Johnson Pandit Asiama urges IMF to support Africa's AI governance

Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama has called on the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to intensify its support for Africa’s digital transformation. Speaking at the 2026 IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Thailand, Dr. Asiama emphasized that the continent requires robust assistance in artificial intelligence (AI) governance, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure to ensure economic resilience. His remarks during the African Caucus Meeting underscored the critical role of digital sovereignty in achieving long-term development across the continent.

During the sessions, the Governor warned that Africa risks further marginalization in the global economy without urgent, coordinated action to enhance its digital capabilities. He highlighted the intersection of AI and macro-financial stability, arguing that African nations must help shape the global rules and standards governing digital technologies. While noting advancements in digital payments across the continent, Dr. Asiama stressed that improved regulatory capacity and digital risk management are essential to leveraging AI for sustainable development and avoiding the pitfalls of the global digital divide.

The Ghanaian delegation in Bangkok is led by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who is overseeing efforts to mobilize investment and secure financing deals. The team has been engaging in bilateral discussions and investor briefings from October 12 to 18, focused on attracting international financial institutions to support Ghana’s digital and economic goals. Although no formal financing packages have been announced yet, officials indicate that negotiations are progressing with the expectation of formal commitments in the coming days.

This push for digital inclusion comes as IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva outlines the Fund’s Global Policy Agenda. For Ghana and its African peers, the primary objective remains securing the necessary financing and technical expertise to protect domestic economies from cyber threats and ensure they are not left behind in the rapid global AI revolution. The delegation’s efforts reflect a broader strategy to integrate digital risk management into the national economic framework.