Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building a robust Artificial Intelligence (AI) ecosystem to drive economic growth, create jobs, strengthen businesses and improve public service delivery.
Mr Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, said government would ensure that digital innovation was supported by strong governance, public trust and responsible use of AI technologies.
In a speech read on his behalf at the AI Summit and Awards in Accra, he said the government would implement the Ghana National AI Strategy alongside a Data Harmonisation Act to establish data governance frameworks and classification standards across public institutions.
He said the initiative would promote the responsible use of AI and improve data management nationwide.
Mr Nartey George said the Government also planned to establish a National Data Exchange Hub to facilitate standardised and interoperable data sharing among institutions to improve collaboration and service delivery.
He said investments in digital infrastructure, human capital development, digital public services and an enabling policy environment would continue to support research, innovation and the growth of Ghana’s digital economy.
The Minister said the national data centre would be upgraded to support the country’s AI ambitions and meet the increasing demands of digital transformation.
He called for stronger collaboration among academia, industry and the public sector to accelerate the development and commercialisation of AI solutions tailored to Ghana’s needs.
Mr Nartey George urged universities to expand research in artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, data science and imaging technologies while strengthening partnerships with industry to prepare graduates for the evolving digital economy.
The summit, held on the theme: “Artificial Intelligence for Economic Growth and Job Creation,” brought together policymakers, industry leaders, academics, innovators and development partners to discuss opportunities and challenges in Ghana’s AI ecosystem.
Mr Edmond Moukala, Head of the UNESCO Office in Ghana, called on the private sector to invest in local AI talent and ensure the ethical deployment of artificial intelligence solutions.
He urged civil society organisations to continue promoting inclusion to ensure that no one was left behind in the country’s digital transformation agenda.
Dr Kwami Ahiabenu, Chair of the Ghana AI Summit, said the event sought to deepen discussions on Ghana’s emerging AI ecosystem and recognise individuals and organisations advancing innovation in the sector.
The summit featured panel discussions on the impact of AI across industries, workshops to strengthen the capacity of AI startups, and an AI Challenge that showcased innovative AI-driven solutions.
Awards were also presented to individuals, organisations, startups and institutions for their contributions to advancing artificial intelligence in Ghana.
