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.

DVLA Enhances Vehicle Registration with New DVLAverify iOS App and Web Portal
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DVLA Enhances Vehicle Registration with New DVLAverify iOS App and Web Portal

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has significantly expanded its digital footprint with the official launch of the DVLAverify application for iOS devices alongside a new web-based verification platform. This strategic rollout is designed to streamline the vehicle registration process by allowing prospective owners to perform biometric identity verification remotely. By integrating these digital tools, the Authority aims to modernize its operations and reduce the necessity for physical visits to its offices for routine identity checks, representing a major shift toward more accessible public service delivery. The DVLAverify app is now available for download on the Apple App Store, specifically catering to iPhone users who require a secure and user-friendly interface for registration tasks. Recognizing the need for inclusive access, the DVLA has also introduced a corresponding web portal. This ensures that individuals without compatible smartphones or those who prefer desktop interfaces can still benefit from the biometric verification features. These platforms are engineered to verify the identity of applicants against national databases, ensuring that vehicle registrations are tied to legitimate, verified individuals and enhancing the overall security of the licensing system. Beyond the technological upgrade, the initiative is part of a broader commitment by the DVLA to provide efficient and accessible services through digital innovation. The Authority has underscored that these new platforms include built-in support options to assist applicants through the verification process, ensuring that users are not left without guidance. As Ghana continues its digital transformation journey, the introduction of DVLAverify is expected to alleviate congestion at service centers, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and offer a more seamless, modern experience for the motoring public.

A photograph showing damaged underground telecommunications infrastructure. Severed fiber optic cables with exposed multi-colored wires are visible inside black corrugated conduits within a sandy trench.
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NCA Confirms Major Voice and Data Service Outages in Northern Ghana Following Multiple Fibre Optic Cable Cuts

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has officially reported a widespread disruption of voice and data services across the northern parts of the country, affecting millions of residents and businesses. The outage is currently impacting all five northern regions—Northern, North East, Savannah, Upper East, and Upper West—as well as significant portions of the Oti Region. According to the regulator, the crisis was triggered by multiple cuts to fibre optic cables across three primary transmission corridors, effectively severing the high-speed data links that connect these areas to the national backbone.\n\nThe NCA has identified that the damage occurred simultaneously across these corridors, which has significantly hampered the network's ability to reroute traffic through redundant paths. While the authority has not yet specified the exact cause of the cuts—whether due to road construction, deliberate sabotage, or environmental degradation—the simultaneous nature of the damage suggests a major infrastructure failure. Technical teams from the affected telecommunications companies have been dispatched to the sites to begin the arduous process of splicing and repairing the damaged cables to restore connectivity as quickly as possible.\n\nThe socio-economic impact of this disruption is substantial, as the affected regions rely heavily on mobile connectivity for everything from financial transactions to healthcare coordination. Businesses that operate primarily through mobile money platforms have seen their operations grind to a halt, and individual users have reported total inability to access the internet or make critical voice calls. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the nation's digital infrastructure and the challenges of maintaining reliable connectivity in geographically expansive areas where fibre optic lines may be exposed to various physical risks.\n\nIn the interim, the NCA has assured the public that it is working closely with service providers to monitor the repair progress and prioritize the restoration of essential services. The authority is expected to conduct a full investigation into the cause of the multiple cuts once service is stabilized to prevent such a massive failure from recurring. For now, residents in Northern Ghana and the Oti Region are advised to expect intermittent service as technicians work through the night to resolve the underlying technical issues and bring the transmission corridors back online.

President Mahama and Amazon Executives Explore Strategic Broadband Partnership to Bridge Ghana's Digital Divide
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President Mahama and Amazon Executives Explore Strategic Broadband Partnership to Bridge Ghana's Digital Divide

President John Dramani Mahama has initiated high-level discussions with Amazon executives to explore a transformative partnership aimed at expanding broadband connectivity across Ghana and the wider African continent. The talks, held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, focused on leveraging Amazon’s technological expertise to bridge the digital divide. David Zapolsky, Amazon’s Senior Vice President, led the delegation, emphasizing Ghana’s strategic potential as a primary partner in the company's regional expansion of high-speed internet services. A central pillar of the proposed collaboration is the provision of high-speed internet access to underserved rural communities. By focusing on these often-overlooked areas, the initiative seeks to equalize opportunities for digital entrepreneurship and enhance the delivery of essential services. Executives noted that improved connectivity would serve as a catalyst for growth in digital education, remote healthcare, and the burgeoning e-commerce sector. This move aligns with the administration's commitment to creating a modern infrastructure that supports both social development and commercial innovation. Beyond technical infrastructure, President Mahama is positioning Ghana as a central digital hub within West Africa. This strategy is particularly significant given Ghana’s role as the host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat. By attracting major U.S. corporations like Amazon, the President aims to foster a new chapter in bilateral relations focused on trade and technology. This collaborative framework is expected to not only bring in direct investment but also create a ripple effect of technological advancement throughout the sub-region. The potential partnership is viewed as a vital step toward long-term economic growth and job creation for the nation’s youth. As Ghana continues to build its digital economy, the integration of global technological leaders is expected to accelerate the country's transition into a sophisticated tech-driven market. While specific timelines for the rollout remain under discussion, the engagement signals a strong mutual interest in establishing Ghana as a leader in Africa's digital transformation.

Cyber Security Authority Warns Jobseekers Against Sophisticated Government Recruitment Scams
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Cyber Security Authority Warns Jobseekers Against Sophisticated Government Recruitment Scams

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued an urgent warning to Ghanaian jobseekers following a surge in sophisticated recruitment scams designed to harvest personal data and extort money. These fraudulent schemes frequently involve the cloning of official government agency websites and the dissemination of false job advertisements across popular social media platforms and messaging apps. As citizens seek new employment opportunities, the CSA is urging high levels of vigilance to avoid falling victim to these increasingly convincing digital traps that leverage the branding of reputable state institutions. According to the CSA, scammers are utilizing a variety of channels, including SMS, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Telegram, to target unsuspecting individuals. These bad actors employ phishing tactics to mimic legitimate institutions, often creating look-alike websites that are nearly indistinguishable from official portals to the untrained eye. One particularly notable scam identified by the authority involves a fraudulent recruitment announcement linked to foreign security operations in the Ghana-Burkina Faso border region. Additionally, the CSA highlighted false claims suggesting the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is currently charging fees for employment, a practice that is entirely contrary to standard government recruitment protocols. The Authority has identified several key indicators that should alert jobseekers to potential fraud. These red flags include the presence of poor grammar and spelling errors in job advertisements, as well as requests for upfront payments or sensitive personal information via unofficial communication channels. To mitigate these risks, the CSA strongly advises potential applicants to verify any job offer directly with the relevant institution through its official, verified website or authorized contact numbers. Relying on third-party links shared in private messages is discouraged, as these are often the primary vectors for identity theft and financial fraud. This warning underscores the growing need for digital literacy as an essential component of the modern job search process in Ghana. The CSA continues to monitor the digital landscape for these malicious activities and encourages the public to report any suspicious online behavior or fraudulent websites to the appropriate authorities. By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and promoting direct verification, the CSA aims to protect the integrity of the national labor market and ensure that the digital space remains a safe environment for all citizens seeking legitimate employment.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (seated 2nd from right), Minister of Foreign Affairs; Hiroshi Yoshimoto (standing left), the Ambassador of Japan to Ghana; Koichi Wakata (seated 2nd from left), Japanese astronaut and Chief Technology Officer for Asia Pacific, Axiom; Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo (seated left), Vice-Chancellor, University of Ghana; Kadidja Iddrisu (seated right), Chief Director, MoFA; and other officials after the visit
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Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Announces Ghana’s First Space Institution in Partnership with Japan

Ghana is set to launch its first dedicated space institution, marking a significant milestone in the country's scientific and technological landscape. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the initiative, which is being developed with substantial support from the Japanese government. This move signals Ghana's strategic intention to join the global space community and leverage aerospace technology as a tool for national development and innovation under the administration of President John Mahama. To formalize the project, a comprehensive policy for the institution will soon be presented to the Cabinet for approval. This development follows the signing of strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Ghana and Japan, which include specific collaborations with the University of Ghana. These partnerships are designed to ensure that academic research and human capital development remain at the core of the new institution's mandate, providing a pipeline of Ghanaian experts in satellite technology and space science. The announcement was made during a high-profile dinner honoring Japanese astronaut Koichi Wakata, highlighting the strengthening diplomatic and scientific ties between the two nations. Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Yoshimoto praised Ghana's growing space program, emphasizing its vast potential for future technological advancements. The timing of this collaboration is particularly significant as Ghana and Japan prepare to celebrate major anniversaries of their bilateral relations next year. The establishment of this space institution is expected to have far-reaching implications for Ghana’s digital economy, climate monitoring capabilities, and telecommunications infrastructure. By partnering with Japan—a global leader in aerospace exploration—Ghana is positioning itself as a burgeoning hub for space research in West Africa. This initiative underscores a commitment to prioritizing high-tech sectors as catalysts for long-term economic transformation and scientific self-reliance.

Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority Introduces Biometric DVLAverify App for iOS and Web Registration
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Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority Introduces Biometric DVLAverify App for iOS and Web Registration

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has officially introduced the DVLAverify application for iOS devices and a corresponding web-based platform to streamline the vehicle registration process in Ghana. This development marks a significant step in the authority’s digital transformation agenda, providing a more convenient method for prospective vehicle owners to verify their identity. By integrating remote biometric identity verification, the new system aims to enhance service accessibility and reduce the need for physical visits to DVLA offices, thereby improving overall operational efficiency. The DVLAverify app is currently available for download on the Apple App Store, catering to iPhone users who need to complete biometric authentication as part of the vehicle registration cycle. For users without compatible iOS smartphones, the authority has launched a dedicated web portal that offers the same verification services. This multi-platform approach ensures that all citizens, regardless of their device preference, can benefit from the digitized verification process, making the system more inclusive and user-friendly. In addition to facilitating remote verification, the DVLA has incorporated various support options within both the mobile app and the web portal to assist applicants throughout the process. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce the administrative burden on both the authority and the public by eliminating long queues and minimizing manual documentation errors. The biometric feature also adds an essential layer of security, ensuring that vehicle registrations are tied to verified identities, which helps in curbing fraudulent activities within the transport sector. As the DVLA continues to modernize its operations, the rollout of DVLAverify represents a broader commitment to utilizing technology for better public service delivery. The authority has indicated that these digital tools will undergo continuous refinement to meet the evolving needs of motorists and vehicle owners across the country. This shift toward digital-first solutions aligns with national efforts to digitize administrative processes, setting a precedent for other government agencies to adopt similar technological innovations for enhanced transparency and convenience.

Minister Samuel George and NCA Coordinate Emergency Repairs Following Triple Fibre Cuts in Northern Ghana
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Minister Samuel George and NCA Coordinate Emergency Repairs Following Triple Fibre Cuts in Northern Ghana

The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has reported a massive disruption in telecommunications services across the five northern regions and parts of the Oti Region. The outage, which began on September 26, was triggered by triple fibre cuts on critical transmission routes, severely impacting both voice and data connectivity for millions of residents. The National Communications Authority (NCA) confirmed that the damage has affected 2G, 3G, and 4G networks, leaving many communities without reliable means of communication. Technical assessments identify the specific points of failure along three key transmission routes: Kintampo-Buipe, Wakawaka-Bamboi, and Hohoe-Jasikan. According to the Minister, the scale of the disruption is significant, impacting a combined total of 694 sites operating on 2G and 3G technology, as well as 521 sites providing 4G LTE services. These routes serve as the backbone for connectivity in the northern belt of the country, and their simultaneous failure has created a complex challenge for network stability. In response to the crisis, a multi-agency restoration effort is currently underway. Technical teams from MTN Ghana, Telecel Ghana, and the National Information Technology Agency (NITA) have been deployed to the affected sites to identify the exact locations of the cuts and initiate repairs. The NCA is actively monitoring these restoration efforts to ensure that service is returned to the public as quickly as possible. Minister Sam George has offered an apology to residents for the disruptions, assuring the public that restoration work is being treated with the highest priority. While the cause of the cuts has not been officially confirmed, such incidents are frequently linked to road construction or accidental damage during excavation works. This widespread outage highlights the vulnerability of the nation's digital infrastructure and the necessity for robust protection of transmission lines. As technical teams work around the clock, the NCA and the Ministry have pledged to provide further updates until full service is restored to all affected subscribers across the Northern and Oti regions.

Cyber Security Authority Warns Jobseekers of Rising Recruitment Scams and Website Cloning
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Cyber Security Authority Warns Jobseekers of Rising Recruitment Scams and Website Cloning

Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued an urgent public alert warning jobseekers about an increase in sophisticated recruitment scams targeting unsuspecting Ghanaians. Fraudsters are reportedly cloning official government websites and leveraging popular communication platforms, including SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Telegram, to disseminate fraudulent job offers. This warning comes as a response to several reported cases where phishing tactics were used to harvest sensitive personal data from victims by impersonating legitimate national institutions. According to the CSA, these criminal networks have become increasingly bold, specifically targeting sectors of high public interest. One prominent scam involves a fabricated recruitment drive allegedly linked to foreign security operations within the Ghana-Burkina Faso border region. Additionally, scammers have been circulating false claims that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is conducting a recruitment exercise that requires applicants to pay processing fees. The Authority emphasized that state agencies do not typically demand payments for employment opportunities and cautioned that such requests are a major red flag for fraudulent activity. To protect themselves, the CSA has advised the public to remain vigilant and look for tell-tale signs of cybercrime, such as poor grammar, spelling errors in advertisements, and the use of unofficial email addresses or social media accounts. Jobseekers are strongly encouraged to bypass third-party links and verify any employment vacancy directly with the human resource departments of the relevant institutions. The Authority further urged the public to report any suspicious online behavior or suspected recruitment fraud to the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-GH) or other relevant law enforcement agencies to help mitigate the spread of these digital threats.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (seated 2nd from right), Minister of Foreign Affairs; Hiroshi Yoshimoto (standing left), the Ambassador of Japan to Ghana; Koichi Wakata (seated 2nd from left), Japanese astronaut and Chief Technology Officer for Asia Pacific, Axiom; Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo (seated left), Vice-Chancellor, University of Ghana; Kadidja Iddrisu (seated right), Chief Director, MoFA; and other officials after the visit
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Minister Ablakwa Announces Establishment of Ghana’s First Space Institution in Partnership with Japan

Ghana is poised to enter a new era of scientific exploration with the upcoming establishment of the nation’s first dedicated space institution. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the initiative, which will be developed in close collaboration with the Japanese government. This move marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s technological roadmap, aiming to position the country as a leader in aerospace technology within the sub-region. The project follows the signing of strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) designed to facilitate knowledge transfer and technical support between the two nations. The formal framework for the institution is currently being finalized, with a comprehensive policy set to be presented to the Cabinet for approval in the coming weeks. A key component of this development is the partnership with the University of Ghana, which will serve as a hub for academic research and training in space sciences. Minister Ablakwa made these disclosures during a high-profile dinner held in honor of renowned Japanese astronaut Koichi Wakata. The event served as a platform to highlight how international cooperation can accelerate domestic goals in specialized fields like satellite technology and orbital research. Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, Hiroshi Yoshimoto, expressed strong optimism regarding the partnership, praising Ghana’s existing space program efforts and its vision for the future. He emphasized that the collaboration comes at a pivotal moment, as Ghana and Japan prepare to celebrate significant diplomatic anniversaries next year. According to the Ambassador, the establishment of this institution will unlock vast potential for scientific advancements that could benefit various sectors, including telecommunications, agriculture, and climate monitoring, through improved data collection and satellite imaging capabilities. As Ghana prepares to institutionalize its space ambitions, the move is expected to inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers. By leveraging Japan’s extensive expertise in aerospace, the Ghanaian government aims to build a sustainable ecosystem for innovation that reduces reliance on foreign data services. The next steps involve the formal cabinet endorsement and the subsequent implementation of the joint MoUs, paving the way for a permanent facility that will oversee Ghana's trajectory into the global space community.

DVLA Expands Digital Services with New DVLAverify App and Web Portal for Vehicle Registration
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DVLA Expands Digital Services with New DVLAverify App and Web Portal for Vehicle Registration

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has reached a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey with the official launch of the "DVLAverify" application for iOS and a complementary web-based platform. This new digital suite is designed to streamline the vehicle registration process by allowing prospective vehicle owners to conduct biometric identity verification remotely. By integrating biometric technology into a mobile and web interface, the DVLA aims to eliminate the need for physical presence during early verification stages, thereby reducing congestion at service centers and enhancing the overall user experience for Ghanaian citizens and residents. For users within the Apple ecosystem, the DVLAverify app is now available for download directly from the Apple App Store. The application leverages the sophisticated hardware of iOS devices to facilitate secure biometric checks, ensuring that the identity of the applicant is verified against official records with high precision. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the DVLA has also introduced a robust web-based portal. This ensures that individuals who do not own compatible iPhones or prefer using desktop interfaces can still access these essential verification services, maintaining a high standard of accessibility across various demographic groups. This initiative is part of a broader strategic effort by the DVLA to modernize its operations and provide more efficient, transparent, and accessible public services. Beyond the technical implementation, the Authority has established dedicated support options to assist applicants who may encounter challenges while navigating the new platforms. By prioritizing digital-first solutions, the DVLA is not only improving service delivery but also strengthening the security of vehicle registration in Ghana, as biometric verification provides a more reliable method of confirming ownership and identity compared to traditional manual processes. As Ghana continues to embrace digital innovation in governance, the introduction of DVLAverify represents a proactive step toward a more tech-driven public sector. The success of this platform is expected to set a precedent for other government agencies looking to digitize sensitive identity-based services. Moving forward, the DVLA is likely to continue monitoring user feedback to refine the application’s features, ensuring that the transition from manual to digital verification remains seamless and continues to meet the evolving needs of the motoring public.

Minister Sam George Reports Massive Telecom Blackout in Northern Ghana Following Triple Fibre Cuts
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Minister Sam George Reports Massive Telecom Blackout in Northern Ghana Following Triple Fibre Cuts

The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has announced a significant disruption of telecommunications services across the five northern regions of Ghana and parts of the Oti Region. The outage, caused by a rare triple fibre cut, has severed both voice and data connections for millions of residents, affecting critical communication infrastructure. The National Communications Authority (NCA) confirmed the scale of the disruption on September 26, noting that the damage spans three separate and vital transmission routes. According to reports from the Ministry, the technical failures occurred on the Kintampo-Buipe, Wakawaka-Bamboi, and Hohoe-Jasikan routes. These cuts have had a devastating impact on the regional network grid, knocking out services at 694 sites operating on 2G and 3G technology, as well as 521 4G sites. This multi-layered failure means that both basic telephony and high-speed internet services are largely unavailable in the affected areas, significantly hindering business operations, emergency services, and personal communication for the inhabitants. In response to the crisis, technical teams from the leading mobile network operators, MTN Ghana and Telecel Ghana, alongside the National Information Technology Agency (NITA), have been deployed to the sites to identify the exact points of failure and begin emergency repairs. The NCA is actively monitoring these restoration efforts to ensure that the digital backbone of the nation is restored as quickly as possible. Minister Sam George has assured the public that restoration work is a top priority, with teams working around the clock to bridge the communication gap. Both the Ministry and the NCA have issued formal apologies to consumers and residents for the severe inconvenience caused by the service blackout. While the immediate cause of the fibre cuts remains under investigation, the incident highlights the inherent vulnerability of the nation's digital corridors. The government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening the resilience of telecommunications infrastructure to prevent such widespread outages from recurring in the future.

Energy Commission Launches Management Platform to Oversee National Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
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Energy Commission Launches Management Platform to Oversee National Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

The Energy Commission of Ghana has unveiled plans to monitor licensed electric vehicle (EV) charging stations through a new digital platform, representing a major step toward regulating the country's emerging green transport sector. Speaking at a graduation ceremony for 884 electricians, Executive Secretary Adwoa Serwaa Bondzie announced the development of the Country-Level EV Charging System Management Platform. This central system is designed to provide comprehensive oversight of the national charging infrastructure, allowing authorities to track energy consumption patterns and manage potential outages to protect the integrity of the national grid. The announcement coincided with a celebration of professional standards in the electrical sector, as 85% of candidates successfully passed their Electrical Wiring Certification exams. Energy Commission Board Chairman Professor John Gatsi used the occasion to underscore the vital role of certified professionals in achieving Ghana’s ambitious energy goals. He noted that maintaining high standards in electrification is essential as the country prepares for a significant technological shift. Looking toward the future, Professor Gatsi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Energy Transition Framework, which targets a 35% electric vehicle penetration rate by 2035. This strategy is part of a larger plan to phase out petrol and diesel vehicle imports by 2045, significantly reducing Ghana's reliance on fossil fuels. By implementing a robust management platform today, the Energy Commission is ensuring that the necessary regulatory and technical frameworks are in place to support a sustainable and reliable electric vehicle ecosystem for decades to come.