Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama Cautions Against Sole Reliance on AI in Public Spending Decisions

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, has issued a strong advisory to public institutions regarding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the management of public resources. Speaking at a regional workshop in Accra on October 5, 2026, Dr. Asiama emphasized that while technology offers powerful tools for data analysis, AI must never replace human judgment or institutional accountability when it comes to public spending and the welfare of citizens. The workshop, organized by the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM), focused on enhancing project monitoring and evaluation through AI tools.

Dr. Asiama highlighted that the primary value of AI in the public sector lies in its ability to analyze vast datasets and proactively identify risks that might otherwise go unnoticed. However, he maintained that AI should serve as a complement to human expertise rather than a substitute. According to the Governor, the effectiveness of these technological tools is strictly contingent upon the quality of the data provided and the integrity of the models used. He urged public officials to ensure they possess the skills necessary to interpret AI-generated results responsibly, thereby ensuring that final decisions remain grounded in human oversight and ethical considerations.

During the five-day session, the Governor advocated for a paradigm shift in how public projects are evaluated, moving the focus away from simple expenditure tracking toward a more rigorous assessment of outcomes. By integrating AI into project management, institutions can transform oversight into a more proactive process, allowing for timely interventions and more efficient implementation of government initiatives. Dr. Asiama noted that such a transition is essential for fostering evidence-based policymaking and addressing the implementation challenges that have historically hindered public sector projects.

Ultimately, the Bank of Ghana chief underscored that maintaining a balance between technological innovation and human responsibility is vital for building stakeholder trust. He concluded that effective monitoring and evaluation systems, supported by reliable data and human accountability, are the cornerstones of transparent governance. By ensuring that AI tools are used to support rather than dictate public policy, Ghanaian institutions can better safeguard national resources and deliver meaningful results for the populace.