In a bid to harness technology for societal transformation and economic growth, the Ghanaian government has introduced a Digital Economy Policy, aiming to establish the country as a regional hub for digital innovation.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, outlined the policy’s objectives, which include expanding internet connectivity, fostering digital skills, and leveraging emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data.
Ghana’s digital infrastructure, including the completion of 3,500 km of fiber optic cables in 2023 has created a robust digital backbone, extending high-speed internet to 951 public institutions and remote communities. Platforms like Ghana.gov and the Citizens App have improved access to public services, enhancing efficiency and accountability.
Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful highlighted that the strategy builds on Ghana’s ICT policy journey, which began in 2003, and aims to address challenges such as cybercrime, misinformation, and digital literacy gaps. Public awareness campaigns will be central to these efforts.
The Minister emphasized the critical role of development partners like the World Bank and the Tony Blair Institute in shaping the policy. Collaboration across government, private sectors, academia, and civil society is key to achieving the vision of positioning Ghana as a leader in Africa’s digital economy.
“This policy is our blueprint for the future. Together, we can build a digital economy that transforms lives and secures prosperity for every Ghanaian,” Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful stated.
