President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled an ambitious National Artificial Intelligence Strategy aimed at positioning Ghana as a leading AI hub in West Africa and across the continent.
Launching the initiative in Accra on Friday, April 24, President Mahama described the move as a defining step in Ghana’s transition toward a digitally driven economy, stressing that the country must move beyond passive consumption of emerging technologies.
“This is a significant milestone in our national journey towards a digitally empowered, innovation-driven and globally competitive Ghana,” the President said. “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.”
$270 Million Investment Package
The strategy features a $250 million allocation for the establishment of a national artificial intelligence computing centre, with an additional $20 million designated for short- to medium-term implementation.
President Mahama said the proposed facility would serve as a hub for research, innovation and enterprise development, enabling local talent to create solutions with relevance beyond Ghana’s borders.
“Infrastructure is the foundation upon which innovation rests,” he stated. “These investments are bold but necessary.”
Institutional Framework
According to Professor Jerry John Kponyo of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, plans are underway to establish an independent Responsible AI Authority within the first year, alongside a national AI office under the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation.
A National AI Fund is also being proposed to provide sustainable financing for research, innovation and long-term implementation.
Collaboration and Ethical Concerns
Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George emphasised the need for collaboration across government, academia, industry and civil society, noting that AI is already transforming healthcare, agriculture, education and finance.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin cautioned that while AI presents significant opportunities, it carries risks if not properly regulated. He warned that unchecked deployment could deepen inequality, weaken social trust and threaten democratic values.
“If left unchecked or poorly governed, it can deepen inequality, weaken social trust, threaten privacy, and marginalise the most vulnerable among us,” he said.
Building Capacity
President Mahama revealed that ministers and senior officials have already undergone a national AI boot camp to deepen their understanding of emerging technologies. The government has also designated AI focal persons within ministries to lead adoption efforts.
The strategy focuses on strengthening STEM education, supporting research institutions and equipping the public sector to integrate AI into governance and service delivery.
