By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Ghana has called for
emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), satellite
connectivity and digital infrastructure, to be developed and deployed in ways
that address real human needs, bridge the digital divide and create opportunities
for all.
The Minister for
Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George,
made the call during a panel discussion on emerging technologies on the
sidelines of the ongoing International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 (PP-26) in Doha, Qatar.
“The question is not whether
AI will shape Africa, but whether Africa will help shape AI,” the Minister
stated, urging stronger collaboration among governments, industry, academia and
civil society in developing rules that work across borders.
Using the stories of four
hypothetical Ghanaians, Mr George illustrated how technology and policy
decisions taken at the global level could directly affect people's lives.
He highlighted an AI-powered
health service that enables pregnant women to access emergency assistance
through basic mobile phones without internet access. He disclosed that the
service had enrolled more than 7,000 mothers and expectant mothers at one hospital
in Ghana, demonstrating how technology can improve maternal healthcare.
On connectivity, he stressed
that expanding network coverage alone was insufficient, insisting that digital
access must also be affordable, reliable and meaningful. He called for greater
investment in infrastructure, digital skills and local content, particularly
for underserved communities.
Addressing satellite
connectivity and spectrum management, the Minister emphasised the need for fair
access to limited orbital and spectrum resources, cautioning that being the
first to launch satellites must not translate into ownership or exclusive control
of space resources.
He also called for
responsible and accountable AI systems that understand local languages, reflect
local realities and provide individuals with the right to explanations and
redress when automated decisions affect their lives.
Highlighting Ghana's
commitment to building local technological capacity, Mr George referenced the
One Million Coders Programme, which has attracted more than 140,000
registrations. He noted that young people must be equipped not merely to use
technology but also to develop and innovate with it.
The Minister further called
for international partnerships that build local capacity rather than
dependency, alongside increased investment, technology transfer, South-South
cooperation and the development of standards that reflect the needs of
developing countries.
