By Ernest Nutsugah
Accra, July 31, GNA – Government has reaffirmed its commitment to developing an Artificial Intelligence (AI) ecosystem to promote economic growth, create jobs and improve public services.
It said it would support digital innovation with strong governance frameworks, public trust and responsible use of emerging technologies.
Mr Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, said this in a speech read on his behalf at the AI Summit and Awards held in Accra on Wednesday.
He said the Ghana National AI Strategy would be implemented alongside a Data Harmonisation Act to establish data governance frameworks and classification standards across institutions to support responsible AI adoption.
Mr Nartey George said Government also planned to establish a National Data Exchange Hub to enable standardised and interoperable data sharing among institutions and improve cross-institutional data flows.
He said Government would continue to invest in digital infrastructure, human capital development and digital public services while creating an enabling policy environment to encourage research and innovation.
“We are also refreshing our national data center to be current and modern, to be able to support what we want to do within the AI space, the most vulnerable resource within every digital economy is people…”
The Minister called for stronger collaboration among academia, industry and the public sector to support the development and commercialisation of locally relevant AI solutions.
“AI offers practical opportunities across every major sector of Ghana’s economy…. Government remains committed to ensuring that innovation is accompanied by strong governance, public trusts, and responsible use.”
“We encourage our universities to continue expanding research in AI, machine learning, robotics, data science, and imaging technologies, while strengthening partnerships with industry to prepare for the evolving demands of the digital economy,” he said.
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 the role of AI in national development.
Mr Edmond Moukala, Head of the UNESCO Office in Ghana, urged the private sector to invest in local talent and ensure ethical deployment of AI solutions.
“Civil society should continue its role a guardian of inclusion and ensure no one is left behind…Let us envision a country where AI is tool for empowerment, fuels economic engines, create sustainable jobs and upholds the integrity of every citizen,” he said.
Panel discussions focused on the impact of AI on industries, productivity enhancement and strategies to strengthen the capacity of Ghana’s emerging AI startups through practical training.
Dr Kwami Ahiabenu, Chair of the Ghana AI Summit, said the event was aimed at deepening
discussions on Ghana’s emerging AI ecosystem and recognising individuals and organisations contributing to innovation in the sector.
The summit also featured an AI Challenge showcasing AI-driven solutions, while awards were presented to individuals, startups, organisations and institutions contributing to the advancement of artificial intelligence in Ghana.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
Reporter: Ernest Nutsugah