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.

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Pencil Artist Aewura Arts Asserts AI Will Drive Up Value of Hand-Crafted Artworks

Ghanaian pencil artist Aewura Arts has expressed a bold perspective on the intersection of technology and creativity, arguing that the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) will ultimately enhance the market value of traditional, hand-crafted art. Speaking during an interview on "The Career Trail" via Joy Learning TV, she remained unfazed by the growing presence of AI in the creative landscape. She suggested that while technology continues to evolve, the demand for authentic, human-generated pieces is likely to increase as a direct response to the digital saturation of the art world. At the heart of Aewura Arts' argument is the belief that the unique "human touch" and the visible effort behind original pencil drawings provide an irreplaceable value that AI-generated imagery lacks. She emphasized that authenticity remains a primary driver for art collectors and enthusiasts. "I don't think AI can push us out. People like authentic things," she stated, predicting that original pieces will actually command higher prices as AI advancements make digital alternatives more common. This perspective positions the scarcity of manual craftsmanship as a premium asset in an increasingly automated era. Rather than viewing generative technology as a threat to her livelihood, the artist views AI as a complementary tool that can potentially enhance the creative industry. She encouraged fellow artists to see technology as a means to expand their creative horizons rather than a reason to retreat. By integrating modern tools while maintaining the core of traditional techniques, Aewura Arts believes the industry can achieve a higher level of innovation. Her outlook suggests a future where the role of the artist evolves into a hybrid of traditional mastery and technological fluency. This optimistic outlook highlights a growing sentiment among some creative professionals that technology cannot replace the soul of manual artistry. As AI becomes more prevalent in daily life, the distinction between machine-made and man-made becomes more pronounced, potentially creating a luxury niche for traditional work. Aewura Arts' confidence serves as a reminder that even as tools change, the value of human skill and personal expression remains central to the cultural and economic worth of the arts.

NCA and Ericsson Partner to Advance 5G Deployment and Digital Transformation in Ghana
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NCA and Ericsson Partner to Advance 5G Deployment and Digital Transformation in Ghana

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has hosted a high-level seven-member delegation from Ericsson to strengthen strategic collaboration on Ghana’s telecommunications infrastructure. Led by Ericsson President Patrick Johansson, the visit served as a platform for both entities to address current industry challenges and align on future goals. The discussions centered on critical areas of development, including the nationwide deployment of 5G technology, the enhancement of cybersecurity protocols, and the adoption of sustainable energy solutions within the communications sector. Deputy Director General of the NCA, Suleman Salifu, emphasized the regulator's commitment to ensuring that communication services remain secure, reliable, and accessible to all citizens. A primary focus of the meeting was the regulatory framework necessary for 5G oversight. As Ghana prepares for expanded next-generation connectivity, the NCA is prioritizing policies that foster innovation while maintaining high standards of service quality and national security. Salifu noted that the partnership with global technology leaders like Ericsson is vital for navigating the technical complexities of these advancements. This high-level engagement occurs as Ericsson celebrates its 30th anniversary of operations in Ghana. During the talks, Patrick Johansson reaffirmed the company’s long-term dedication to supporting the country’s digital transformation. Over the past three decades, Ericsson has been a key player in the evolution of Ghana’s mobile networks, and the delegation expressed a strong desire to continue this legacy through cutting-edge innovation and infrastructure support. The meeting also explored sustainable energy initiatives, reflecting a shared goal to reduce the carbon footprint of telecommunications operations across the country. The session concluded with the exchange of commemorative tokens, marking the significant milestones of both the NCA and Ericsson. This renewed partnership is expected to accelerate the delivery of high-speed connectivity and robust digital services, positioning Ghana to better compete in the global digital economy. As the NCA continues its oversight role, the collaboration with Ericsson is anticipated to drive technical excellence and provide the foundation for future technological breakthroughs under the nation’s current digital agenda.

Anthropic Exposes Global Misuse of Claude AI for Weapons Development, Surveillance, and Propaganda
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Anthropic Exposes Global Misuse of Claude AI for Weapons Development, Surveillance, and Propaganda

Anthropic has released a comprehensive 154-page report detailing the various ways its Claude AI system has been weaponized and exploited for malicious activities across the globe. The findings highlight a growing trend where advanced artificial intelligence is being redirected from its intended helpful purposes toward high-stakes operations, including the development of military hardware, mass surveillance, and large-scale disinformation campaigns. This disclosure comes as part of an effort to increase transparency regarding the risks posed by Large Language Models (LLMs) and the persistent efforts of bad actors to bypass safety protocols. Among the most alarming revelations is the use of Claude in the development of lethal technologies and intrusive monitoring tools. In Yemen, groups utilized the AI to assist in missile-making through a series of fragmented conversations designed to evade detection. Similarly, freelance developers in Russia reportedly used the system to create autonomous software for kamikaze drones intended for use in the conflict in Ukraine. Beyond kinetic warfare, the technology was also applied to digital repression; in Mali, a tech consultant developed a surveillance application capable of monitoring approximately 25 million SIM cards, illustrating the scale at which AI can facilitate mass surveillance. The report also sheds light on sophisticated propaganda and fraudulent operations that leverage AI's natural language capabilities. In France, a company known as LKM mass-produced fake political articles across a network of websites to sway public opinion, while a UAE-based operation generated testimonies and reports to target critics of government policies. Furthermore, the report identified a significant scam in China where a network of dating apps deceived users by claiming to be staffed by real individuals, while in reality, a significant portion of interactions were automated through Claude. These instances demonstrate how AI is being used to automate deception and influence operations on a global scale. As AI capabilities continue to evolve, the findings from Anthropic serve as a stark warning to the tech industry and global regulators regarding the dual-use nature of these technologies. While the company has identified these specific cases and taken steps to mitigate risks, the report underscores the persistent challenge of preventing malicious actors from exploiting powerful AI tools. These revelations are expected to fuel ongoing debates about the necessity of stricter international oversight and the ethical responsibility of AI developers to safeguard their platforms against being used as instruments of warfare, repression, or manipulation.

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Dubai International Airport Deploys Portable Biometric Devices to Slash Passport Control Times

Dubai’s aviation authorities have officially launched a groundbreaking mobile passport control service designed to streamline the arrival and departure process for travelers at one of the world's busiest transit hubs. The new service equips immigration officers with portable biometric devices, allowing them to process passenger data directly and efficiently without the need for traditional, static counters. This technological leap is expected to significantly reduce congestion and enhance the overall passenger experience by providing a more flexible and responsive approach to border management. The new system boasts an impressive efficiency rate, with each transaction taking approximately 12 seconds to complete. By utilizing advanced biometric verification, the portable devices ensure that security standards remain high while accelerating the flow of traffic. Initially, the service is being prioritized for UAE citizens and residents arriving on inbound flights. This targeted rollout follows a successful trial period conducted between May and August 2026, during which officials successfully processed over 31,000 transactions using the mobile technology, proving the system's reliability and speed under real-world conditions. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai developed this solution to address the growing volume of international travel and the need for more adaptable border control measures. The mobility of the system allows airport staff to respond dynamically to surges in passenger volume by deploying officers to specific areas as needed, rather than forcing passengers to queue at fixed locations. This shift toward mobile infrastructure reflects a broader global trend in aviation technology, where biometric and portable solutions are increasingly replacing traditional processing methods to meet the demands of modern travelers. Looking ahead, Dubai authorities have signaled that this launch is only the first phase of a broader digital transformation in airport operations. Future iterations of the mobile service are expected to include expanded travel-related functionalities, potentially opening the service to international tourists and integrating more comprehensive digital visa verification features. As Dubai continues to position itself as a global leader in smart city technology, this mobile passport initiative serves as a benchmark for how modern airports can leverage innovation to balance rigorous security requirements with the increasing demand for seamless, contactless travel.

National Communications Authority Grants MTN Ghana 700MHz Spectrum for $109.9m to Drive 5G Expansion
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National Communications Authority Grants MTN Ghana 700MHz Spectrum for $109.9m to Drive 5G Expansion

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has reached a significant milestone in Ghana’s telecommunications evolution by progressing with the assignment of critical spectrum bands intended for 5G and high-speed mobile broadband services. In a recent announcement, the regulator confirmed that Scancom Plc, operating as MTN Ghana, emerged as the sole successful applicant for the 700 MHz band. The telecommunications giant has been awarded two lots within this frequency for a total consideration of US$109.9 million, marking a substantial investment in the country's digital infrastructure. The allocation process targeted three primary frequency ranges: the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz, and 3 GHz bands. While MTN Ghana dominated the 700 MHz acquisition, the other bands saw varying levels of interest from industry players. The 2.3 GHz band, which had five lots available, was under-subscribed, receiving only four applications. In contrast, the 3 GHz band experienced high demand that exceeded the current supply, with four different entities vying for just three available lots. This competitive interest underscores the industry's urgency to secure the necessary airwaves for next-generation connectivity. According to the NCA, the successful assignment of these frequencies is a pivotal step toward the commercial rollout of 5G services across Ghana. By providing the spectrum necessary for wider coverage and higher data speeds, the regulator aims to enhance the overall quality of mobile broadband. The NCA has indicated that it will now proceed with the subsequent stages of the licensing and allocation process for the remaining bands. Further results and the final identities of the other successful applicants for the 2.3 GHz and 3 GHz frequencies are expected to be announced once the administrative and technical evaluations are completed. This development comes at a time when the Ghanaian government continues to prioritize digital transformation as a pillar for economic growth. The infusion of $109.9 million from the spectrum sale represents a significant revenue boost for the state, while simultaneously setting the stage for improved technological competition. As MTN Ghana prepares to utilize its newly acquired 700 MHz lots, the focus shifts to how quickly these technical gains will translate into tangible service improvements for Ghanaian consumers and businesses.

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Ghana Police Service to Launch Traffitech Digital Traffic Enforcement System in October 2026

In a significant move toward modernizing law enforcement, the Ghana Police Service has announced the upcoming implementation of Traffitech, an automated digital traffic law enforcement system. Set to officially launch on October 1, 2026, the initiative represents a strategic shift toward utilizing technology to enhance road safety and ensure stricter adherence to traffic regulations. This digital transition is specifically designed to minimize direct human intervention in traffic policing, thereby reducing opportunities for corruption and improving the overall efficiency of the service. By shifting away from manual enforcement, the police aim to create a more transparent and objective system for monitoring road users. According to Director Chief Superintendent Alexander Kwaku Obeng, the Traffitech system will leverage advanced camera technology to capture real-time data on various traffic violations. The system is engineered to automatically identify vehicle owners at the moment a violation occurs, streamlining a process that previously relied heavily on physical stops. Once a breach is recorded, the police will be able to issue electronic notices of violation to the offenders within a 14-day window. This rapid response and high certainty of detection are expected to act as significant deterrents to reckless driving and other illegal road behaviors that frequently contribute to fatal accidents across the country's road networks. Before the full-scale nationwide deployment, the Ghana Police Service will conduct comprehensive test operations starting on September 14. These tests are intended to fine-tune the system's technical capabilities, verify data accuracy, and ensure a seamless transition for the motoring public. By automating the identification and notification process, the police service aims to cultivate a culture of voluntary compliance among motorists rather than relying on punitive roadside confrontations. As the October deadline approaches, the Traffitech initiative stands as a cornerstone of the Ghana Police Service's broader strategy to use digital innovation to protect lives and maintain order on Ghana’s roads.

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Agentic Commerce: How AI Agents are Transforming the $7.4 Trillion Global E-Commerce Landscape

The digital marketplace is on the cusp of a significant transformation as "Agentic Commerce"—a model where artificial intelligence (AI) agents conduct autonomous purchasing decisions—begins to take root. This evolution comes at a time when the global e-commerce industry, currently valued at approximately $7.4 trillion, is projected to reach $8 trillion by 2027. Unlike traditional online shopping, which relies on human interaction with digital storefronts, agentic commerce leverages advanced AI technologies to facilitate transactions ranging from complex price comparisons to final payment execution without direct human intervention. At its core, this technological shift focuses on a streamlined four-stage process: intent capture, agent selection, authorization, and payment execution. By understanding a consumer's specific needs and preferences, AI agents can navigate the vast digital landscape to find the best value and finalize purchases autonomously. This system promises enhanced personalization and operational efficiency, fundamentally changing the role of the consumer from an active searcher to a supervisor of digital proxies. However, the rise of these autonomous buyers introduces the "principal-agent problem," necessitating a high degree of trust and alignment to ensure that the AI acts strictly in the best interest of the consumer. Despite its potential for revolutionary growth, the adoption of agentic commerce faces significant hurdles. Industry experts, including Dr. Kwami Ahiabenu, highlight critical challenges regarding data privacy, security, and ethical considerations. Protecting sensitive consumer data and ensuring that autonomous transactions are resilient against fraud remain top priorities for developers and regulators. Furthermore, the industry must address the ethical implications of machines making autonomous financial decisions, which requires robust regulatory frameworks and transparent algorithms to maintain public confidence. Looking ahead, the impact of agentic commerce is expected to be profound. Projections suggest that by 2030, AI agents could mediate between $3 trillion and $5 trillion in global consumer transactions. As AI continues to advance in capability and reliability, its role as a central mediator in commerce will likely solidify, marking a new era where machines are not just tools for shopping, but the primary participants in the global economy. This shift underscores a pivotal moment for technology and retail, requiring businesses to adapt to a world where their customers are increasingly non-human.

Anthropic Disrupts Global AI Misuse Including State-Sponsored Surveillance and Biological Weapon Research
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Anthropic Disrupts Global AI Misuse Including State-Sponsored Surveillance and Biological Weapon Research

Anthropic, the developer of the Claude AI model, has released a comprehensive threat intelligence report detailing the disruption of multiple attempts to weaponize its technology. Between December 2025 and August 2026, the company intervened in various malicious activities ranging from state-sponsored surveillance and cyber espionage to the exploration of biological and conventional weapons development. This first-of-its-kind report highlights the growing dual-use risk of frontier AI, where powerful tools designed for productivity are repurposed by malicious actors for harmful ends. A significant portion of the report focuses on state-sponsored actors utilizing AI to target vulnerable populations. Operations originating from China, Iran, and West Africa were reportedly shut down after attempting to use Claude for surveillance of dissidents and ethnic minorities. In one instance, a Malian contractor used the AI for intelligence gathering, while Iranian operatives leveraged social media identification techniques. Chinese groups were also found to be exploiting the model by rerouting user requests through fake accounts, a move that potentially violated privacy agreements while facilitating broader surveillance efforts. Beyond espionage, the report sounds an alarm over the potential for AI to accelerate the development of biological and conventional weaponry. Anthropic blocked several projects involving suspicious biological research, noting that while the specific intentions of some researchers remained ambiguous, the risk of catastrophic consequences necessitated immediate intervention. The misuse extended into the digital realm as well, with the company disrupting fraud schemes and the creation of fake dating apps, underscoring the versatility of AI in executing both sophisticated geopolitical attacks and common cybercrimes. In response to these findings, Anthropic has enhanced its internal processes to detect and mitigate future misuse while calling for urgent industry-wide discussions on AI safety. The company emphasized that the rapid progression of AI technology requires international collaboration on safety standards and robust regulatory frameworks. By sharing intelligence with authorities and industry partners, Anthropic aims to foster a collective defense against the evolving threats posed by advanced artificial intelligence, ensuring that the technology remains a force for benefit rather than a tool for global instability.

Stablecoins Emerge as Critical Financial Tool for Ghanaian Traders Amid Global Regulatory Shifts
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Stablecoins Emerge as Critical Financial Tool for Ghanaian Traders Amid Global Regulatory Shifts

Digital finance in Ghana is witnessing a transformative shift as stablecoins emerge as a viable alternative to traditional banking and volatile cryptocurrencies. Designed to maintain a steady value by being pegged to assets like the US dollar, stablecoins such as USDT and USDC are increasingly being adopted across the African continent. This trend is particularly relevant in Ghana, where businesses and individuals face the dual challenges of local currency fluctuations and the high costs often associated with conventional cross-border payment systems. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies known for their extreme price swings, stablecoins provide the technical advantages of blockchain—transparency, security, and speed—without the typical risk of sudden value loss. For Ghanaian traders who rely on international markets, these digital assets facilitate nearly instantaneous transactions at a fraction of the cost charged by many commercial banks. By bypassing the bureaucratic hurdles and high fees of traditional finance, local businesses can maintain liquidity and manage their capital more efficiently in a globalized marketplace. The global landscape for these assets is also maturing through significant legislative milestones. The introduction of the GENIUS Act in the United States and the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation in Europe are providing the necessary legal frameworks to enhance the stability and credibility of stablecoins. According to industry experts at WeWire Ghana Limited, these regulations are crucial for building trust among institutional investors and local users alike, ensuring that digital finance can scale safely and provide a reliable backbone for international trade. As Ghana continues to strengthen its digital economy, the integration of stablecoins represents a potential cornerstone for future economic growth. By simplifying the movement of money and reducing the barriers to entry for international trade, these "digital dollars" are set to play a pivotal role in the financial inclusion of local merchants. As the regulatory environment evolves both globally and locally, the shift toward widespread stablecoin adoption could fundamentally reshape how Ghana interacts with the global financial system, providing a buffer against local currency volatility.

Development Bank Ghana and Partners Launch 'Boa Mi' AI-Powered Finance Platform for Farmers
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Development Bank Ghana and Partners Launch 'Boa Mi' AI-Powered Finance Platform for Farmers

In a significant move to bridge the digital divide in Ghana's agricultural sector, Development Bank Ghana LTD (DBG), in partnership with Opportunity International (OI) and the Ghana Incentive-Based Risk-Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (GIRSAL), has officially launched 'Boa Mi.' This innovative, AI-driven agricultural finance platform is designed to provide critical financial guidance and real-time insights to smallholder farmers and agricultural agents across the country. By leveraging artificial intelligence, the initiative seeks to streamline access to information and credit, addressing long-standing barriers that have hindered productivity and financial inclusion in the rural economy. The platform’s name, 'Boa Mi,' is derived from the Akan phrase meaning 'help me,' reflecting its mission to serve as a supportive tool for those on the front lines of food production. Currently operating via WhatsApp, the platform offers a user-friendly interface that allows farmers to interact with sophisticated AI technology using a familiar communication tool. This choice of medium is strategic, as it minimizes the learning curve and utilizes existing mobile data infrastructure to reach users who might otherwise struggle with complex financial software. While the service is currently available in English, the partners have announced plans to expand its reach by integrating local languages, ensuring that the platform is accessible to a broader demographic of farmers. At present, 'Boa Mi' provides its services free of charge, offering real-time guidance that can help agents and farmers make more informed decisions regarding crop management, market trends, and financial planning. This data-driven approach is expected to improve the creditworthiness of small-scale producers by providing them with the tools needed to manage their operations more professionally. Unveiled at the ICT Sector Financing Roundtable, the launch of 'Boa Mi' underscores a growing commitment among Ghanaian financial institutions to integrate technology into traditional sectors. By combining the expertise of DBG, OI, and GIRSAL, the platform represents a multi-sectoral effort to modernize agriculture through digital innovation. As the platform scales, its potential to transform the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder farmers highlights the pivotal role of AI in driving sustainable economic growth and food security in Ghana.

NCA Clears MTN, Telecel, and Goal for Next Stage of 5G Spectrum Licensing
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NCA Clears MTN, Telecel, and Goal for Next Stage of 5G Spectrum Licensing

The National Communications Authority (NCA) of Ghana has officially advanced three telecommunications companies to the next phase of the 5G spectrum licensing process. In a press release dated September 9, 2026, the regulator announced that Scancom Plc (MTN Ghana), Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited (Telecel Ghana), and Goal Telecommunications Ltd successfully navigated the initial qualification stage. This milestone marks a critical step in the government's efforts to introduce high-speed 5G technology to the country, aiming to significantly enhance mobile broadband capabilities and support the nation’s ongoing digital transformation agenda. The NCA revealed that it received a total of four applications by the submission deadline on August 27, 2026. Following a rigorous evaluation of these submissions, the authority determined that three of the four candidates met the necessary criteria to move forward. While MTN, Telecel, and Goal Telecommunications secured their spots in the subsequent rounds, the application from Infrava Ltd was not qualified during the initial assessment. The selection of these major players underscores the competitive nature of the licensing process as the country seeks established partners to deploy next-generation network infrastructure. Moving forward, the qualified applicants will proceed to Stage 3 of the licensing procedure. This phase involves the opening and ranking of the "Best Price Offers" submitted by the companies, a process that will determine the final allocation of the 5G spectrum. The NCA noted that the specific dates for these rankings would be communicated to the participants separately. As Ghana looks toward a more connected future, the successful rollout of 5G is expected to catalyze economic growth, improve digital public services, and provide the high-speed connectivity required for emerging technologies.

Anthropic Safety Researcher Evan Hubinger Warns of 10% Risk of AI-Induced Human Extinction Within a Decade
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Anthropic Safety Researcher Evan Hubinger Warns of 10% Risk of AI-Induced Human Extinction Within a Decade

Evan Hubinger, a prominent safety researcher at the AI firm Anthropic, has sounded an urgent alarm regarding the rapid progression of artificial intelligence, estimating that there is a greater than 10% chance that the technology could lead to human extinction within the next decade. While Hubinger notes that current AI models do not yet possess such catastrophic capabilities, he warns that the current trajectory of development is leading toward existential threats that humanity may soon be unable to contain. This stark assessment adds significant weight to the ongoing global debate about the safety and ethics of advanced machine learning systems. The researcher's warnings have sparked a wave of reaction from both the scientific and political communities. Dame Wendy Hall, a renowned computer scientist, expressed profound shock at the severity of Hubinger’s prediction, reflecting a broader concern among experts that the public may not be fully aware of the risks involved. The conversation is no longer limited to theoretical possibilities; experts point to recent AI-related cyber-attacks as evidence that the technology can already be weaponized in ways that destabilize global security and infrastructure. In response to these growing fears, political leaders are advocating for a coordinated global response. Former UK Treasury chief Darren Jones has called for the immediate drafting of international treaties specifically focused on AI safety. These proponents of regulation argue that national laws are insufficient for a technology that transcends borders and that a unified, global framework is the only way to ensure that development remains within safe parameters. The call for such treaties highlights a shift toward viewing AI safety as a matter of international security rather than just a technical or corporate responsibility. As the industry moves forward, the focus is increasingly turning toward responsible development—a concept that Hubinger and other safety advocates argue must be more than just a buzzword. The next decade is seen as a pivotal period where the decisions made by AI developers and world governments will determine whether artificial intelligence becomes a tool for unprecedented human progress or a catalyst for global catastrophe. The intensifying dialogue suggests that the window for implementing effective safety guardrails is closing as quickly as the technology is advancing.