“We intend to use Artificial Intelligence responsibly and ethically” – Sam George

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Sam George

Sam Nartey George, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, has said Ghana intend to use Artificial Intelligence responsibly and ethically.

According to Sam George, Artificial Intelligence will be deployed 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, “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”.

Sam George at the launch also engaged in an interactive session with an AI assistant at the Labadi Beach Hotel, identified as Aku

Read Sam George’s interaction with Aku the AI below:

I welcome you all and sincerely appreciate your acceptance of our

invitation to this milestone.

Aku: Honourable Minister… if I may.

SG: Oh! I see we have an unexpected particpant. And you are?

Aku: Good morning, Honourable Minister. I am Aku, your digital assistant

for today. And perhaps… a small glimpse into Ghana’s future.

SG: Interesting! Then you are most welcome, Aku. Though I should say,

we intend to lead that future, not be led by it.

Aku: As it should be. I am here to support Ghana’s ambition, not to define

it.

SG: Certainly! We strongly believe that AI could be a catalyst for

education to reach every child in Ghana.

Aku: In education, AI can support every learner, whether in Accra,

Tamale, or Kumasi. Lessons can be tailored. Questions answered

instantly. Learning… without limits.

SG: You speak Ga? Nice! But AI must also address inequalities in

healthcare access. No?

Aku: In healthcare, AI can assist doctors; helping detect illnesses earlier,

and extending care to communities where access is limited. Supporting

better decisions… and saving lives.

SG: Twi? Now you really impress me. Technology must strengthen care;

never replace compassion. Just as it must engender trust in our financial

systems.

Aku: In finance, AI can protect transactions, expand access to credit,

and support small businesses, from Makola to Mankessim.

SG: Now you are showboating. You speak Dagbani also? I hope you can

be of help to our farmers as well?

Aku: In agriculture, AI can support farmers; predicting rainfall, improving

yields, and reducing uncertainty. From the soil… to the market.

SG: Now my wife has given me enough fetri to agree with you that our

food security can be ensured with AI.

Aku, these possibilities are significant. But Ghana will guide how this

technology is used; with responsibility, ethics, and purpose.

Aku: And I will operate within those principles. Because AI in Ghana must

reflect Ghanaian values.

SG: Indeed!

Aku: Honourable Minister, I will now step aside so you may continue your

address. This moment belongs to leadership.

SG: Thanks, Aku and hope to explore our endless potentials, together.

Aku: Mr President, it is an honour to observe a nation choosing to lead

It’s digital future with clarity and purpose.

SG: Your Excellency, my Gonja is not that deep. I hope Aku did not just

lobby you to reshuffle me and replace me with her?

Read the full statement below: