Ghanaian technology companies must prioritize developing software tailored to local needs if they are to remain competitive and capture opportunities in Africa’s fast-growing digital economy, a Canadian academic has advised.
Professor Akbar Saeed, Associate Professor of Information Systems at Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada, cautioned that relying heavily on imported software could lock Ghanaian firms out of innovation leadership, while also embedding foreign cultural biases into local systems.
Speaking on the sidelines of the second International Conference on Science, Technology, and Health Innovation for Sustainable Development (STHISD 2025) at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani, Prof. Saeed said; “Software built in the West reflects the values and algorithms of its creators. These may not align with Ghana’s realities. If local firms don’t build their own systems, they risk being boxed into solutions that don’t fit their business environment.”
Business Risks and Opportunities
For businesses, the issue goes beyond technology. Foreign-designed systems often create inefficiencies when applied in African markets, leading to higher costs, mismatched user experiences, and potential regulatory challenges. Firms that fail to adapt may lose out to competitors who better understand local customers.
On the flip side, companies that invest in local software development could gain a significant advantage. Tailored solutions can improve efficiency, reduce dependency on costly foreign platforms, and open doors to regional markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Tackling Algorithmic Bias
Prof. Saeed stressed that businesses must also confront the issue of algorithmic bias. If left unchecked, such biases could affect financial services, recruitment platforms, e-commerce, and even health-tech systems, leading to unfair outcomes and reputational risks.
He urged Ghanaian developers to integrate cultural context into their design and continuously test software post-implementation.
“Biases may not be visible at the start but can emerge over time. Regular evaluation is key to refining systems so they remain fair and inclusive,” he said.
ICT as Business Infrastructure
At the same event, Professor Elvis Asare-Bediako, Vice-Chancellor of UENR, highlighted how digital tools have become central to modern business. “ICT is no longer a luxury. It is essential infrastructure that drives connectivity, innovation, and competitiveness across sectors,” he said.
He added that stronger collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers was critical to turning scientific research into commercial innovation that solves real-world challenges in health, agriculture, and climate resilience.
The Bigger Picture for Ghanaian Firms
Analysts argue that the message to Ghana’s private sector is clear: building homegrown digital solutions is not just about national pride but about market survival and growth.
From fintech to agritech and health-tech, businesses that design with local realities in mind will be better positioned to secure investment, scale across Africa, and compete globally.
