Technology News from Ghana

The latest technology news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Nana Yaw Amoah-Yeboah Appointed NITA Director-General as Communications Minister Outlines Sector Reforms
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Nana Yaw Amoah-Yeboah Appointed NITA Director-General as Communications Minister Outlines Sector Reforms

The Minister for Communication, Samuel Nartey George, has officially introduced Nana Yaw Amoah-Yeboah as the new Director-General of the National Information Technology Agency (NITA). This leadership change marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s ongoing efforts to modernize its digital infrastructure and governance. The appointment comes as part of a strategic reorganization of the agency, aimed at enhancing its capacity to oversee the nation’s rapidly evolving information technology landscape and ensuring that the public sector remains competitive in the global digital economy. During the introduction ceremony, the Minister acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing Director-General, Dr. Mark-Oliver Kevor, thanking him for his service and his role in laying the foundation for current initiatives. The transition to Mr. Amoah-Yeboah, an experienced professional within the technology sector, is intended to bring fresh perspectives and technical expertise to the agency. The Minister emphasized that the new leadership will be central to implementing a series of high-impact reforms designed to strengthen the regulatory framework governing the digital sector. A central component of these upcoming reforms involves the NITA Act, which is set to undergo significant changes to separate the agency's regulatory responsibilities from its commercial functions. This legislative shift is intended to eliminate potential conflicts of interest and streamline operations, allowing NITA to provide more robust oversight of the private sector while simultaneously managing the government's digital assets more efficiently. Industry observers view this structural change as a necessary step toward creating a more transparent and accountable digital environment in Ghana. In his acceptance remarks, Nana Yaw Amoah-Yeboah expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead and reiterated his commitment to advancing a secure, resilient, and digitally inclusive public service. He highlighted that his immediate focus would be on leveraging emerging technologies to improve service delivery and ensuring that Ghana’s digital growth benefits all segments of the population. As NITA moves forward under this new leadership, the agency is expected to play a critical role in bridging the digital divide and securing the nation's digital future.

Wastle Launches Digital Waste Management Platform to Tackle Ghana's Sanitation Crisis and Promote Circular Economy
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Wastle Launches Digital Waste Management Platform to Tackle Ghana's Sanitation Crisis and Promote Circular Economy

Wastle, a technology-driven waste management firm, has officially launched a digital platform aimed at revolutionizing waste collection services across Ghana. The new mobile application provides a streamlined solution for households, businesses, and institutions to request waste pick-ups directly from their smartphones, effectively removing the traditional dependency on mobile waste collectors who pass by at irregular intervals. This technological intervention comes at a critical time for the nation, as statistics indicate that poor sanitation costs Ghana over GH"6 billion annually—a staggering figure that highlights the urgent need for more efficient and modernized waste management infrastructure. Beyond mere convenience, the platform is designed to champion environmental sustainability and the principles of a circular economy. Alex Kwame Donyinah, the Managing Partner for Operations at Wastle, emphasized that the app serves as a catalyst for promoting waste segregation at the source. By digitizing the process, Wastle aims to encourage users to separate recyclable materials, thereby reducing the volume of waste sent to landfills and fostering a more sustainable ecosystem. Donyinah noted that the initiative is not just about collection, but about changing the national mindset toward waste as a resource that can be reintegrated into the economy through proper processing. The initial rollout of the service is focused on selected constituencies within Accra, with a strategic vision for nationwide expansion in the near future. The launch has received significant local backing, notably from Member of Parliament John Setor Dumelo, who lauded the initiative for its potential to mitigate the perennial flooding issues that plague the capital. These flooding incidents are often exacerbated by blocked drainage systems resulting from improper waste disposal. By providing a reliable and accessible digital collection service, Wastle aims to reduce the environmental degradation and public health risks associated with uncollected waste in major urban centers.

China’s 300MW Shenguan Qicaihe Solar Project Offers Sustainable Energy and Agricultural Blueprint for Ghana
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China’s 300MW Shenguan Qicaihe Solar Project Offers Sustainable Energy and Agricultural Blueprint for Ghana

The Shenguan Qicaihe Photovoltaic Power Station in China's Hebei province has emerged as a global benchmark for the integration of renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. By transforming a once-desertified landscape into a high-capacity 300-megawatt solar farm, the project demonstrates a harmonious balance between technological advancement and environmental restoration. For nations like Ghana, which are currently navigating the complexities of energy transitions and land-use competition, the Chinese model provides a compelling blueprint for a green energy future that supports rather than displaces traditional livelihoods. Spanning approximately 6.6 square kilometers, the facility utilizes an innovative rotational grazing system that allows livestock to roam freely among the solar arrays. This approach ensures that the land remains agriculturally productive while contributing significantly to the regional power grid. The design of the station mitigates the common challenge of solar infrastructure occupying arable land, instead creating a synergistic environment where the panels provide shade for the grass and animals, while the livestock help manage vegetation growth. This initiative is a critical component of China's broader strategic goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, showcasing the scalability of mixed-use green energy projects. The success of the Shenguan Qicaihe project offers profound lessons for Ghana and the wider African continent as they strive to overcome energy access deficits and a heavy reliance on fossil fuels. By adopting a similar "solar-plus-agriculture" framework, Ghana could potentially revitalize underutilized or degraded lands to bolster its national grid and support rural economies simultaneously. As the global community moves toward a post-carbon era, such integrated solutions represent a vital pathway for sustainable economic growth, ensuring that the transition to clean energy also contributes to food security and ecological resilience.

NCA Ends Next Gen Infraco’s Exclusive Monopoly on Ghana’s Wholesale 5G Infrastructure
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NCA Ends Next Gen Infraco’s Exclusive Monopoly on Ghana’s Wholesale 5G Infrastructure

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has officially terminated the exclusive rights of Next Gen Infraco Limited (NGIC) to provide wholesale 5G infrastructure in Ghana. Effective July 15, 2026, this landmark regulatory decision signals a major shift in the country's telecommunications strategy, moving away from a single-provider model toward a more open and competitive marketplace. By amending NGIC’s Wholesale Electronic Communications Infrastructure Licence, the NCA aims to accelerate the rollout of high-speed connectivity while ensuring that the public benefits from diverse service options. The NCA’s decision follows a comprehensive review of the current telecommunications landscape and evolving market dynamics. According to the authority, removing NGIC’s exclusivity is essential to fostering an environment that encourages increased investment and technological innovation. The regulator believes that a competitive market will naturally drive improvements in service quality, making 5G technology more accessible and efficient for businesses and consumers across Ghana. This move aligns with global trends where multiple infrastructure providers often coexist to prevent bottlenecks and promote resilience in digital services. Despite the loss of its monopoly, Next Gen Infraco Limited will continue to play a significant role in Ghana’s digital ecosystem. The NCA clarified that the amendment only removes the exclusivity clause; NGIC maintains all other rights granted under its original licence, including its critical spectrum assignments. As the market opens up, industry observers expect other telecommunications companies and infrastructure providers to explore new opportunities within the wholesale 5G space. This regulatory pivot is expected to catalyze the digital economy, providing the robust infrastructure necessary for Ghana’s next phase of technological advancement.

Amazon to Challenge Starlink with 2027 Satellite Internet Launch in South Africa via Herotel Partnership
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Amazon to Challenge Starlink with 2027 Satellite Internet Launch in South Africa via Herotel Partnership

Amazon has officially announced its entry into the South African satellite internet market, signaling a major challenge to Elon Musk’s Starlink. Through its low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network, Amazon Leo, the tech giant plans to offer a new service named 'Evry' in partnership with local internet service provider Herotel. This strategic move, announced on Wednesday, marks Amazon’s first major agreement for its satellite internet project on the African continent, setting the stage for a commercial rollout scheduled for 2027. The development is expected to provide a new alternative for high-speed connectivity in a region hungry for expanded digital infrastructure. The timing of Amazon's announcement is particularly significant given the regulatory difficulties faced by its primary rival, SpaceX's Starlink. While Starlink has successfully launched services in several other African nations, it has hit a wall in South Africa due to strict local ownership requirements. South African regulations necessitate that companies provide a 30% share of ownership to historically disadvantaged groups, a mandate that Starlink has yet to satisfy. By partnering with Herotel, an established South African provider, Amazon appears to be navigating the local landscape with a focus on compliance and strategic collaboration to avoid similar licensing hurdles. Despite the ambitious plans for South Africa, Amazon currently trails significantly behind Starlink in terms of orbital infrastructure. To date, Amazon has launched approximately 390 satellites for its Leo network, a fraction of the more than 10,000 satellites currently operated by SpaceX globally. However, the partnership with Herotel is designed to leverage local expertise and existing customer bases to bridge the digital divide in South Africa, targeting areas where traditional fiber and mobile networks remain limited or non-existent. As the 2027 launch date approaches, the entry of Amazon Leo into the market is expected to drive competition and potentially lower costs for high-speed internet access across the region. The 'Evry' service represents a critical component of Amazon’s broader strategy to expand its global connectivity footprint and compete directly with established satellite providers. For South Africa, the arrival of another major global player could accelerate digital inclusion and economic growth, provided the company successfully meets the country's stringent empowerment criteria that have so far stalled its competitors.

Wastle Launches Digital Waste Management Platform to Tackle Ghana’s GH¢6 Billion Sanitation Crisis
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Wastle Launches Digital Waste Management Platform to Tackle Ghana’s GH¢6 Billion Sanitation Crisis

Wastle, a technology-driven waste management firm, has officially launched a digital platform aimed at revolutionizing waste collection services for households, businesses, and institutions across Ghana. This innovative mobile application allows users to schedule and request waste pickup directly from their smartphones, providing a modern alternative to the traditional, often unreliable method of waiting for roving collectors. The launch comes at a critical time for the nation, as current estimates suggest that poor sanitation practices drain the Ghanaian economy of more than GH¢6 billion annually. By digitizing this essential service, Wastle seeks to bridge the gap between waste generation and efficient disposal through technology. Beyond mere collection, the platform is designed to champion broader environmental goals and operational efficiency. According to Alex Kwame Donyinah, Wastle’s Managing Partner for Operations, the initiative is central to promoting a circular economy within the waste management sector. The application is built to encourage waste segregation at the source, which simplifies recycling processes and promotes long-term environmental sustainability. By providing a structured and trackable system for waste disposal, the company aims to reduce the prevalence of illegal dumping and improve the overall cleanliness of urban environments, effectively turning waste into a resource rather than a liability. The digital service has initially been deployed in selected constituencies within Accra, receiving significant backing from local leadership. John Setor Dumelo, a Member of Parliament within the launch zone, praised the initiative for its potential to mitigate local sanitation issues, particularly in areas prone to seasonal flooding often exacerbated by clogged drainage systems. Looking ahead, Wastle intends to scale its operations beyond the capital, with plans for a phased nationwide rollout to bring digital waste solutions to all major urban centers in Ghana. This expansion is expected to foster a more organized, data-driven, and environmentally conscious approach to municipal service delivery across the country.

Minister Sam Nartey George Reverses GDCL Contract Suspensions, Assures Staff of Job Security Post-Floods
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Minister Sam Nartey George Reverses GDCL Contract Suspensions, Assures Staff of Job Security Post-Floods

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has provided a firm assurance to the employees of the Ghana Digital Centres Limited (GDCL) that their jobs remain secure despite the recent operational disruptions. During a meeting held on July 13, 2026, the Minister formally announced the Ministry's decision to reverse a previous management directive that had sought to suspend employment contracts. This intervention follows the heavy flooding on June 29, 2026, which caused significant damage to the Accra Digital Centre and prompted management to reconsider staffing levels during the recovery period. Developing the narrative behind the decision, the Minister emphasized that the government is committed to protecting the workforce of the state-owned technology hub. While the damage from the June 29 floods created immediate logistical challenges, the Ministry viewed the suspension of contracts as an unnecessary burden on the staff. By stepping in to overturn the management's initial plan, the Minister aimed to stabilize morale and ensure that the recovery efforts are conducted without the threat of job losses for the dedicated personnel at the facility. Beyond immediate job security, the Minister outlined a broader vision for the future of the Ghana Digital Centres Limited. He highlighted the necessity for the organization to transform into a more financially viable and self-sustaining enterprise. This strategic shift involves significant improvements in corporate governance and a push for greater operational efficiency. According to the Minister, these reforms are essential to ensure that the state-owned tech hub can withstand future shocks and reduce its reliance on emergency government interventions while continuing to serve as a cornerstone of Ghana's digital infrastructure. The reassurance from the Ministry marks a critical turning point for GDCL as it moves from crisis management to a phase of structural reform. As the Accra Digital Centre undergoes repairs, the focus will now shift toward implementing the promised governance improvements to secure the long-term sustainability of the institution. This move signals the government's broader intent to safeguard national technology assets and the human capital that drives the country's digital economy, ensuring that natural disasters do not derail Ghana's technological progress.

Samsung to Unveil Next-Generation Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Flip8 at London Unpacked Event
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Samsung to Unveil Next-Generation Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Flip8 at London Unpacked Event

Samsung Electronics has officially set the stage for its next major technological showcase, announcing that the highly anticipated Galaxy Unpacked event will take place on July 22, 2026. Hosted in London, the event carries the evocative tagline "A New Shape Unfolds," signaling a continued commitment to the evolution of foldable smartphone technology. This global launch is expected to be a pivotal moment for the tech giant as it seeks to redefine mobile experiences through a combination of cutting-edge hardware and sophisticated software enhancements. Industry analysts and tech enthusiasts are looking forward to the unveiling of the next generation of the company’s foldable lineup. The event is widely expected to feature the debut of the Galaxy Z Flip8 and the Galaxy Z Fold8. Notably, rumors and early reports suggest the introduction of a premium Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra variant, aimed at power users who demand the highest specifications. Central to these new releases will be their integration into the "AI era," with Samsung expected to showcase innovative features that leverage artificial intelligence to improve productivity, photography, and user interaction. For the global audience, Samsung will livestream the proceedings across multiple digital platforms, ensuring that fans worldwide can witness the reveals in real-time. The broadcast is scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m. BST. In addition to the product launches, Samsung has opened registration for the event, offering early registrants a chance to enter a prize draw. This engagement strategy underscores the company's effort to build community excitement and reward its loyal customer base ahead of the commercial availability of the new devices. As the smartphone market increasingly pivots toward foldable form factors and generative AI capabilities, this Unpacked event represents Samsung's strategic move to maintain its leadership position. By choosing London as the venue and focusing on "new shapes," the company is emphasizing its role as an innovator in a competitive landscape. The success of these devices will likely influence the direction of mobile technology for the remainder of the decade, setting a benchmark for how hardware design and artificial intelligence can coexist to provide more intuitive and versatile user experiences.

Cambridge University Report Reveals Boko Haram's Strategic Use of AI for Terror Operations
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Cambridge University Report Reveals Boko Haram's Strategic Use of AI for Terror Operations

Recent findings from a Cambridge University study have uncovered a concerning shift in the operational tactics of the jihadist group Boko Haram. Far from merely using digital tools for propaganda, the group has reportedly integrated sophisticated artificial intelligence models, including ChatGPT and Claude, to enhance its combat effectiveness. This development marks a significant transition in how non-state armed groups in West Africa are leveraging emerging technologies to orchestrate violence and bypass traditional security measures, signaling a new era of digital-enabled insurgency. Testimonies from former members of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) provide a chilling look into the specific applications of these AI tools. According to the report, the group has utilized AI to refine drone deployment strategies, improve the lethality of improvised explosives, and streamline the logistics of planning raids. While earlier assessments of AI in the context of terrorism focused primarily on the spread of disinformation and recruitment materials, these new insights suggest that AI has become an integral component of their physical operational efficiency, allowing them to optimize field tactics with unprecedented speed. The rapid adoption of these tools poses a direct challenge to the safeguards established by AI developers like OpenAI and Anthropic. Despite efforts to implement rigorous safety protocols and content filters designed to prevent the generation of harmful or tactical instructions, the report indicates that terrorist organizations are finding ways to exploit the technology for tactical gain. Security specialists warn that the ability of AI to synthesize complex information and provide instructional support can significantly lower the barrier for carrying out sophisticated attacks, making insurgent strategies more unpredictable and harder for regional security forces to counter. Experts suggest that Boko Haram’s move toward AI-driven warfare is likely an indicator of a much broader global phenomenon where various terrorist groups are adapting similar technologies to bolster their capabilities. The Cambridge report serves as a critical call to action for both technology companies and international security agencies to collaborate on more robust defensive mechanisms and monitoring systems. Addressing this evolving threat will require a multifaceted approach that combines technological oversight with on-the-ground intelligence to mitigate the risks of AI-enhanced terrorism across the continent.

Swiss Regulator Investigates Google Over Removal of Android Search Engine Choice Screen
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Swiss Regulator Investigates Google Over Removal of Android Search Engine Choice Screen

Switzerland’s Competition Commission (COMCO) has launched a preliminary investigation into Google, focusing on the tech giant's decision to remove the "Choice Screen" feature from Android devices within the country. This feature, which traditionally allowed users to select their preferred default search engine during the initial setup of a new device, has reportedly been deactivated for Swiss consumers while remaining operational across other European nations. The regulator is concerned that this move effectively mandates Google as the default search option, potentially stifling competition in the digital search market. The investigation centers on the disparity between Switzerland and the European Economic Area (EEA). While Google continues to provide choice-of-provider options to users in neighboring European countries to comply with regional regulations, the removal of this feature in Switzerland has raised red flags regarding unfair competition practices. COMCO emphasized that default settings play a critical role in consumer behavior, and by locking in its own services as the standard, Google may be placing other search engine providers at a significant disadvantage. Google’s influence in the Swiss digital landscape is substantial, with market data indicating that the company currently commands an 82% share of the search engine market. The preliminary probe will specifically assess whether Google’s actions constitute a breach of the Swiss Cartel Act, which aims to prevent dominant firms from abusing their market position. Authorities are investigating if the lack of a choice screen unfairly leverages Google's existing dominance to prevent competitors from gaining a foothold with Swiss Android users. In response to the announcement, Google has acknowledged the investigation and expressed its intention to cooperate fully with the Swiss authorities. This development comes amid a global wave of regulatory scrutiny against big tech companies regarding their "gatekeeper" status on mobile platforms. As the probe progresses, it will determine if a more formal, in-depth investigation is required to protect the interests of Swiss consumers and ensure a level playing field for all digital service providers in the country.

Sam Nartey George Reverses Job Suspensions at Ghana Digital Centres Following Flood Damage
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Sam Nartey George Reverses Job Suspensions at Ghana Digital Centres Following Flood Damage

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has officially assured staff at the Ghana Digital Centres Limited (GDCL) that there will be no job losses despite the significant damage caused by recent flooding. This high-level intervention comes after the Ministry reversed an earlier decision by GDCL management to suspend employment contracts following the devastating floods on June 29, 2026, which severely impacted the Accra Digital Centre. The reversal signals a firm government commitment to protecting livelihoods even in the face of environmental disasters. During a meeting held on July 13, 2026, the Minister met with the affected workers to clarify the government’s position and provide security regarding their employment status. The initial management move to suspend contracts had created widespread anxiety among the workforce at the state-owned technology hub. However, the Minister’s directive ensures that the recovery efforts for the damaged infrastructure will not come at the expense of the employees' positions or financial stability, reinforcing the government's role as a protective employer during crises. Beyond immediate job security, Minister Sam George outlined a broader vision for the GDCL’s recovery and future operations. He emphasized the critical need for the center to evolve into a financially viable enterprise, moving away from reliance on government subventions. This transformation involves implementing stricter corporate governance protocols and improving operational efficiency to ensure that the hub remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s digital economy and a sustainable platform for innovation. The Minister stressed that the facility must be managed with a commercial mindset to ensure long-term sustainability. The Minister’s commitment highlights the government’s strategic focus on protecting the digital workforce as part of a larger national resilience plan. As the Accra Digital Centre undergoes repairs and restoration, the focus shifts toward building more robust systems to mitigate the impact of future climate-related events while maintaining the productivity and morale of the staff. This decision is viewed as a vital step in maintaining stability within the nation's burgeoning technology sector during a challenging recovery period.

Samsung to Unveil Galaxy Z Fold8 and Flip8 at July 2026 Unpacked Event in London
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Samsung to Unveil Galaxy Z Fold8 and Flip8 at July 2026 Unpacked Event in London

Samsung Electronics has officially set the stage for its next major hardware reveal, scheduled for July 22, 2026. Taking place in the heart of London under the evocative tagline "A New Shape Unfolds," the Galaxy Unpacked event is poised to be a milestone for the tech giant as it continues to push the boundaries of foldable technology and artificial intelligence. The choice of London as a host city underscores the global importance of this launch, which will be livestreamed across multiple digital platforms to reach millions of viewers worldwide. Industry watchers and tech enthusiasts anticipate the high-profile debut of the Galaxy Z Flip8 and the Galaxy Z Fold8. In a significant move to capture the ultra-premium market, reports indicate that Samsung will also introduce a Z Fold8 Ultra variant, designed to offer peak performance for power users. These flagship devices are expected to integrate advanced hardware with deep artificial intelligence functionality, reinforcing Samsung’s commitment to leading what it terms the "AI era." This focus on innovation aims to provide users with more intuitive and productive mobile experiences. For those looking to participate in the festivities from afar, the livestream is set to commence at 2:00 PM BST. Samsung is also encouraging fans to register for the event via their official website, providing an opportunity for registrants to enter a competition for various prizes. This engagement strategy highlights the company's efforts to build community momentum and reward its loyal customer base ahead of the commercial release. As the foldable market matures and competition from other global manufacturers intensifies, this Unpacked event serves as a critical moment for Samsung to defend its market leadership. By focusing on "A New Shape," the company hints at hardware design shifts that could redefine the foldable category, ensuring its latest generation of devices remains the industry benchmark for innovation in 2026 and beyond.