What's Happening?
Ghana is shaping its artificial intelligence (AI) strategy to focus on agriculture, healthcare, education, financial services, and public administration. The strategy aims to improve livelihoods and expand access to essential services. Minister for Communications,
Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, emphasized the role of AI in advancing inclusion and reducing inequality. In agriculture, AI will be used for precision farming and market access, while in healthcare, it will support telemedicine and remote diagnostics. The strategy also includes financial technology to enhance credit assessment and financial inclusion, and governance improvements through digitized public services.
Why It's Important?
Ghana's AI strategy is crucial for driving economic growth and improving social outcomes. By focusing on key sectors like agriculture and healthcare, the strategy aims to enhance productivity, manage climate risks, and improve access to medical services, particularly in rural areas. The emphasis on financial inclusion through AI-driven tools can support small and medium enterprises, contributing to economic development. Additionally, the strategy's focus on data governance and regulatory frameworks ensures responsible innovation and protection of data rights, positioning Ghana as a leader in AI within Africa.
What's Next?
Ghana plans to continue developing its AI infrastructure and talent pool, with initiatives like the One Million Coders Program. The government is also working on regulatory frameworks to safeguard data sovereignty and ethical AI use. Strategic international partnerships are being established to support Ghana's AI ambitions, and efforts are underway to create AI tools that serve local needs and languages. The Ministry is drafting an Emerging Technology Bill to establish a legal foundation for AI innovation, which will be reviewed by stakeholders before being presented to Parliament.
