By:
Robert Kwaku Annor
Ghana’s Minister for
Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has
urged African countries to develop and govern their own digital technologies
rather than remain dependent on solutions designed elsewhere, as the continent accelerates
efforts to build a competitive digital economy.
Addressing Digital Economy
Live 2026 at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City in Accra, the minister said
Africa must build the capacity to create, adapt and regulate technologies that
reflect its languages, cultures and development priorities.
“Technology, by itself, is
not development. Technology becomes transformational when it solves real
problems, creates real jobs and improves real lives,” he stated.
The forum was held as part
of the 7th Africa Public Sector Conference and Awards under the theme,
“Governance 2030: Resilient Institutions for a Digital, Green & Secure
Africa.”
George said Ghana was
positioning itself as a hub for African innovation, citing the country’s mobile
money interoperability, national digital identity system and growing appeal to
international technology companies, research centres and investors.
His remarks underscored the
importance of African countries developing technological capabilities that
address local needs while supporting innovation, job creation and economic
growth.
The minister’s call comes as
African countries pursue digital transformation initiatives aimed at
strengthening public services, expanding digital economies and increasing their
participation in the development and governance of emerging technologies, including
artificial intelligence.
