Accra: TECHz – News Desk
Ghana has taken a major step toward strengthening its digital economy, following Cabinet approval of a $250 million investment to establish a national artificial intelligence (AI) computing centre aimed at accelerating innovation across key sectors.
Announced by Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, the initiative is designed to position Ghana as a leading hub for responsible AI development in Africa. The proposed centre will support research, development, and deployment of AI technologies across industries including agriculture, healthcare, education, and financial services.
The announcement was made during a national stakeholder engagement on Ghana’s AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) report, held in Accra in collaboration with UNESCO and funded by the European Union. The engagement forms part of broader efforts to assess the country’s preparedness for AI adoption and guide policy direction.
According to the Minister, Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy has also received Cabinet approval and is scheduled for official launch on April 24, 2026. He described the development as a defining moment in the country’s digital transformation journey, noting that the strategy will drive AI adoption across all sectors while ensuring ethical and responsible deployment.
Ghana’s strong digital foundation – underscored by mobile penetration exceeding 110% and over 38 million subscriptions – was highlighted as a key enabler for AI growth. The RAM framework, developed by UNESCO, evaluates readiness across governance, infrastructure, data ecosystems, research capacity, economic readiness, and ethical safeguards.
Four priority areas have been identified to guide implementation: strengthening data governance systems, investing in AI research and computing infrastructure, expanding digital skills and AI education, and embedding ethical safeguards in AI deployment.
The Minister also linked Ghana’s ambitions to the broader continental agenda, noting that the presence of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat in Accra enhances the country’s role in shaping Africa’s digital trade ecosystem.
Stakeholders, including researchers, startups, private sector players, and civil society, were urged to actively participate in driving the initiative through partnerships and practical contributions.
Officials from the Data Protection Commission and the Ghana Commission for UNESCO commended the initiative, emphasizing the importance of ethical AI frameworks, inclusive development, and strong institutions in ensuring that AI benefits all citizens.
The initiative marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s effort to build a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive AI ecosystem, with long-term implications for economic growth and technological advancement across the country.
