“Ghana will not be just a passive consumer of technologies” – Mahama says as he launches National AI Strategy

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President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama, at the official launch of Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in Accra, has boldly declared that Ghana will not be just a passive consumer of technologies shaping the future.

According to John Mahama, the launch of Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in Accra is a significant milestone in Ghana’s journey towards a digitally empowered, innovation-driven and globally competitive Ghana.

He disclosed that his government’s vision is to position Ghana as a leading AI hub in West Africa and the wider continental region.

Speaking at the launch of Ghana’s National AI Strategy in Accra on Friday, April 24, President John Mahama stated, “This is a significant milestone in our national journey towards a digitally empowered, innovation-driven and globally competitive Ghana. It is also a statement of intent that Ghana will not be just a passive consumer of technologies shaping the future, but that we are going to be an active participant in designing, governing and deploying them for our national transformation”.

“Our vision is therefore clear to position Ghana as a leading AI hub in West Africa and the wider continental region, driving innovation, creating jobs, strengthening institutions and delivering inclusive national development,” he stated.

“This vision requires leadership from the top, and that is why I recently packed all my ministers and senior government officials into the National AI bootcamp. That decision was deliberate. Leadership must understand the tools that will define our future,” he added.

Also, President John Dramani Mahama has announced that his government will invest $270 million to establish a world-class AI computing centre.

According to John Mahama, infrastructure is the foundation upon which innovation rests.

He disclosed that an additional $20 million will be dedicated to supporting the rollout of the strategy.

Speaking at the launch of Ghana’s National AI Strategy in Accra on Friday, April 24, President John Mahama stated, “Infrastructure is the foundation upon which innovation rests. Ghana will invest $250 million to establish a world-class AI computing centre.

In addition, the government will commit $20 million to support the short to medium-term National AI strategy. These investments are bold but necessary,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sam Nartey George, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, has said Ghana is not interested in reckless adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

According to Sam George, the government of Ghana intends to use Artificial Intelligence responsibly and ethically, in accordance with a well-thought-out governance framework to transform Ghana’s economy and improve the lives of Ghanaians.

Speaking at the launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy on Friday, April 24, Sam George said, “Today’s launch demonstrates His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to driving Ghana’s digital journey. Ghana steps forward, deliberately and confidently, into the Intelligence Age. Guided by President Mahama, the Ministry defines our national direction for full participation in the emerging technology space.

We intend to use Artificial Intelligence responsibly and ethically, in accordance with a well-thought-out governance framework. This technology will transform our economy and improve our people’s lives.

Your Excellency, this journey has been deliberate and inclusive. From the outset, we were clear from a policy perspective: Artificial Intelligence is not just a technology issue but a pathway to advance national development. The Strategy impacts governance, education, health, agriculture, industry, economy, and all spheres of society. We are also mindful that Artificial Intelligence is a Sovereignty issue”.

Sam George further announced, “We are strengthening digital infrastructure through expanded 4G and 5G connectivity, and a modernised National Data Centre lays the foundation for successful AI deployment. We also prioritise data governance by developing the Data Harmonisation Bill. Without quality, secure, and well-managed data, AI cannot work. Ghana’s data must work for Ghana. This government leads by example. We must become data-driven, efficient, and responsive to citizens.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, as we move forward, we do so with responsibility. We are not interested in reckless adoption of AI. We are committed to responsible and ethical AI. We align with global frameworks such as the UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) and rely on our legal and regulatory institutions.

Together, we are building systems that protect privacy, ensure fairness, and foster trust”.

The Communication Minister detailed that the government will collaborate with the “UNDP to train all Chief Directors and Directors in the Civil Service between June and December 2026. This training will ensure that they implement KPIs aligned with national priorities”.