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.

Samukele Mkhize
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Binance Intensifies Cybersecurity Initiatives in Africa Following $10.5 Billion Fraud Interception

In observance of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, cryptocurrency exchange Binance has launched a comprehensive security drive across Africa, urging users to adopt rigorous protective measures against the rising tide of online scams. The initiative comes as the exchange reports a significant milestone in its security operations, successfully intercepting approximately $10.53 billion in potential fraud between 2025 and early 2026. This effort underscores the critical importance of digital safety as blockchain adoption continues to expand across the continent, necessitating more robust defenses against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. To maintain these security standards, Binance has disclosed a substantial financial commitment, investing approximately $300 million annually into compliance and user protection measures. This investment supports a dedicated workforce of 1,500 compliance staff who are tasked with monitoring global transactions and neutralizing threats in real-time. By allocating significant resources to compliance, the exchange aims to build a more secure infrastructure for African investors who are often targeted by cross-border phishing and investment scams. Educational outreach serves as a cornerstone of this safety campaign, highlighted by the "Know Your Scam" initiative and a series of technical training workshops. Binance reports that it has already provided free cryptocurrency education to more than 400,000 individuals, focusing on practical skills such as identifying fraudulent schemes and securing digital wallets. These programs are designed to bridge the knowledge gap in emerging markets, empowering users to recognize red flags before they fall victim to malicious actors. As the digital economy evolves under the administration of President John Mahama, the focus on cybersecurity remains a top priority for both financial institutions and technology providers. Binance's ongoing strategy involves deepening security partnerships and fostering a culture of transparency within the African crypto ecosystem. Moving forward, the exchange intends to continue its proactive approach to user education and system monitoring to ensure that the continent's digital financial future remains resilient and secure.

Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako’s Book on Ghana’s Cybersecurity Featured at 15th UN Congress in Abu Dhabi
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Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako’s Book on Ghana’s Cybersecurity Featured at 15th UN Congress in Abu Dhabi

Ghana’s significant strides in digital security have gained international recognition at the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. A seminal book by Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, titled "The Republic: A Professional Journey, Ghana’s Cybersecurity and the Making of a Role Model Country," was selected for exhibition during the high-profile event held in Abu Dhabi from September 26 to October 1, 2026. Recommended by the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ), the publication highlights Ghana's successful evolution into a regional leader in cybersecurity and its commitment to international standards of digital safety. Published in November 2025, the book provides a comprehensive reflection on the development of Ghana’s cybersecurity framework and the strategic collaborations that underpinned its growth. During the congress, the work was featured among a select group of publications aimed at inspiring global cooperation toward building just and secure societies. Dr. Antwi-Boasiako emphasized that the book represents a documentation of the collective achievements of various stakeholders and individuals who have contributed to the nation’s digital defenses, framing Ghana's journey as a blueprint for other nations seeking to secure their digital frontiers. The recognition of this work carries long-term implications for Ghana’s international standing in the technology and security sectors. Following the conclusion of the congress, a copy of the book will be permanently preserved in the CCPCJ’s historical collections and housed in a library in Abu Dhabi for future reference. This preservation ensures that the insights from Ghana’s cybersecurity journey will remain accessible to global policymakers and security experts, solidifying the country’s reputation as a role model for developing nations in the realm of crime prevention and digital justice.

A close-up photograph of a white corporate sign featuring the blue Meta infinity logo and the company name in dark blue text. The rectangular sign is mounted on the exterior of a modern building with light-colored masonry.
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UK Regulator Ofcom Launches Investigation into Meta’s Instagram Instants Over Child Safety Risks

Britain’s communications regulator, Ofcom, has officially launched an investigation into Meta, the parent company of Instagram, to determine if the social media giant failed to properly assess risks before launching its "Instagram Instants" feature. The probe centers on whether Meta breached the UK’s stringent Online Safety Act by neglecting to conduct mandatory risk assessments related to illegal content and child safety prior to the feature's release in May. The Instants feature, which allows content to disappear immediately after it has been viewed, has raised significant alarms among regulators concerned that ephemeral messaging could be exploited for harmful or illicit activities. Ofcom has emphasized that under current UK law, technology platforms are required to integrate safety measures and conduct thorough impact evaluations at the design stage of any significant platform change, rather than attempting to address vulnerabilities after a product is already in the hands of the public. The regulator’s director highlighted that these assessments are not optional and are vital for protecting vulnerable users, particularly children, from exposure to dangerous material. The investigation will scrutinize Meta’s internal processes to verify if the company accurately identified and mitigated potential harms associated with the disappearing nature of the content. In response to the investigation, Meta has maintained that it takes its regulatory obligations seriously and asserts that it did perform a comprehensive risk analysis before deploying the feature. The company stated that it has already implemented specific tools and features designed to protect its user base but expressed a willingness to cooperate fully with Ofcom’s inquiries. However, the relationship remains complex, as Meta is simultaneously engaged in legal challenges against Ofcom regarding the specific implementation and interpretation of the Online Safety Act, highlighting a broader tension between big tech and national regulators. The outcome of this investigation could have far-reaching implications for how social media companies operate within the United Kingdom. If found in breach of the law, Meta could face substantial fines or be forced to modify the Instagram Instants feature to align with safety standards. This case serves as a critical early test of the UK’s ability to enforce the Online Safety Act, signaling to other tech firms that the era of "move fast and break things" must now give way to a "safety-by-design" approach in the British market.

ASOS Investigates "Brazen" Cybersecurity Breach After App Users Receive Hacker Notifications
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ASOS Investigates "Brazen" Cybersecurity Breach After App Users Receive Hacker Notifications

Online fashion giant ASOS has launched an investigation into a security breach after thousands of customers received alarming unauthorized push notifications through the company's mobile application. On Tuesday morning, app users across multiple countries were startled by messages explicitly stating "ASOS HACKED." The company quickly acknowledged the incident, attributing the breach to unauthorized activity involving third-party platforms rather than a direct compromise of its core infrastructure. While the incident caused widespread confusion and concern, ASOS has sought to reassure its global customer base. Preliminary assessments by the company suggest that while some "basic personal information" may have been accessed, critical sensitive data—including passwords and payment information—is believed to remain secure. Despite the breach, both the ASOS website and mobile app remain fully operational, and the company has encouraged customers to continue shopping while the investigation proceeds. Cybersecurity experts have described the attack as an unusually brazen attempt at extortion. Unlike typical data breaches where hackers operate quietly to extract data for sale, this incident involved a direct and public confrontation with the company's clientele. The market reacted swiftly to the news, with ASOS shares experiencing a notable decline, falling by approximately 10% on the London Stock Exchange following the reports. ASOS is currently working alongside specialized cybersecurity consultants and has alerted the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the London Stock Exchange. Although the company is still assessing the full extent of the breach to determine if formal notification to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) is required, it has advised users to remain vigilant. Security analysts recommend that users refrain from interacting with the suspicious notifications and consider updating their account passwords as a standard safety precaution.

CSA opens Cyber Security Awareness Month with call for stronger collaboration
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CSA Director-General Divine Selase Agbeti Launches 2026 National Cyber Security Awareness Month to Bolster Digital Finance Security

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) of Ghana has officially launched the 2026 National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) at the University of Ghana, marking the fifth anniversary of the Authority’s establishment. Under the theme "Securing Ghana’s Digital Finance Ecosystem: Building Trust Through Collaboration and Cyber Resilience," the month-long initiative aims to unify stakeholders against the growing sophistication of cyber threats. Director-General Mr. Divine Selase Agbeti opened the event with a strong appeal for a coordinated defense strategy, emphasizing that the stability of Ghana's digital economy depends on the collective vigilance of both public and private sectors. Throughout his address, Mr. Agbeti underscored that cybersecurity must no longer be viewed merely as a technical issue but as a critical business risk with profound national security implications. He highlighted the emergence of new challenges posed by artificial intelligence, which cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging to orchestrate complex attacks. To counter these threats, the Director-General urged financial institutions, fintech firms, and telecommunications providers to enhance their cooperation. A central pillar of this strategy includes the establishment of a digital fraud monitoring system and the real-time sharing of actionable threat intelligence to stay ahead of malicious actors. The urgency of this year’s campaign is underscored by data showing that online fraud incidents accounted for a significant portion of reported cybersecurity issues in 2026. The CSA noted that the digital finance landscape is particularly vulnerable, requiring comprehensive cooperation to maintain public confidence in electronic transactions. Beyond corporate collaboration, the Authority is focusing on strengthening the capabilities of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cybercrime more effectively, ensuring that the legal system can keep pace with technological advancements. As NCSAM 2026 progresses, the CSA will engage in nationwide activities designed to promote safer digital practices among the general public. Mr. Agbeti called on all citizens to remain vigilant in safeguarding their personal information, noting that individual awareness is the first line of defense. By fostering a culture of cyber resilience, the Authority seeks to secure Ghana’s digital transformation and ensure that the financial ecosystem remains a trusted space for economic growth and innovation.

MTN Ghana to Expand 5G Network Following $202 Million Spectrum Award from NCA
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MTN Ghana to Expand 5G Network Following $202 Million Spectrum Award from NCA

MTN Ghana is set to significantly enhance its network infrastructure following the acquisition of a newly awarded 5G spectrum valued at US$202 million. The National Communications Authority (NCA) granted the telecommunications giant access to the 700 MHz and 3 GHz bands, marking a pivotal step in the country's transition toward widespread 5G and high-speed mobile broadband services. These licenses, which are valid for 15 years, represent a major capital commitment by MTN to lead Ghana's digital transformation and support the government's digitalization agenda. The deployment of these specific frequency bands is designed to address the surging demand for data from both residential and commercial sectors. The 700 MHz band is particularly known for its superior indoor coverage and wide-area reach, while the 3 GHz band provides the high capacity needed for ultra-fast 5G speeds. By integrating these assets, MTN Ghana aims to improve overall service quality, reduce latency, and provide more robust home and mobile connectivity solutions for its millions of subscribers as data traffic continues to rise. Financially, the company has already integrated the $202 million obligation into its long-term fiscal outlook. As the licensing process concludes, MTN is finalizing its payment schedules and technical rollout plans. This investment is expected to catalyze innovation in the local tech ecosystem, enabling new use cases in automation, remote work, and high-definition streaming. The company has pledged to keep the market and the public updated as the infrastructure deployment progresses and network performance improvements become visible across the country.

Four men are posed for a photo in an office setting, with the two younger men in the center holding a framed certificate. The group consists of two students and two older officials, likely from KNUST, celebrating a win in a technology competition.
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KNUST Student Team "Husker AI" Wins 2026 Pan African AI Summit Hackathon for Cocoa Waste Innovation

A student-led team from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has emerged victorious at the 2026 Pan African AI Summit Hack-AI-Thon. The team, known as Husker AI, claimed the top prize for their innovative artificial intelligence solution designed to transform discarded cocoa pod husks into a viable source of income for Ghanaian farmers. Outperforming a competitive field of over 200 applicants from across the continent, the group secured a $1,000 cash prize and exclusive mentorship opportunities to further develop their technology during the event held on September 22–23, 2026. The winning project addresses a long-standing challenge in the cocoa industry: the management of agricultural waste. Husker AI's platform utilizes AI to assess the quality and potential market value of cocoa husks, which are typically discarded after the beans are harvested. By connecting smallholder farmers with industrial buyers who can repurpose these husks into value-added products, the team aims to create a circular economy within the agricultural sector. The project was developed by a five-member team comprising Frank Agyare, Caleb Antwi, Wilhelmina Adjah, Elijah Ayinomba, and Joseph Amankwaah. The Hack-AI-Thon served as a centerpiece of the broader AI & Innovation Summit, which sought to highlight groundbreaking technological advancements in Africa. The competition's rigorous selection process narrowed down hundreds of entries to just five finalists, who presented their prototypes to a panel of industry experts. The judges praised Husker AI for its practical application and its focus on accessibility for smallholder farmers, ensuring that the benefits of high-tech innovation can reach the grassroots level of Ghana's economy. Looking ahead, the Husker AI team intends to use their prize money and mentorship to transition their concept into a real-world application. As Ghana remains one of the world's leading cocoa producers, the potential impact of such technology is significant, offering a path to diversify farmer income and reduce environmental waste. This victory underscores the growing role of Ghanaian youth and academic institutions in driving technological solutions for local industrial challenges, positioning AI as a critical tool for national economic development.

How ‘Lagos Life’ is capturing young Nigerians online
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Nigerian Developer Shalom Rayhamen’s "Lagos Life" Simulation Game Surpasses 670,000 Players

Nigerian developer Shalom Rayhamen has achieved significant success with the launch of "Lagos Life," a web-based simulation game that has rapidly captured the attention of young Nigerians. Since its debut in early October 2026, the game has attracted more than 670,000 players, offering a virtual window into the vibrant and often chaotic lifestyle of Nigeria’s most populous city. By digitizing the unique cultural nuances and daily "hustle" associated with Lagos, the game has become a digital hub for a generation seeking relatable entertainment that reflects their lived reality. The simulation provides an immersive experience where players must navigate various aspects of life in the city, including finding work, managing finances, and socializing. A key mechanic of the game is its realistic financial stratification; players begin their journey in either a wealthy or poor financial scenario, a choice that fundamentally dictates their path and the challenges they face within the virtual ecosystem. To further ground the experience in authenticity, Rayhamen integrated music from local artists, turning everyday activities like commuting or working into an engaging celebration of Nigerian pop culture. Despite its rapid rise, "Lagos Life" has not been without its technical hurdles. The developer recently had to address issues involving virtual currency exploitation, where some users found ways to manipulate the economy for unfair advantages. Rayhamen has been active in implementing fixes to ensure a balanced and fair environment for all players, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the game's integrity as it grows. This commitment to stability is crucial as the game evolves from a niche project into a significant cultural platform for digital interaction. As "Lagos Life" continues to expand its user base, it serves as a testament to the growing potential of the African gaming industry. By focusing on hyper-local content rather than following generic global gaming tropes, Rayhamen has demonstrated that there is a massive, underserved market for stories that resonate with the African experience. The success of the game suggests a future where more African developers use technology to archive and celebrate their urban cultures, creating a digital legacy that is both entertaining and socially relevant for the continent.

A group of eight individuals, including men and women in formal and traditional attire, pose for a photograph in an office setting. They are standing against a vertical wood-paneled wall that features a portrait of President John Dramani Mahama.
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Minister Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings Positions Ghana as Africa’s Emerging Space Science and Technology Hub

Ghana is intensifying its efforts to establish itself as a premier hub for space science and technology in Africa, leveraging its strategic geographic location and long-standing political stability. The Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has articulated a comprehensive national space agenda designed to integrate satellite data into the country’s developmental framework. This vision prioritizes the use of advanced orbital technology to address critical domestic challenges, including chronic flooding, the impacts of climate change, and the complexities of rapid urban development. Central to this technological push is the deployment of satellite imagery, drones, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance environmental monitoring and enforcement. One of the most significant applications of these tools will be the surveillance of illegal mining activities—commonly known as galamsey—which have caused extensive damage to Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves. By utilizing real-time data and high-resolution imaging, the government aims to create a more robust response system to ecological threats, ensuring more effective management of natural resources and public infrastructure. Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings has emphasized that the success of this ambitious program depends on the cultivation of a highly skilled local workforce. To realize a sustainable national space ecosystem, the Ministry is advocating for deep collaboration between the government, academic research institutions, and the private sector. This tripartite partnership is expected to drive innovation in satellite technology and data analytics, fostering a new generation of Ghanaian scientists and engineers capable of leading the continent’s space race. Beyond environmental protection, the proposed space agenda holds transformative potential for other sectors such as agriculture and disaster management. By refining the collection and analysis of satellite data, Ghana hopes to improve crop yields through precision farming and enhance its preparedness for natural disasters. As the nation aligns its policy frameworks with international space standards, these initiatives reflect a broader commitment to using frontier technologies to secure a more resilient and technologically advanced future for all Ghanaians.

Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako's book exhibited at UN Congress in Abu Dhabi
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Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako’s Book on Ghana’s Cybersecurity Journey Showcased at 15th UN Congress in Abu Dhabi

Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako’s seminal work on the evolution of Ghana’s digital defenses has gained significant international recognition at the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. Held in Abu Dhabi from September 26 to October 1, 2026, the congress featured an exhibition of the book titled *The Republic: A Professional Journey, Ghana’s Cybersecurity and the Making of a Role Model Country*. The selection of this text by the UN Commission underscores Ghana's rising profile as a leader in cybersecurity policy and implementation within the West African sub-region and the global stage. Published in November 2025, the book provides a comprehensive chronicle of the strategic initiatives and collaborative frameworks that have shaped Ghana's cybersecurity landscape. Dr. Antwi-Boasiako, a pivotal figure in the nation's digital security architecture, uses the narrative to document the contributions of various key actors and institutions. Rather than focusing solely on individual achievements, the work highlights the institutional synergy required to elevate a developing nation to the status of a "role model" in the complex and rapidly evolving field of cyber governance. The exhibition in Abu Dhabi placed the book alongside other notable global works designed to inspire international cooperation toward creating more just and secure societies. Dr. Antwi-Boasiako emphasized that the inclusion of his work at such a high-profile UN event is a testament to the collective efforts of the Ghanaian cybersecurity community. He noted that the book serves as both a historical record and a roadmap for future initiatives, aiming to inspire other nations to adopt similar rigorous standards in crime prevention and criminal justice within the digital realm. Following the conclusion of the 15th UN Congress, the book will attain a permanent legacy in the Middle East. It has been designated to be housed in a library in Abu Dhabi as part of the UN Commission’s historical collections for future reference. This ensures that the insights and lessons from Ghana’s cybersecurity journey will remain accessible to global policymakers, researchers, and practitioners, further solidifying the country's influence on international digital security discourse.

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Pentagon Formally Severs Ties with Anthropic AI Following National Security and Ethics Clash

The United States Department of Defense has officially terminated its use of Anthropic’s artificial intelligence tools, marking a significant escalation in a months-long dispute over national security and product safety. The decision follows a February 2025 designation by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who labeled the AI firm a "supply chain risk." While the formal announcement was made this week, the move highlights a deep-seated friction between military requirements for unfiltered AI capabilities and the ethical guardrails championed by Silicon Valley startups. Despite the early designation by Secretary Hegseth, the transition away from Anthropic’s flagship model, Claude, proved technically difficult for the military. Claude was deeply integrated into the Pentagon’s Maven Smart System, a critical data platform used for intelligence gathering and operational analysis. Reports indicate that military personnel continued using the tool as recently as last week, even as officials worked to phase it out. The primary point of contention reportedly involved the Pentagon’s request for Anthropic to remove specific safety guardrails from its models—a demand the company refused, citing ethical concerns and its commitment to rigorous safety protocols. Anthropic has not taken the blacklisting lightly, launching legal challenges against the Department of Defense. The company has described the Pentagon’s actions as "unprecedented and unlawful," arguing that the "supply chain risk" label is unfounded and unfairly targets their business model. As the relationship soured, the Pentagon began pivoting toward other major tech players to fill the gap, reportedly seeking new contracts with Google, Elon Musk’s xAI, and OpenAI to sustain its AI-driven intelligence operations and strategy. The situation remains fluid as political dynamics in Washington shift following recent engagements between the tech sector and the executive branch. While the Pentagon has taken a hardline stance, Anthropic’s leadership has recently engaged in high-level discussions with the Trump administration. These meetings suggest a potential shift in relations at the White House level, despite the current military ban. The final outcome of this standoff will likely set a major precedent for how the U.S. government balances the need for rapid military innovation with the safety and ethical standards of private AI developers.

Four professionally dressed men are posed side-by-side against a solid blue background that features the word 'ignite' and an upward arrow logo in the top left corner. The group includes diverse individuals in business attire, including a Black man in a green blazer, suggesting a professional or technology-themed conference setting.
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John Healy Urges African Youth to Embrace AI-Driven Solopreneurship for Economic Transformation

John Healy, the Head of Development and Strategy at Brainify, has issued a call for African nations to prioritize equipping the youth with skills for solopreneurship in response to the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Speaking during a webinar organized by the e-commerce firm Ignite, Healy emphasized that the AI revolution is fundamentally changing the global job market. He argued that young Africans must shift their focus from traditional employment toward technology-enabled income generation, leveraging AI to create independent economic opportunities and participate in the global freelance market. Healy highlighted a significant digital divide in current AI adoption rates, referencing data that shows 28.8% of the Global North utilizes AI compared to only 16.2% in the Global South. To address this disparity, he advocated for systemic improvements in internet access, more affordable technology, and the implementation of structured educational platforms. According to Healy, the goal is to empower the next generation to exploit technology for self-sustained income, ensuring that the continent is not left behind as automated systems and intelligent software redefine productivity. As part of the effort to bridge this gap, Healy introduced Brainify’s AI-powered learning ecosystem, which is designed to drive rapid technological transformation across the continent. The platform, available in 15 languages, aims to provide accessible and relevant educational resources to help users master AI tools. By lowering the barrier to entry for high-level technical skills, such initiatives seek to transform Africa’s large youth population into a competitive workforce capable of navigating the complexities of the modern digital economy. Supporting this vision, Nathan Kwabena Adisi from Ignite discussed the company's commitment to enhancing regulatory compliance and building public trust as it expands across Sub-Saharan Africa. Since its inception in 2026, Ignite has focused on creating a robust e-commerce environment that facilitates digital entrepreneurship. The combined efforts of educational platforms like Brainify and market aggregators like Ignite suggest a growing infrastructure aimed at turning technological disruption into a sustainable economic engine for Africa.