Former Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, has urged Ghanaian businesses to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) tools to increase efficiency, reduce operational costs, and compete globally.
Speaking at a public lecture on “AI Disruptions and the Future of Work: Readiness of Our Youth” hosted by the University of Media, Arts and Communications (UniMAC), Bryan Acheampong said local firms risk falling behind if they do not integrate AI-driven solutions across their operations.
“AI disruptions are not theoretical, they are real and already impacting every industry. Ghanaian businesses must take decisive steps to modernize or risk being locked out of global value chains,” he added.
He stressed that AI should no longer be viewed as the preserve of tech companies. Instead, he encouraged firms in manufacturing, agriculture, retail, logistics, and finance to explore practical AI applications such as predictive analytics, intelligent automation, machine learning for customer insights, and supply chain optimization.
According to Dr. Acheampong, Ghana stands at a critical point where companies that fail to embrace AI may experience declining productivity, higher costs, and missed market opportunities.
“Efficiency and speed now define competitiveness. Businesses using AI to streamline operations, forecast demand, and personalize services will set the pace,” he said.
Dr. Acheampong noted that Ghana’s private sector must play a central role in shaping the country’s AI readiness, particularly in supporting youth employment. He encouraged firms to invest in upskilling programs and internships to prepare the next generation of AI-literate workers.
Highlighting opportunities in agribusiness, he cited how AI tools can be used to improve post-harvest management, monitor supply chain risks, and give producers real-time market data. “These innovations can translate into better margins and less waste,” he said.
He challenged business associations such as the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Association of Ghana Industries to partner with government and universities to drive AI education and investment. “We need industry-led innovation if we are serious about transformation,” he added.
As Ghana’s economy becomes more service- and tech-oriented, Dr. Acheampong said AI adoption could help local firms break barriers in markets like fintech, logistics, and agriculture exports.
“We must build platforms where Ghanaian products are not just raw materials but part of smart global value chains,” he emphasized.
With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) creating a larger market, local firms with AI capabilities will be better positioned to scale across borders. However, challenges remain. Many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana struggle with digital infrastructure, a lack of AI awareness, and limited capital.
To overcome this, Dr. Acheampong called for targeted incentives, including tax reliefs for firms investing in AI technologies and government-backed startup support for AI-focused enterprises.
“Government cannot do it alone. Businesses must take bold steps, invest in talent, and think long-term,” he added.
