The Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin says Ghana’s new artificial intelligence strategy must serve as a “social contract” to ensure technological progress does not deepen inequality or erode public trust.
Speaking at the launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in Accra, Bagbin said the policy marks a pivotal step in Ghana’s development as governments globally grapple with the economic and social implications of AI.
“It represents a defining moment in Ghana’s national development journey,” he said. “We gather here not merely to launch a strategy but to affirm a vision.” The strategy aims to position Ghana as a leader in the responsible use of emerging technologies across Africa, while addressing risks linked to privacy, inequality and governance.
“Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping economies, governance systems, production processes, education, healthcare and security across the globe,” Bagbin said, adding that its “potential immense and its impact unavoidable.”
He cautioned that while AI can boost productivity and expand economic opportunity, weak oversight could undermine social cohesion. “If left unchecked or poorly governed, it can deepen inequality, weaken social trust, threaten privacy and marginalize the most vulnerable among us,” he said.
Bagbin said the framework should guide inclusive growth, ensuring that rural communities and vulnerable groups are not left behind as digital transformation accelerates. “It is not merely a technical roadmap, it is a social contract,” he said. “Technology progress must never come at the expense of human progress.”
Parliament will play a central role in shaping the regulatory environment, with Bagbin indicating that new legislation will be needed to keep pace with rapid technological change. “Laws must keep pace with innovation, ensuring safety, accountability and public trust,” he said.
The Speaker called for coordinated action across government, academia, the private sector and civil society to implement the strategy and manage emerging risks. “No single institution, no single sector and no single generation can carry this responsibility alone,” he said.
Ghana’s AI strategy is expected to focus on applications in agriculture, healthcare, education and public sector efficiency, as the country seeks to harness technology to drive job creation and economic growth.
Bagbin said the success of the initiative will depend on sustained collaboration and adherence to core principles of fairness, inclusiveness and accountability as Ghana builds what he described as an “AI-powered future” aligned with its democratic values.
