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.

Minister Samuel Nartey George Urges West African Developers to Secure Digital Sovereignty at ECOWAS Hackathon
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Minister Samuel Nartey George Urges West African Developers to Secure Digital Sovereignty at ECOWAS Hackathon

Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has issued a strong call for West African nations to prioritize digital security as a matter of national sovereignty. Speaking at the opening of the ECOWAS Regional Hackathon 2026 in Accra, the Minister warned that a failure to protect local digital infrastructure would lead to an unsustainable dependency on foreign vendors and expertise. He emphasized that for West Africa to truly own its digital future, it must cultivate a homegrown workforce capable of defending its systems against increasingly sophisticated global threats. The urgency of this call is underscored by findings from the Interpol Africa Cyberthreat Assessment Report 2025, which indicates a sharp rise in cybercrimes across the continent, including complex ransomware attacks. Minister George highlighted a staggering global shortage of over four million cybersecurity professionals, noting that the talent gap is particularly severe in Africa. By failing to bridge this gap, he argued, the region remains vulnerable to economic and security disruptions that could undermine years of digital progress and national independence. To counter these threats, Ghana has implemented several strategic initiatives through its Cyber Security Authority (CSA). The Minister pointed to the One Million Coders Programme as a cornerstone of the government's effort to build local capacity in coding and cybersecurity. This program is designed to empower young Ghanaians with the technical skills needed to create secure software and manage digital defenses, thereby reducing reliance on external security solutions and fostering a culture of innovation and ethical technology use. The 2026 ECOWAS Regional Hackathon serves as a vital platform for collaboration among young innovators from across the sub-region. Minister George encouraged participants to network and share insights, viewing the competition not just as a technical challenge but as a mission to strengthen collective regional resilience. He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to working with other ECOWAS member states to develop robust cybersecurity frameworks, ensuring that West Africa can navigate the digital age with confidence and self-reliance.

Ghana Cybersecurity Industry Forum Rallies Stakeholders to Address High Certification Fees and Regulatory Barriers
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Ghana Cybersecurity Industry Forum Rallies Stakeholders to Address High Certification Fees and Regulatory Barriers

The Ghana Cybersecurity Industry Forum (GCIF) has successfully launched its maiden Industry Engagement Webinar, drawing over 200 participants to deliberate on the future of the nation's digital defense sector. Led by Dr. Muhammed Siraj, the inaugural session served as a critical platform for professionals, students, and members of the diaspora to examine the evolving framework established under the Cybersecurity Act of 2020. The engagement highlights a pivotal step in mobilizing the local cybersecurity community as the industry prepares for a formal membership registration process slated for completion by June 30, 2026. During the session, significant attention was directed toward the financial and administrative hurdles currently facing cybersecurity practitioners in Ghana. A primary point of contention was the proposed GH"5,000 certification fee for Tier One practitioners, which many participants argued is prohibitively high for individual professionals. Stakeholders voiced concerns that such steep entry costs, coupled with potentially excessive regulatory burdens, could stifle local investment and discourage emerging talent from entering the field. Industry experts warned that without a more balanced approach, the sector could face a significant loss of talent to international markets. As a statutory platform, the GCIF is designed to facilitate structured dialogue between industry players and policymakers to enhance national cyber resilience. To create a more inclusive ecosystem, the Forum has proposed a two-category membership structure that accommodates both established service providers and students. This approach aims to provide a clear pathway for professional development while ensuring that the industry’s collective voice is represented in national policy discussions. Dr. Siraj emphasized that the forum operates to ensure regulations support rather than hinder the growth of the digital economy. Looking ahead, the GCIF remains committed to its mandate of bridging the gap between the private sector and government authorities. The successful mobilization of stakeholders during this maiden webinar underscores the urgent need for a unified front in addressing evolving cyber threats. As the registration deadline approaches, the Forum plans to consolidate the feedback gathered during these sessions into formal submissions for policymakers, advocating for a regulatory environment that secures Ghana's digital landscape while remaining competitive and accessible.

Artificial Intelligence: Reshaping the Global Economy through Advanced Learning and Reasoning
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Artificial Intelligence: Reshaping the Global Economy through Advanced Learning and Reasoning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fundamentally reshaping the fabric of modern society, marking a historic transition from traditional, rule-based programming to sophisticated systems capable of autonomous learning and reasoning. This technological evolution is no longer confined to the realms of science fiction; it is now an essential driver of the global digital economy. By processing vast amounts of data and utilizing complex algorithms, AI is enabling machines to solve problems and understand natural language with unprecedented accuracy, fundamentally altering how humans interact with the digital world. The practical applications of AI are already deeply embedded across critical sectors including healthcare, finance, education, and agriculture. In daily life, this technology manifests through intuitive virtual assistants, personalized recommendation engines, and advanced fraud detection systems that safeguard financial transactions. These innovations rely on a robust infrastructure of machine learning models and neural networks, which allow for enhanced decision-making and operational efficiency. As these systems become more integrated into smart home technologies and professional workflows, their ability to address complex challenges across multiple domains continues to grow. As the AI landscape matures, it is creating a new hierarchy of professional and social requirements, ranging from basic digital literacy for the general public to advanced statistical and programming skills for technical specialists. Beyond individual convenience, the macroeconomic implications of AI are profound. Current forecasts suggest that the integration of AI could significantly bolster global GDP over the coming decades by driving massive increases in productivity and accuracy. For businesses and nations alike, the focus is shifting toward leveraging these tools to enhance customer engagement and maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly automated world.

Ghana's Deputy Minister Mohammed Adam Sukparu Urges Africa to Lead Digital Innovation and Data Sovereignty
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Ghana's Deputy Minister Mohammed Adam Sukparu Urges Africa to Lead Digital Innovation and Data Sovereignty

Ghana's Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Mohammed Adam Sukparu, has issued a powerful call for African nations to reclaim their digital destinies. Speaking at the 19th eLearning Africa Conference held in Accra, Sukparu emphasized that the continent must move beyond being a passive consumer of global technology. Instead, he argued, Africa must position itself as a lead creator and regulator of digital solutions that are tailored to its unique cultural and economic landscapes. This shift is seen as essential to ensuring that the digital revolution serves African interests rather than external agendas. Central to the Minister's address was the critical issue of data sovereignty and the risks associated with a heavy reliance on externally developed systems. Sukparu warned that adopting foreign-made artificial intelligence (AI) tools without critical evaluation—particularly in the education sector—could expose the continent to algorithmic biases and data vulnerabilities. By controlling their own data and digital infrastructure, African nations can mitigate these risks and ensure that technological advancements align with local realities. He stressed that without such autonomy, Africa remains susceptible to digital colonial influences that may not prioritize the continent’s specific developmental needs. Highlighting Ghana's proactive stance, the Deputy Minister pointed to several key initiatives designed to bolster the nation's digital independence. These include the development of a National AI Strategy and the establishment of a national Data Hub, both of which aim to provide a structured framework for innovation and secure data management. These steps are intended to serve as a blueprint for how African nations can build robust ecosystems that support indigenous technological growth while maintaining high standards of security and ethics. As Africa continues to navigate the complexities of the global digital economy, Sukparu's message underscores the urgency of collective action and local adaptation. The transition from consumer to creator is not merely a technical challenge but a strategic necessity for long-term sovereignty. By prioritizing home-grown solutions and rigorous regulatory frameworks, African countries can foster an environment where technology acts as a true catalyst for progress, education, and economic empowerment, ultimately shaping a future defined by African innovation.

Getty Images Sir Keir Starmer talking at a lectern which says London in white writing against a blue background
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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Issues Three-Month Ultimatum to Apple and Google Over Child Safety and Explicit Content

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has issued a definitive mandate to major technology companies, specifically naming Apple and Google, to implement robust safety measures on smartphones and tablets to prevent children from viewing or circulating nude images. This directive requires tech giants to either enable existing built-in features or develop new software updates that effectively block access to and the sharing of explicit content for users under the age of 18. The move is part of an intensifying government effort to bolster child protection online, building upon the foundations of the UK's Online Safety Act in response to rising concerns regarding the exposure of minors to digital dangers. The Prime Minister has set a strict three-month deadline for these companies to comply voluntarily. Should they fail to meet this window, the government has warned of impending legislation that could impose heavy fines and even criminal liability for tech executives. While the proposed measures specifically target minors, Starmer clarified that adults will still be permitted to access such content, provided they undergo a rigorous age verification process. The government's stance emphasizes that the moral responsibility for safeguarding children online rests heavily on the innovators who provide the platforms and hardware used by young people. Reaction to the government's ultimatum has been mixed, though child safety campaigners have largely welcomed the move. The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) expressed support for the initiative, urging swift accountability to ensure that tech firms prioritize the well-being of young users. For their part, Apple and Google have reiterated their commitment to child safety. Apple, in particular, pointed to its existing built-in blocking features designed for minors, although the government is pushing for more comprehensive and universal implementation across all devices and services. Despite the push for safety, the directive has sparked debate regarding digital privacy and the practicalities of enforcement. Critics and privacy advocates have raised concerns over the ethical implications of mandatory ID checks for internet access and the potential for increased surveillance. Additionally, this mandate may only be the first step in a broader regulatory shift, as the government continues to explore policies that could further restrict social media access for younger children. The next three months will be a critical period for the tech industry as it navigates the balance between technological innovation, user privacy, and the escalating demand for child protection.

Ace Anan Ankomah Calls for African Technological Sovereignty and Indigenous AI Development at SOS-HGIC Graduation
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Ace Anan Ankomah Calls for African Technological Sovereignty and Indigenous AI Development at SOS-HGIC Graduation

Prominent Ghanaian lawyer Ace Anan Ankomah has issued a powerful call to action for African nations to transition from being passive consumers of technology to active creators of artificial intelligence (AI). Delivering the 2026 Commencement Address at the SOS-Hermann Gmeiner International College (SOS-HGIC) in Tema, Mr. Ankomah warned that the continent risks being marginalized in the global technological revolution unless it asserts its own voice. He emphasized that Africa must invest in innovation and ethical leadership to ensure that the digital future reflects the continent's unique values and realities rather than relying on external frameworks that may not account for local context. Central to Ankomah’s address was the concept of ‘technological sovereignty,’ which he argued is essential to preventing the perpetuation of existing global inequalities. He noted that AI systems designed without African participation often lack the nuance required for effective application in critical sectors such as healthcare and finance. By building indigenous AI solutions, African nations can create tools specifically tailored to their developmental needs, ensuring that technology serves as a bridge for progress rather than a barrier. Ankomah stressed that this shift is not merely a technical requirement but a Pan-African responsibility to shape the ethical frameworks governing these emerging systems. Addressing the graduating class, Ankomah urged the next generation of African leaders to blend intellectual excellence with a strong ethical foundation. He described the graduates as the potential architects of an AI-driven future, tasking them with the responsibility of becoming conscientious technologists and entrepreneurs. The legal expert expressed optimism regarding Africa's potential for innovation, citing the growing number of young entrepreneurs who are already beginning to challenge global norms. He maintained that combining technical skill with ethical responsibility is the only way to influence the global AI landscape positively and protect African interests. In conclusion, Ankomah’s speech served as both a warning and a roadmap for the continent's digital transformation. He argued that the current era offers a unique opportunity for Africa to achieve self-determination through technology, provided there is a concerted effort to cultivate local talent and leadership. By fostering an environment where innovation is paired with ethical considerations, Africa can secure its place as a leader in the global tech ecosystem, moving beyond consumption to become a primary contributor to the world's technological advancement.

Yango Group Hosts Innovation Day 2026 in Abidjan to Drive Africa's Digital Economy and SME Growth
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Yango Group Hosts Innovation Day 2026 in Abidjan to Drive Africa's Digital Economy and SME Growth

Yango Group recently convened over 200 influential leaders from the public and private sectors for its Innovation Day 2026 in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. This high-profile gathering served as a platform to showcase cutting-edge advancements in digital services and to discuss the future of the African digital economy. The event underscored Yango’s commitment to fostering technological progress across the continent, bringing together government officials, entrepreneurs, and technology experts to explore how digital solutions can address local challenges and stimulate economic development. Central to the event were live demonstrations of emerging technologies, including sophisticated AI-powered tools and autonomous delivery robots designed to streamline logistics in urban environments. Beyond hardware and software showcases, the Innovation Day celebrated human capital development. A significant milestone was the graduation of 20 participants from the Yango Fellowship Programme. This initiative is designed to equip the next generation of African tech talent with the skills necessary to lead in an increasingly digitized global marketplace, bridging the gap between academic learning and industry needs. Strengthening its footprint in the regional economy, Yango Group announced a strategic partnership with GUDE-PME. This collaboration is specifically aimed at empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the mobility and logistics sectors. By providing these businesses with access to digital tools and professional networks, the partnership seeks to enhance operational efficiency and drive sustainable growth for local entrepreneurs. This move aligns with broader regional efforts to formalize and digitize the transport and delivery industries, which are vital components of the Ivorian economy. The success of Innovation Day 2026 highlights the growing importance of Abidjan as a regional hub for technological innovation. By facilitating dialogue between policymakers and tech innovators, Yango is positioning itself as more than just a service provider, but as a key stakeholder in Africa's digital transformation. As the continent continues to embrace digital adoption, initiatives like the Fellowship Programme and strategic SME partnerships are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring that the benefits of the digital revolution are felt across all levels of society, from corporate boardrooms to local logistics providers.

Maximus Ametorgoh Challenges Feasibility of National ID Verification for Adult Content in Ghana
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Maximus Ametorgoh Challenges Feasibility of National ID Verification for Adult Content in Ghana

Technology consultant Maximus Ametorgoh has raised significant concerns regarding proposals by the Ghanaian government to implement mandatory national ID verification for accessing pornographic websites. Speaking on Joy FM’s Midday News, Ametorgoh challenged the feasibility of the proposed system, which is currently being discussed as part of a broader strategy led by the Minister for Communications to enhance child online safety and digital safeguarding. While child rights advocates have largely supported the move toward stricter access controls, Ametorgoh warns that the technical and security implications of such a system may outweigh its intended benefits. Central to Ametorgoh’s critique are the substantial risks related to privacy and data security. He highlighted that the process of verifying national identity cards across various third-party adult platforms poses a severe risk of identity theft and potential data breaches. Furthermore, the technology consultant argued that the technological infrastructure required to reliably authenticate IDs online is complex and difficult to manage effectively. Instead of a cumbersome verification process, Ametorgoh suggested that the government should consider outright bans on explicit content as a simpler and more robust solution to protect minors from harmful materials online. The ongoing debate highlights a critical tension between digital privacy and the urgent need to safeguard children in the digital space. As the Ministry for Communications explores various safeguarding measures, the feedback from tech experts like Ametorgoh underscores the need for a solution that is both practical and secure for all users. Whether the government proceeds with the ID verification model or pivots toward the total blockages proposed by critics, the outcome will set a significant precedent for digital governance, online censorship, and personal privacy in Ghana.

Lands Commission Launches Digital ELIS and Client Service Access Unit in Volta Region
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Lands Commission Launches Digital ELIS and Client Service Access Unit in Volta Region

The Volta Regional Office of the Lands Commission has officially entered a new era of digital land administration with the launch of a modern Client Service Access Unit (CSAU) and the deployment of the Enterprise Land Information System (ELIS). This milestone marks a significant step in the Commission's nationwide digital transformation agenda, aimed at streamlining operations and restoring public trust in land management within the region. By transitioning from traditional paper-based methods to a robust digital framework, the Commission seeks to eliminate bottlenecks that have historically plagued land transactions and delayed service delivery. The deployment of the Enterprise Land Information System (ELIS) is expected to revolutionize records management and drastically reduce the turnaround time for accessing land administration services. Complementing this technology is the new Client Service Access Unit, which will function as the primary interface between the public and the Commission. This unit is designed to provide a professional, one-stop environment for clients, ensuring that inquiries and applications are processed efficiently without the need for multiple points of contact, which often invited middleman interference and increased the risk of corruption. Speaking at the launch, Dr. Wordsworth Odame-Larbi, the National Chairman of the Lands Commission, highlighted the critical role of human agency in the success of these digital tools. While the technology is designed to enhance transparency and service delivery, Dr. Odame-Larbi cautioned staff that the system's effectiveness relies heavily on the integrity of data entry. He urged employees to commit to high levels of accuracy, warning that errors in the digital environment can become permanent fixtures in official records if not handled with care. This digital shift in the Volta Region aligns with the broader national objective to modernize Ghana's land sector, a move seen as vital for economic development and conflict reduction. As the Lands Commission continues its rollout of ELIS across various regions, the focus remains on building public confidence through improved accountability. For the people of the Volta Region, these updates promise a more transparent, faster, and reliable process for securing land titles and conducting searches, ultimately fostering a more secure environment for real estate investment and development.

Telecel Ghana Calls for Urgent Public Action to Combat Persistent Fibre Cuts and Infrastructure Theft
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Telecel Ghana Calls for Urgent Public Action to Combat Persistent Fibre Cuts and Infrastructure Theft

Telecel Ghana has issued a clarion call for public cooperation to address the escalating problem of fibre optic cable cuts and infrastructure theft, which continue to undermine network reliability across the country. Speaking on the matter, the telecommunications giant revealed that these disruptions, often caused by a combination of road construction activities and deliberate vandalism, are resulting in significant daily financial losses and frequent service interruptions for customers. Mr. Komla Buami, Telecel Ghana’s Director of External Affairs, identified road construction projects as a primary driver of accidental fibre damage. However, the more sinister threat remains the targeted theft and vandalism of critical infrastructure. The company reports dealing with multiple fibre cuts every day, a situation that necessitates constant, costly repairs and diverts resources from expanding and improving network coverage. The impact is felt most acutely by subscribers who face dropped calls and unstable internet connectivity. In response to these challenges, Telecel is intensifying its security measures and strengthening its partnership with relevant government ministries to protect its assets. Beyond technical solutions, the company is prioritizing grassroots involvement through initiatives like Ashanti Week in Kumasi. This program aims to foster a sense of community ownership over local telecommunications infrastructure while simultaneously increasing investments to boost service quality within the Ashanti Region. The recurring nature of these infrastructure attacks highlights a broader challenge within Ghana’s digital landscape, where the push for a robust digital economy is being hampered by physical sabotage. Telecel’s plea underscores that while the company is taking steps to secure its network, the long-term solution lies in a collective effort involving law enforcement, construction firms, and the general public to safeguard the vital communication lines that power modern life.

Dr. Chris Kpodar Urges Ghanaians to Use Mobile Phones as Defense Against Counterfeit Goods in New National Campaign
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Dr. Chris Kpodar Urges Ghanaians to Use Mobile Phones as Defense Against Counterfeit Goods in New National Campaign

Dr. Chris Kpodar, the Executive Chairman of Solomon Investment Limited, has called on Ghanaian consumers to leverage their mobile phones as critical defense tools against the proliferation of counterfeit products. Speaking in support of the ‘VERIFY BEFORE YOU BUY’ campaign—an initiative spearheaded by CDA CONSULT—Dr. Kpodar emphasized that the digital tools already in the hands of citizens are the most effective weapons in identifying fake goods before money changes hands. The campaign seeks to empower consumers to take personal responsibility for their safety and financial security by utilizing modern technology to authenticate products at the point of sale. Central to this initiative is the use of features such as QR codes and barcodes, which are increasingly common on legitimate product packaging. Dr. Kpodar explained that these digital identifiers allow for instant verification of a product's origin and legitimacy through a quick scan. He warned consumers to remain vigilant for signs of tampered packaging or missing security features, noting that technology significantly lowers the barrier for everyday citizens to participate in anti-counterfeiting efforts. By verifying products before purchase, consumers can effectively reduce the demand for counterfeit goods, forcing illicit manufacturers out of the market. The ‘VERIFY BEFORE YOU BUY’ campaign is designed as a massive nationwide outreach program. According to Mr. Francis Ameyibor, the Executive Director of CDA CONSULT, the initiative will span two years and cover 16 regional capitals and 120 district capitals across Ghana. The campaign is built on four core pillars: education, awareness, action, and protection. Through a series of workshops and public engagements, the team aims to create a robust network of informed consumers and retailers who are equipped to spot and report sub-standard products, thereby strengthening the national trade environment. Beyond individual consumer protection, the campaign serves as a call to action for retailers to ensure the integrity of their supply chains. The organizers stressed that the fight against counterfeit goods requires a collective effort from both the buying public and the business community. As the digital landscape in Ghana continues to evolve, the integration of mobile technology into consumer rights advocacy represents a significant step forward in safeguarding public health and supporting legitimate industries. The ongoing workshops are expected to foster a culture of vigilance that will endure well beyond the two-year duration of the campaign.

Anthropic Proposes Global Pause on AI Development to Mitigate Risks of Autonomous Systems
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Anthropic Proposes Global Pause on AI Development to Mitigate Risks of Autonomous Systems

Anthropic, a leading San Francisco-based artificial intelligence firm, has called for a coordinated global pause in the development of advanced AI systems, citing concerns that technology is evolving faster than human oversight can manage. The company argues that without a unified international strategy, the race to build more powerful models could lead to systems that escape human control. This proposal highlights the urgent need for societal and regulatory frameworks to keep pace with rapid technological strides, ensuring that safety is prioritized over competitive speed. The company has drawn a significant parallel between AI safety and nuclear arms control, though it acknowledges the unique challenges of the digital age. Unlike nuclear technology, which relies on physical materials and massive infrastructure, AI development is largely discreet and harder to monitor through traditional means. Anthropic warns that the lack of visibility into private and state-sponsored research makes coordination difficult but essential. The firm emphasizes that countries like the United States and China must collaborate to avoid a scenario where safety protocols are compromised in the pursuit of geopolitical or commercial dominance. Despite pushback from industry competitors and government officials who fear such a slowdown could stifle innovation or result in a loss of strategic advantage, Anthropic is actively seeking to collaborate with global stakeholders. The company plans to help develop a coordination system that monitors development while addressing the specific risks of AI self-improvement. By establishing international norms now, Anthropic believes the global community can prevent the catastrophic consequences of unregulated, highly autonomous technology that could potentially outmaneuver existing human safeguards.