Sam George warns AI could deepen rural-urban inequality in Ghana

Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam George, has sounded a cautionary note regarding the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), warning that it could significantly widen the developmental gap between rural and urban Ghana. Speaking on the integration of emerging technologies, the Minister stressed that the transformative power of AI would only benefit the entire nation if it is anchored by robust and equitable digital connectivity. He warned that without deliberate intervention, the digital divide could become an insurmountable barrier for underserved populations. To mitigate these risks, George is advocating for a proactive overhaul of Ghana’s telecommunications landscape. He specifically called for upgrading existing rural infrastructure to support high-speed internet, emphasizing the necessity of 4G and 5G technologies. According to the Minister, reliable internet access is no longer a luxury but a fundamental requirement for participating in a modern, AI-driven economy. He noted that while urban centers are increasingly well-served, rural communities face the prospect of economic exclusion if their connectivity remains stagnant while the rest of the world pivots toward automation and intelligent data processing. The Minister drew parallels to the challenges encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic, citing it as a stark example of how technological disparities can cripple essential services. He reminded stakeholders that when schools transitioned to online learning, students in communities with poor connectivity were severely disadvantaged compared to their urban counterparts. This historical precedent, he argued, serves as a vital lesson for the current AI transition. These issues are set to be a focal point at the upcoming Digital Economy Forum, where policymakers will evaluate strategies to ensure that AI serves as a tool for inclusive growth rather than a driver of further socio-economic disparity.