on technical subjects that are increasingly shaping both the global and local landscape. During the program, participants engaged in a series of practical newsroom simulations that mimicked the fast-paced pressures of modern reporting. Journalists were tasked with critically evaluating information from diverse sources and presenting story ideas that investigate the real-world impact of new technologies. A central component of the curriculum was the emphasis on collaboration; the fellowship encouraged journalists to work closely with researchers to ensure that technical nuances are preserved while making the information accessible and relatable to a non-specialist audience. The training highlighted that in a rapidly evolving, tech-driven world, the role of the journalist is shifting from mere reporting to informed interpretation. Key takeaways for the participants included the vital importance of maintaining accuracy and prioritizing the public interest over sensationalism. By focusing on rigorous storytelling, the fellowship sought to equip reporters with the tools necessary to demystify complex scientific data and provide the public with clear insights into how innovation affects their daily lives. As technology continues to advance, the UK MEET Fellowship underscores the necessity for ongoing professional development in the media sector. By fostering a deeper understanding of scientific processes and encouraging a more analytical approach to technology news, the program aims to elevate the standard of science journalism in Ghana. This initiative reflects a broader effort to ensure that the public remains well-informed as new technologies and scientific breakthroughs become more deeply integrated into the fabric of society.

Three JoyNews journalists selected for London UK MEET fellowship
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Three JoyNews journalists selected for London UK MEET fellowship

Three journalists from the JoyNews newsroom have been selected to participate in the prestigious United Kingdom Media and Emerging Technologies (UK MEET) fellowship in London. Esther Nkrumah, Nana Boakye Yiadom, and Jacqueline Ansomah Yeboah secured their places among the final 10 participants after a highly competitive selection process that featured more than 500 applicants. The fellowship is designed to equip media professionals with the advanced training and knowledge necessary to report accurately on the rapidly evolving world of science and technology. During their time in the United Kingdom, each journalist will focus on a specific area of technological integration that impacts Ghanaian society. Nana Boakye Yiadom is set to investigate how artificial intelligence can be effectively deployed to monitor and curb illegal mining activities, a critical issue for the nation's environment. Esther Nkrumah will examine the use of drone technology in the fight against malaria, focusing on how these aerial vehicles can enhance control measures. Meanwhile, Jacqueline Ansomah Yeboah will evaluate the growing influence of AI tools within the educational sector to understand their potential and challenges for both students and teachers. The UK MEET programme is supported by Imperial Global Ghana and Imperial College London, reflecting a collaboration aimed at bridging the gap between complex technological developments and public understanding. The initiative provides a platform for journalists to engage with experts and researchers at the forefront of global innovation. By fostering these connections, the programme seeks to elevate the standard of science communication in Ghana, ensuring that emerging technologies and their societal impacts are reported with depth and accuracy.

A photograph of Dr. Gordon Akon-Yamga speaking at the National Scientific Conference. He is wearing a patterned shirt with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) logo and an identification badge while gesturing with his hands during an interview or discussion.
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Gordon Akon Yamga urges government to invest in open science infrastructure

Dr. Gordon Akon Yamga, a Research Scientist at the Savannah Agricultural Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (SARI-CSIR), has called on the Ghanaian government to prioritise investments in open science infrastructure. Speaking during an interview at the CSIR National Scientific Conference, Dr. Yamga highlighted that making research findings more accessible to the public and policymakers is critical for national development. He argued that the current lack of accessibility limits the potential of scientific discovery to solve real-world problems, as many valuable research outputs currently remain underutilised. The call focuses on the transition from traditional, closed research models to an open science framework that promotes transparency and innovation. According to Dr. Yamga, providing unrestricted access to research methodologies, raw data, and final publications is essential for fostering a culture of collaboration. He pointed out that significant amounts of valuable research conducted within Ghana often remain confined within institutional silos, preventing them from being effectively applied to address pressing societal challenges or to inform evidence-based national policies. To bridge this gap, Dr. Yamga recommended a dual-pronged investment strategy targeting both physical and digital infrastructure. This includes the development of robust digital repositories and platforms where researchers can share their work openly with the global community. Furthermore, he emphasized that technological tools alone are insufficient; there must be parallel investments in human capital. He urged the government to establish comprehensive training programs to equip scientists and data managers with the technical skills required to operate and maintain these new open science systems effectively. The push for open science aligns with global trends toward democratising knowledge and increasing the visibility of local research. By enhancing the accessibility of Ghanaian scientific output, Dr. Yamga believes the country can better integrate technical insights into public policy and industrial growth. As the government under President John Mahama continues to focus on national development, the adoption of open science could serve as a vital catalyst for more efficient resource allocation and impactful technological progress across various sectors.

Sam George announces appointment of AI focal persons in all ministries
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Sam George announces appointment of AI focal persons in all ministries

The Government of Ghana has designated specific AI focal persons within every ministry to spearhead the integration of artificial intelligence into public institutions. Announced by Minister Sam George, this initiative is a central pillar of the nation’s broader AI strategy, designed to modernize governance and boost economic productivity across the state sector. The move signals a concerted effort to transition from traditional administrative frameworks to data-driven digital systems that can better serve the public. To ensure the success of this transition, the government has already conducted foundational training for cabinet ministers, with specialized training for senior civil servants scheduled to follow. These efforts are being supported by a comprehensive AI readiness assessment carried out in collaboration with UNESCO. This evaluation aims to identify the specific needs and technological gaps within various state agencies, ensuring that the deployment of AI tools is both strategic and effective across different branches of government. Parallel to human resource development, the government is committing US$250 million toward building critical digital infrastructure. This investment will fund the establishment of a national data exchange hub and a national AI compute center. These facilities are expected to provide the necessary processing power and data-sharing capabilities required to support advanced AI applications, ranging from automated public services to complex economic modeling. The initiative comes as stakeholders prepare for a national forum titled ‘AI and the Ghana Economy: Opportunity or Disruption?’ which will explore the potential impact of these technologies on the domestic job market and economic growth. By embedding AI focal persons into the ministerial structure, the government aims to create a sustainable framework for technological adoption that prioritizes both efficiency and long-term digital development.

Alex Bram urges government to fund training for AI engineers
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Alex Bram urges government to fund training for AI engineers

Hubtel CEO Alex Bram has called on the Ghanaian government to match its current investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure with dedicated funding for specialized human resource development. Speaking on the nation’s technology strategy, Mr. Bram emphasized that the establishment of a national AI compute center must be accompanied by a robust pipeline of local engineers and data scientists. He warned that without a skilled workforce capable of operating and innovating with these tools, the country’s efforts to build a competitive AI industry risk falling short of their potential. The call for action stems from a significant skills gap identified within the local technology sector, particularly in specialized fields such as machine learning and data science. Mr. Bram shared insights from Hubtel's own experiences, noting that the company has faced substantial difficulties in recruiting qualified machine learning engineers despite offering highly competitive packages. This challenge, he argued, is not unique to Hubtel but reflects a broader national shortage of the technical expertise required to sustain a modern digital economy. To address this deficit, the Hubtel CEO advocated for a collaborative approach where the government and private sector prioritize training alongside hardware procurement. He stressed that while infrastructure like compute centers provides the necessary foundation, the ultimate success of Ghana’s AI initiatives depends on the intellectual capacity of its people. By fostering a domestic pool of experts, Ghana can ensure that its technological advancements lead to sustainable economic growth and indigenous innovation in the global tech landscape.

Hubtel deploys AI to help ECG identify suspected electricity theft
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Hubtel deploys AI to help ECG identify suspected electricity theft

Hubtel CEO Alex Bram has announced a strategic collaboration with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) in the fight against electricity theft. Developed within Hubtel’s dedicated AI lab, which was established in 2023, the initiative is designed to address critical operational leakages and enhance the efficiency of the country's primary power distributor. The project aims to identify patterns indicative of power bypasses and illegal connections that have historically plagued the utility provider's revenue stream. Speaking at the Digital Economy Forum, Bram explained that the technology is focused on solving real-world business challenges by translating complex data into actionable insights for the ECG. This move marks a significant shift toward data-driven utility management in Ghana. The AI models are being trained to recognize irregularities in consumption that human monitors might overlook, providing a more comprehensive layer of security for the national grid. Despite the technological progress, the project has faced significant hurdles, particularly regarding the availability of specialized talent and the free flow of information. Bram highlighted a shortage of local skills in the AI sector, which complicated recruitment efforts during the initial phases of the project. Furthermore, the lack of a robust data-sharing framework between institutions remains a barrier to scaling such technological interventions effectively across the public sector. To overcome these obstacles and maximize the benefits of AI for the national economy, the Hubtel CEO emphasized the need for a comprehensive national data-sharing framework and increased investment in specialized training. He noted that while the collaboration with ECG is a positive step, the broader success of AI in Ghana depends on a collaborative ecosystem between the private sector and government agencies. The Digital Economy Forum is expected to continue exploring how these technological advancements can be integrated into other sectors to drive growth and operational transparency.

Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah, CEO, Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, addressing the people on digital education at Mankessim
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Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications educates Mankessim traders on MoMo fraud

The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications (GCT) has launched a public education drive at the Mankessim Market to combat the increasing prevalence of mobile money (MoMo) fraud. Dubbed the "Mankessim Market Storm," the event brought together telecommunications stakeholders to engage directly with traders and consumers on safe digital practices. GCT Chief Executive Officer Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah emphasized that the initiative is part of a broader effort to provide continuous public education as a primary defense against scammers who exploit digital financial systems. Central to the sensitization effort was the threat of social engineering, a tactic where fraudsters manipulate individuals into disclosing sensitive personal information. Owusu-Ankomah urged users to safeguard their mobile money wallets and personal data with the same level of care they apply to physical assets. Security officials present at the event provided practical advice on identifying fraudulent calls and messages, noting that vigilance is the most effective tool in preventing financial loss. Traders were encouraged to never share their Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) or follow instructions from unknown callers regarding their accounts. Beyond financial security, the Chamber used the platform to address common public misconceptions regarding telecommunications infrastructure. Specifically, officials tackled concerns about potential health risks associated with the installation of mobile towers in residential areas. The Chamber clarified that all telecommunications equipment adheres to strict safety standards and is only deployed after obtaining the necessary permits from regulatory bodies. This segment of the education aimed to foster community support for the infrastructure required to maintain reliable connectivity. The event also allowed market participants to share their personal experiences with digital fraud, highlighting the real-world impact of these crimes. Many traders recounted near-misses and successful scams, underscoring the necessity of the Chamber's intervention. As digital financial services continue to expand across Ghana, the GCT maintains that proactive engagement and digital literacy are essential to ensuring that the benefits of financial inclusion are not undermined by criminal activity. The Chamber plans to continue such engagements in other communities to strengthen the nation's digital ecosystem.

Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings (middle), Minister of Environment , Science and Technology, with Executives of CSIR
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John Mahama urges CSIR to move innovations beyond prototypes

President John Mahama has called on the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to transition its research findings and innovations into commercially viable products. Speaking at the CSIR Innovation Fair 2026 on October 4, the President emphasized that the era of leaving groundbreaking inventions at the prototype stage must end if Ghana is to achieve significant economic transformation. He stressed that science and technology are the primary engines for growth and must be felt in the everyday lives of Ghanaians through market-ready solutions. The fair, held under the theme "From Research to Market," served as a platform to showcase local scientific advancements and bridge the gap between academia and industry. President Mahama noted that while the CSIR has a rich history of developing solutions, particularly in agriculture and industrial processing, these often fail to reach the wider public or achieve industrial scale. He urged the council to develop robust business cases for their projects, making them attractive to investors and entrepreneurs who can facilitate the mass production of these inventions. Central to the President’s address was a call for deeper collaboration between the scientific community and the private sector. He encouraged Ghanaian industries to look inward and utilize the expertise of the CSIR for local solutions rather than relying solely on imported technology. By fostering these strategic partnerships, the President argued, the country can reduce its import bill, enhance industrial sovereignty, and create sustainable jobs through high-tech manufacturing and value addition. Responding to the President's challenge, the Director-General of the CSIR, Professor Paul Bosu, highlighted the council's ongoing strategies to engage the business community more effectively. He detailed advancements in agricultural technologies and outlined new frameworks designed to ensure research output is tailored to meet the specific needs of the Ghanaian market. The President concluded by reaffirming his government's commitment to prioritizing science and technology as the foundation for a modern, self-reliant economy.