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.

Cyber Security Authority warns of AI-powered fraud operations
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Cyber Security Authority warns of AI-powered fraud operations

Ghana's Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has raised an alarm over the rising use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools by cybercriminals to execute sophisticated fraud and online scams. The authority's warning highlights a shift in the digital threat landscape, where criminals are increasingly leveraging automated technologies to bypass security measures and target unsuspecting victims. This development has prompted calls for intensified capacity-building within Ghana's security agencies to effectively counter these evolving tactics. Speaking on JoyNews, Benjamin Madro Avornyotse, the Public Relations Officer for the CSA, emphasized that cybercrime remains a global challenge rather than a localized issue. To address this, the CSA is actively collaborating with international partners, including the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and local security agencies. These joint efforts recently culminated in a major operation that dismantled a transnational scam network operating within Ghana, resulting in the arrest of over 130 individuals and the identification of financial losses totaling approximately US$10 million. Avornyotse noted that while the CSA has made significant progress since its formal establishment in 2020, the integration of AI into criminal operations requires security personnel to constantly enhance their technical skill sets. The authority's Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) continues to play a vital role in managing incidents and providing support for victims of online fraud. The official stressed that the state is committed to tackling cybercrime head-on, ensuring that the country does not become a hub for international criminal activities. To keep pace with the sophistication of AI-driven crime, the CSA is advocating for continuous investment in both infrastructure and human resource development. By strengthening the technical expertise of law enforcement and maintaining strong international partnerships, the authority aims to create a more resilient digital environment. Officials believe that staying ahead of the technological curve is the only viable way to protect the integrity of Ghana's digital economy against modern cyber threats.

Brad Smith, the President of Microsoft, is pictured in a formal interview setting wearing a dark suit and a patterned purple tie. He appears to be listening or speaking during a discussion, with a lapel microphone visible on his jacket and green foliage in the background.
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Brad Smith urges mandatory safety rules for global AI regulation

Microsoft President Brad Smith has called for the urgent implementation of global artificial intelligence (AI) regulations, warning that the technology is currently less regulated than common household items. Speaking on the necessity of oversight, Smith highlighted that products like milk and washing machines are subject to stricter safety standards than AI systems. He argued that the rapid advancement of the technology requires a robust legal framework to protect the public and ensure accountability within the tech industry. Smith advocated for several specific mandatory safety measures to be integrated into AI development. These include the implementation of emergency shutdown mechanisms, which would allow operators to disable systems if they begin to malfunction or pose a threat. Additionally, he called for mandatory notifications for victims in the event of an AI system breach. Smith also suggested that new AI technologies should undergo independent evaluations before being deployed, ensuring that safety claims are verified by third parties rather than just the developers themselves. The call for government intervention contrasts with the approach favored by U.S. political figures like Donald Trump, who have previously leaned toward self-regulation to maintain the competitive edge of American firms. While some voluntary safety measures have been initiated among major tech companies, Smith insisted that self-regulation alone is insufficient to mitigate the inherent risks of AI. He further noted the potential for the United Kingdom to take a leading role in establishing international safety standards, emphasizing that the global nature of the technology requires a coordinated response across borders.

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Cabinet approves creation of Ghana Space Agency to regulate space technology

The Ghanaian Cabinet has officially approved the establishment of the Ghana Space Agency, marking a significant step toward modernizing the nation's technological infrastructure and data management. Announced by the Minister, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, during a presentation of her 100-day agenda report, the new agency is designed to serve as a central national body for the coordination and regulation of space technologies. This development marks a transition from the existing Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute (GSSTI) into a more robust, independent authority focused on advancing Ghana's capabilities in the global space sector. A primary objective of the Ghana Space Agency is to reduce the country’s reliance on foreign satellite data, which currently informs many critical sectors. By developing homegrown satellite technology and data processing capacities, the agency aims to provide more tailored and cost-effective solutions for national challenges. The integration of space-derived data is expected to improve local agricultural practices through precise crop monitoring, enhance healthcare delivery via improved tele-health infrastructure, and bolster environmental monitoring efforts, particularly in tracking deforestation and illegal mining activities. The establishment of the agency also positions Ghana to better utilize available data for informed national decision-making and improved satellite capacity. Highlighting international successes, such as India’s investment in its space program, the initiative underscores that space technology is a vital tool for solving terrestrial problems rather than a distraction from them. As the agency moves from concept to operation, the focus will shift toward building the necessary infrastructure and securing the investment required to foster a self-sustaining ecosystem for satellite technology and space science research within the country.

Cyber Security Authority arrests 130 suspects in US$10m fraud crackdown
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Cyber Security Authority arrests 130 suspects in US$10m fraud crackdown

Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA), in a coordinated operation with international law enforcement agencies including the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), has successfully dismantled a major transnational scam syndicate operating within the country. The crackdown resulted in the arrest of more than 130 individuals suspected of involvement in diverse online fraud activities. Preliminary investigations by the authorities have identified financial losses totaling nearly US$10 million linked to the activities of this specific criminal network. Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse, Benjamin Madro Avornyotse, the Public Relations Officer for the CSA, highlighted that the enforcement action is part of a broader, more aggressive strategy to cleanse Ghana’s digital landscape. Avornyotse dismissed perceptions that Ghana is becoming a hub for cybercriminals, asserting instead that the nation is proactively tackling cybercrime head-on. The collaboration with the FBI emphasizes the transnational nature of these crimes, where perpetrators in one jurisdiction target victims across global borders, necessitating a unified international response. The scale of this operation serves as a warning to both local and international cybercrime actors. By identifying nearly US$10 million in losses, the investigation has uncovered the significant economic impact these scams have on victims worldwide. The arrest of over 130 people marks one of the most substantial enforcement actions in recent months, demonstrating the increasing technical and intelligence-sharing capabilities of Ghana’s security apparatus in tracking sophisticated digital threats. Moving forward, the Cyber Security Authority intends to deepen its engagement with local security agencies and international partners to prevent Ghana from being used as a base for illicit activities. The authority reiterated its commitment to protecting the integrity of Ghana’s digital space and maintaining public confidence in the country’s internet infrastructure. As legal proceedings against the suspects begin, the CSA continues to urge the public to remain vigilant against online fraud and report suspicious digital activities through official channels.

Ivor Campbell, CEO of Snedden Campbell
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Ivor Campbell warns against agentic AI use in healthcare without oversight

Healthcare analyst Ivor Campbell has cautioned that the rapid deployment of "agentic" artificial intelligence (AI) in the medical sector poses significant risks if implemented without robust human oversight. Drawing a parallel to the 1983 Petrov incident—where a human officer's intuition averted nuclear war after a system malfunction—Campbell argues that the current pace of AI development lacks the necessary regulatory frameworks to prevent catastrophic medical errors or misuse. He notes that while collaborations between tech giants like OpenAI and Microsoft drive innovation, they also underscore the need for a cautious approach to governance. Agentic AI systems, which have the capacity to act independently to achieve complex goals, are increasingly being integrated into healthcare systems to order diagnostic tests and formulate treatment plans. However, Campbell points out that this level of autonomy introduces the potential for error propagation on a massive scale. Beyond clinical mistakes, he highlights extreme risks such as the potential for AI-assisted bioterrorism if these powerful systems are compromised or improperly directed. The primary concern is not merely technological failure, but a growing culture where the complexity of AI leads users to place undue trust in its autonomous decisions. According to Campbell, a survey of healthcare leaders reveals an alarming trend: many organizations are deploying advanced AI systems without a full understanding of the underlying technology or adequate safety protocols in place. Many decision-makers appear to be underestimating the potential for catastrophic outcomes, focusing instead on efficiency gains. Campbell advocates for a proactive approach to governance, emphasizing that human operators must be trained and empowered to critically question AI outputs rather than accepting them as infallible, ensuring that human judgment remains the final safeguard in medical practice.

Danfoss software breach affects refrigeration at 500 French supermarkets
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Danfoss software breach affects refrigeration at 500 French supermarkets

A sophisticated cyber attack targeting software developed by the Danish firm Danfoss has compromised the refrigeration systems of more than 500 supermarkets across France. The breach, which hit major retail chains including Carrefour, Intermarché, and Coopérative U, caused industrial refrigerators to malfunction and heat up to temperatures as high as 50°C (122°F). This sudden failure of cooling infrastructure led to the immediate spoilage of vast quantities of fresh and frozen food, resulting in financial losses estimated in the millions of euros. The attack specifically focused on the digital management systems provided by Danfoss, which are used by retailers to remotely monitor and control temperature settings across their store networks. By gaining access to these controls, the attackers were able to manipulate the settings, effectively turning off cooling capabilities or reversing them to heat the storage units. Store managers reported a rapid deterioration of stock, forcing many locations to dispose of entire inventories of perishable goods to ensure consumer safety and prevent the sale of contaminated items. In response to the incident, French prosecutors have initiated a comprehensive national cyber-crime investigation to identify the perpetrators and determine the full extent of the breach. The attack has drawn sharp condemnation from European officials, who have highlighted the vulnerability of the food supply chain to digital interference. This incident underscores a growing concern regarding food security and the risks posed by cyber threats to critical civilian infrastructure, prompting calls for increased investment in cybersecurity measures for the retail and logistics sectors.

A media professional in a checkered blazer sits at a desk in a modern studio, posing with his hand on his chin. The workspace includes a laptop, a high-end DSLR camera, and a mug, while background screens display Ghanaian news elements and a prominent 'Ghana Media' logo. This setting reflects the modernization and digital shift of Ghanaian journalism.
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Daniel Jeddman scales GhanaMedia.net to serve Ghanaian diaspora

Daniel Jeddman, a digital publisher, is steering GhanaMedia.net toward a new era of global influence by targeting the Ghanaian diaspora. The platform, which has grown into a major player in the country's digital media landscape, is prioritizing multi-platform news distribution to bridge the information gap between home and Ghanaians abroad. This development highlights the innovative spirit within the digital media sector, leveraging the internet to maintain connections with global audiences.\n\nGhanaMedia.net currently boasts a significant digital footprint, including a Facebook following of over 670,000 users. Founded by Jeddman, the organization has expanded its operations to include GhanaNews.org, reinforcing its commitment to rapid and reliable news delivery. By utilizing various social media channels, the platform ensures that news is distributed across the globe almost instantly, catering to a generation of readers who rely heavily on internet-based sources.\n\nJeddman’s strategy focuses on harmonizing traditional journalism with modern technology to create a robust media institution. For the diaspora, timely news is essential for maintaining a connection to Ghana, and Jeddman aims to make GhanaMedia.net the primary link for these communities. This evolution reflects the broader digital transformation within Ghana’s media sector, where innovative digital-first strategies are increasingly augmenting traditional media models.\n\nAs the platform continues to evolve, its success underscores the power of social media in news dissemination. By focusing on both local relevance and global reach, Jeddman is positioning GhanaMedia.net to play a pivotal role in how Ghanaians worldwide consume information. The expansion signifies a shift toward more integrated, technology-driven media houses that are capable of engaging diverse audiences across multiple borders.

Sam Nartey George tasks KNUST to develop Twi AI language model
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Sam Nartey George tasks KNUST to develop Twi AI language model

The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has officially called upon the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to spearhead the development of indigenous Artificial Intelligence (AI) language models. During an address at the university, the Minister specifically tasked the institution with creating a Twi-based AI model to ensure that Ghana's technological future is rooted in its own linguistic heritage. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce the nation's reliance on foreign AI systems, which often lack the cultural and linguistic nuance required for the Ghanaian context. The Minister expressed significant concern regarding the potential extinction of indigenous languages if they are not integrated into modern technological advancements. He argued that foreign-built AI models are fundamentally unsuitable for capturing the specific idioms, proverbs, and tonal nuances of Ghanaian languages. By developing local models, Ghana can protect its cultural identity while providing more accessible tools for citizens who primarily speak local dialects. Sam Nartey George emphasized that this transition is necessary to prevent a situation where local languages are sidelined by global technology standards. Beyond linguistic preservation, the Minister highlighted the practical benefits of localized AI for key sectors such as agriculture. He noted that a Twi-speaking AI could provide critical information and support to Ghanaian farmers in their native tongue, bridging the digital divide that currently exists. To achieve this, the Minister advocated for a robust collaboration between academic institutions like KNUST and traditional authorities, who serve as custodians of the language and culture. This partnership is expected to ensure the accuracy and cultural relevance of the data used to train these new AI models. As Ghana moves toward establishing its own local-language AI infrastructure, the involvement of KNUST marks a significant step in aligning academic research with national digital goals. The Minister’s directive underscores the importance of technological sovereignty, ensuring that the benefits of the digital revolution are inclusive and representative of Ghana's diverse population. The successful development of a Twi model is envisioned as a blueprint for other local languages, setting a precedent for how African nations can reclaim their digital narratives in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Cyber Security Authority warns of increasing AI use by cybercriminals
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Cyber Security Authority warns of increasing AI use by cybercriminals

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued a warning regarding the rising trend of cybercriminals utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to execute sophisticated operations. This development presents new and complex challenges for Ghana’s law enforcement and security infrastructure, requiring a proactive shift in defensive strategies to protect the nation's digital borders. The authority noted that these technological advancements allow bad actors to automate and refine their tactics, making them increasingly difficult to identify and counteract. Benjamin Madro Avornyotse, the Public Relations Officer of the CSA, highlighted that the rapid evolution of AI technology has provided bad actors with tools that make their tactics significantly harder to detect. He emphasized that for security agencies to remain effective, there must be a concerted effort to enhance technical skills and invest in continuous capacity-building. This training is essential to keeping pace with the shifting landscape of digital threats that now leverage automated and intelligent systems to bypass traditional security measures and deceive unsuspecting victims. Since its formal establishment in 2020, the CSA has made significant strides in securing Ghana’s digital space and coordinating national responses to threats. However, the authority notes that the emergence of AI-driven crime necessitates a more robust and technologically advanced response. The CSA’s Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) continues to play a critical role in this mission, providing vital technical support for cybersecurity incidents and leading focused efforts to dismantle online scams and sophisticated fraud networks that target both individuals and corporate entities. As cybercrime tactics become more refined and automated, the CSA remains focused on fostering collaboration among various stakeholders to strengthen the nation’s overall cyber resilience. The authority’s warning serves as a strategic call to action for both the public and private sectors to prioritize cybersecurity awareness and invest in modern technical upgrades. Moving forward, the CSA aims to ensure that Ghana’s security agencies are not merely reactive but are instead equipped with the specialized knowledge and tools required to anticipate and mitigate the risks posed by AI-powered criminal activity.

Brad Smith, the President of Microsoft, is pictured in a formal interview setting wearing a dark suit and a patterned purple tie. He appears to be listening or speaking during a discussion, with a lapel microphone visible on his jacket and green foliage in the background.
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Brad Smith urges global AI regulations with emergency shutdown rules

Microsoft President Brad Smith has called for the establishment of comprehensive global regulations for artificial intelligence, warning that the technology currently operates with fewer safety standards than everyday household items. Speaking on the urgent necessity of oversight, Smith highlighted a stark disparity in current legal frameworks, noting that products such as milk and washing machines are subject to more rigorous safety requirements than advanced AI systems. He argued that the rapid pace of technological development necessitates a formal regulatory structure to protect the public and ensure ethical deployment. To address these concerns, Smith recommended several critical safety measures, including the implementation of mandatory breach notifications to inform victims if their data is compromised by AI systems. Most notably, he advocated for the creation of emergency shutdown mechanisms—effectively a digital "kill switch"—that would allow authorities to disable AI systems if they begin to pose a significant risk or behave unpredictably. Smith also suggested that new AI technologies should undergo independent evaluations by third-party experts before being released to the general public. The executive's position marks a significant departure from the self-regulatory approach favored by figures such as Donald Trump, who has argued that heavy regulation could stifle innovation and weaken the competitive edge of American tech firms. While some voluntary safety measures have been adopted by major technology companies in the United States, Smith maintained that these efforts are insufficient. He emphasized that robust, legally binding regulations are paramount to mitigate the long-term risks associated with the technology while still fostering an environment where innovation can thrive. Looking toward international cooperation, Smith identified the United Kingdom as a nation with the potential to lead the global community in establishing AI safety standards. He noted that a coordinated international effort is required to manage a technology that transcends national borders. By harmonizing global standards and emphasizing transparency, Smith believes the international community can ensure that artificial intelligence remains a tool for human progress rather than a source of unmanaged risk.

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Cabinet approves establishment of Ghana Space Agency

The Ghanaian Cabinet has officially approved the establishment of the Ghana Space Agency to oversee and regulate the country's space technology sector. The announcement was made by the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, as part of her 100-day agenda report. This new national body is designed to centralize the coordination of space-related activities, marking a strategic shift in Ghana's scientific and technological landscape. The agency will facilitate the transformation of the existing Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute (GSSTI) into a comprehensive national regulatory body. A primary objective of this transition is to reduce Ghana's current dependence on foreign satellite infrastructure. By establishing its own regulatory framework and enhancing domestic satellite capacity, the government aims to gain greater autonomy over the data and technologies that are increasingly vital to modern governance and economic activity. Beyond regulation, the Ghana Space Agency is expected to play a critical role in addressing pressing national challenges in sectors such as agriculture, health, and environmental monitoring. The government intends to utilize satellite data to improve decision-making processes, particularly in tracking environmental degradation and optimizing land use. Advocates for the agency highlight that space technology is no longer a luxury but a necessary tool for solving local problems, citing India's successful space program as a model for how such investments can yield significant socio-economic returns. As the agency begins its formal operations, it will focus on building the necessary infrastructure and human resource capacity to sustain a long-term space program. This initiative is seen as a move to position Ghana as a regional leader in space science within West Africa. The next steps involve the administrative transition of GSSTI assets and personnel into the new agency, alongside the development of a robust regulatory environment for both public and private stakeholders in the space sector.

Jacqueline Ansomah Yeboah wins UK emerging technologies fellowship
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Jacqueline Ansomah Yeboah wins UK emerging technologies fellowship

Jacqueline Ansomah Yeboah, a prominent journalist with JoyNews, has been awarded the UK Media Excellence for Emerging Technologies (MEET) Fellowship after a highly competitive selection process. Chosen from a pool of more than 500 applicants, Yeboah will participate in a prestigious residential programme that brings together media professionals to study the implications of rapid technological shifts. The initiative is designed to enhance the ability of journalists to provide evidence-led reporting on complex subjects such as artificial intelligence and other digital advancements. As part of the fellowship, Yeboah is scheduled to participate in a residential programme involving Imperial College London from October 11-17, 2026. Her research project will focus specifically on the Ghanaian education sector, investigating the impact and equitable distribution of AI-powered tools within the nation’s Senior High School (SHS) system. This investigation aims to determine how effectively these tools are being integrated into the curriculum and whether their benefits are reaching students across different regions and socio-economic backgrounds. The investigation comes at a critical time as Ghana increasingly looks toward digital solutions to modernize its classrooms. Yeboah’s work will evaluate whether the introduction of artificial intelligence in schools is bridging the educational gap or potentially creating new disparities. By focusing on the practical application and fairness of these technologies, the project seeks to provide the public and policymakers with essential insights into the future of the country's educational landscape. This fellowship underscores the vital role of journalism in demystifying emerging technologies for the general public. Through her participation in this international programme, Yeboah aims to strengthen the quality of technology reporting in Ghana, ensuring that technological progress is scrutinized through a lens of social impact and transparency. Her selection highlights the growing recognition of Ghanaian media professionals on the global stage as they tackle some of the most pressing issues of the digital age.