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.

President Adama Barrow Receives First GAM ID as The Gambia Launches National Identity System via Ghana's Margins ID Group
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President Adama Barrow Receives First GAM ID as The Gambia Launches National Identity System via Ghana's Margins ID Group

The Gambia has officially entered a new era of digital governance with the launch of its first-ever unified National Identity Management System, known as GAM ID. This landmark project, developed through a strategic Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Ghana’s Margins ID Group, represents a significant step forward in the nation’s digital infrastructure. President Adama Barrow became the inaugural recipient of the GAM ID card during a ceremony that highlighted the system’s role in providing every Gambian with a secure and trusted identity. This initiative is designed to enhance national security, improve the efficiency of government services, and drive broader economic development by creating a reliable digital foundation for the population. The technical backbone of the GAM ID system is a state-of-the-art National Data Centre dedicated to biometric enrollment and management. This facility ensures data sovereignty, a critical aspect of national security that keeps the sensitive information of Gambian citizens within the country’s control. Following a successful pilot phase that took place from July 6 to July 29, 2026, the government is set to begin nationwide registration on August 4, 2026. The system’s biometric capabilities are intended to eliminate identity duplication and fraud, providing a "single source of truth" for identity verification across various public and private sectors. In the coming months, the GAM ID will become an essential component of daily life in The Gambia, with the government announcing that it will soon be mandatory for obtaining a driver’s license and other vital public services. This project not only underscores The Gambia's commitment to modernization but also showcases the growing expertise of African technology firms like Margins ID Group. By leveraging regional talent and local innovation, the partnership demonstrates a sustainable model for achieving digital independence across the continent. This transition to a unified identity system is expected to pave the way for future digital initiatives, including e-government services and enhanced financial inclusion.

The photograph shows the front of the National Space Centre in Leicester with a banner which reads "25 years of discovery". It is a grey building with a rocket tower.
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Claire Parfitt: From Cleaning Space Toilets to Leading ESA’s Mars Exploration Missions

In an inspiring career trajectory, Claire Parfitt, a scientist who began her journey by cleaning a space toilet during work experience, is now leading Mars exploration efforts for the European Space Agency (ESA). Based at the European Space Research and Technology Centre in the Netherlands, the 42-year-old Nottingham native oversees a team focused on the complex logistics and scientific planning required for future missions to the Red Planet. Her story highlights how early exposure to science and technology can pave the way for leadership in the global space industry. Parfitt’s involvement in space science started at the age of 14 at the National Space Science Centre in Leicester. During her formative summer placement, she was tasked with unpacking and cleaning iconic space artifacts, including a space toilet and the suit worn by the first British astronaut, Helen Sharman. She credits this early environment—combined with the steadfast support of her science teachers—as the catalyst for her ambition to work in the sector. She describes her current role leading mission planning as a "dream come true," fueled by the curiosity sparked during those early years of hands-on work with space hardware. Academic excellence followed her early passion, as Parfitt earned a degree in physics before completing a PhD in spacecraft power systems engineering. This specialized expertise led her to contribute to major international projects, including the Solar wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) mission and the ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover. Since moving to the Netherlands in 2019, she has leveraged this technical foundation to lead mission-critical planning, ensuring that the agency’s sophisticated equipment is prepared for the unique and harsh challenges of the Martian environment. Looking ahead, Parfitt is heavily focused on the highly anticipated launch of the Rosalind Franklin rover, now scheduled for 2028. She emphasizes that these robotic missions are vital stepping stones toward the ultimate goal of human exploration on Mars. Beyond the technical achievements, Parfitt advocates for the scientific preservation of the planet, arguing that the collection of pristine data is essential for understanding its history. As she prepares for the next phase of Martian discovery, her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of educational mentorship and the enduring value of early vocational experiences in STEM fields.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Calls for Global AI Governance and Stringent Child Safety Rules
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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Calls for Global AI Governance and Stringent Child Safety Rules

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a stark warning regarding the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI), stating that technological advancement is currently outstripping regulatory oversight. Speaking at the first government-level global dialogue on AI in Geneva, Guterres called for the urgent establishment of harmonized international rules to manage the risks associated with these emerging technologies. The Secretary-General emphasized that without a cohesive global framework, the potential for misuse and unintended consequences remains high, necessitating a collaborative approach to governance that transcends national borders. Central to the Secretary-General’s appeal was the protection of vulnerable populations, particularly children. Guterres proposed the implementation of an "AI Child Safety Pledge," suggesting that AI systems should undergo rigorous testing protocols similar to those used in the medical industry before being made accessible to minors. He warned that the current pace of deployment often overlooks the long-term psychological and safety impacts on younger generations. By advocating for a precautionary approach, the U.N. aims to ensure that digital innovations do not come at the expense of child welfare or development. Beyond safety concerns, Guterres highlighted a growing digital divide in the AI sector, noting that significant development is concentrated within a handful of powerful corporations and wealthy nations. This concentration of resources and influence leaves many developing countries at a disadvantage, potentially excluding them from the economic and social benefits of the AI revolution. The Secretary-General stressed that AI governance must be inclusive, ensuring that the global south has a seat at the table to prevent a new era of technological inequality. Looking forward, the international community will review an independent report from a U.N.-backed panel designed to address these systemic issues. The goal is to create a roadmap for equitable participation in AI governance and to establish ethical standards that apply universally. As AI continues to reshape industries and societies, the U.N.’s initiative represents a critical effort to harness the power of technology while mitigating its most significant risks through collective, transparent, and global action.

UPSA Developers Hub Unveils Tix4u Platform at Silverbird Cinemas to Redefine Local Event Management
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UPSA Developers Hub Unveils Tix4u Platform at Silverbird Cinemas to Redefine Local Event Management

The Tix4u ticketing platform, an innovative product developed by the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) Developers Hub, was recently showcased at Silverbird Cinemas Ghana, signaling a significant shift in the local event management landscape. Led by Dr. Augustina Dede Agor, the demonstration highlighted how modern ticketing systems are evolving beyond mere transactional tools to become comprehensive management ecosystems. The initiative represents a strategic collaboration between academia and industry, aiming to bridge the gap between software development theory and real-world commercial application within the Ghanaian market. During the presentation, the development team detailed the platform's multi-faceted functionalities, which include streamlined event creation, customizable payment configurations, and secure QR-based check-in systems. Unlike standard ticketing apps, Tix4u integrates critical backend operations such as inventory control and granular user roles. These features allow organizers to manage every aspect of the event lifecycle digitally, from initial planning and resource allocation to real-time audience participation and attendance tracking. This holistic approach is designed to eliminate common bottlenecks in the local events sector by providing a single, unified interface for both administrators and patrons. The engagement at Silverbird Cinemas served as a critical testing ground, allowing the UPSA Developers Hub to gather feedback from cinema staff and industry professionals. This dialogue emphasized the necessity of robust testing and a high-quality user experience to earn consumer trust in locally produced software. By observing the platform in a live environment, the developers identified key requirements for Ghanaian systems, ensuring that the final software is not only technically sound but also practically optimized for the specific challenges of the regional market. As the project progresses, the success of the Tix4u demonstration underscores the potential for Ghanaian universities to drive technological self-reliance. By fostering professional collaborations and focusing on user-centric design, the UPSA Developers Hub is setting a precedent for how homegrown software solutions can meet international standards of efficiency. Moving forward, the integration of such digital systems is expected to enhance transparency in the ticketing process and provide a scalable model for event managers looking to modernize their operations across the country.

Ibrahim Mahama Pledges Support for Young AI Developer Naamgwinaa Samuel
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Ibrahim Mahama Pledges Support for Young AI Developer Naamgwinaa Samuel

Renowned Ghanaian businessman Ibrahim Mahama has announced his commitment to supporting Naamgwinaa Samuel, a young tech developer gaining recognition for his pioneering work in Artificial Intelligence (AI). The gesture, revealed by Mahama’s Special Aide, Rafik Mahama, underscores a growing interest in nurturing local talent within the country’s burgeoning technology sector. Samuel has drawn significant attention for his ability to develop innovative tools that address real-world challenges through AI, positioning him as a standout figure among Ghana’s emerging tech enthusiasts. Among Samuel's most notable creations is a humanoid-inspired smartphone stand, which integrates AI to interact with users through conversational dialogue. This unique device not only demonstrates technical proficiency but also a flair for creative design, as the developer incorporated Ibrahim Mahama’s name into the prototype's aesthetic. The project highlights the potential for AI-driven consumer electronics developed locally, showcasing how young Ghanaians are bridging the gap between hardware engineering and software intelligence to create interactive user experiences. In a public statement, Rafik Mahama praised Samuel’s ingenuity and dedication to his craft, emphasizing that the businessman’s support aims to provide the necessary encouragement and resources to ensure Samuel’s innovation journey continues to thrive. The aide noted the importance of creativity and commitment in the innovation process, reflecting a broader sentiment that identifying and empowering such talent is crucial for the nation’s technological advancement. This endorsement serves as a significant boost for the young developer, providing both visibility and the potential for technical mentorship. This partnership between a leading industrialist and a budding tech talent highlights the critical role of private sector support in the Ghanaian tech ecosystem. By backing Naamgwinaa Samuel, Ibrahim Mahama is signaling a shift toward valuing home-grown AI solutions and encouraging other young innovators to pursue ambitious projects. As Ghana continues to digitize various sectors, the support of established entrepreneurs remains instrumental in transforming experimental prototypes into scalable, market-ready technologies that can compete on a global stage.

Abraham Koomson Urges Government to Adopt Waste Processing Technology to Mitigate Flooding
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Abraham Koomson Urges Government to Adopt Waste Processing Technology to Mitigate Flooding

The Secretary-General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), Abraham Koomson, has issued a stern call to the Ghanaian government to integrate modern waste processing technologies into the national infrastructure. This appeal comes amid growing concerns over the country's persistent flooding challenges, which are frequently exacerbated by poor waste disposal and the clogging of drainage systems with non-degradable refuse. Koomson’s remarks underscore a critical gap in Ghana’s environmental strategy, highlighting that the reliance on outdated waste management methods is no longer sustainable in the face of rapid urban growth and increasing climate variability. In his assessment, Koomson expressed disappointment at the country’s failure to keep pace with global advancements in science and innovation. He pointed out that while other nations have successfully transitioned to automated and high-tech waste processing systems, Ghana continues to struggle with the basic collection and disposal of refuse. According to the GFL leader, the lack of effective waste-processing facilities means that the country is failing to capitalize on the economic potential of its waste. Instead of being viewed merely as an environmental burden, he argues that refuse should be treated as a valuable resource that can be transformed through technology. Central to the GFL’s proposal is the implementation of systems capable of segregating recyclable materials and converting organic waste into useful commodities like organic fertilizer. Such a transition would provide a dual benefit: reducing the volume of waste that ends up in landfills or drainage channels and supporting the agricultural sector with locally produced inputs. Koomson emphasized that by adopting these technologies, Ghana could significantly reduce the environmental hazards that lead to annual flooding, which often results in the loss of lives and property. The segregation of materials like plastics and metals would also foster a circular economy, providing jobs and reducing the nation’s ecological footprint. As Ghana looks toward more resilient urban development, the GFL’s call serves as a timely reminder of the need for political will and strategic investment in the technology sector. The integration of modern waste-to-energy or waste-to-fertilizer plants is presented as a necessary step to modernize the economy and protect public health. Moving forward, the government is urged to collaborate with private sector stakeholders and technology experts to develop a clear roadmap for these advancements. Ultimately, addressing the waste crisis through innovation is not just an environmental necessity but a vital component of the nation’s broader industrial and economic development agenda.

Ibrahim Mahama Pledges Strategic Support for Rising Ghanaian AI Innovator Naamgwinaa Samuel
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Ibrahim Mahama Pledges Strategic Support for Rising Ghanaian AI Innovator Naamgwinaa Samuel

Ghanaian business mogul Ibrahim Mahama, the founder of Engineers and Planners, has signaled his intention to provide substantial support to a budding tech innovator, Naamgwinaa Samuel. The young developer has recently captured national attention for his groundbreaking work in Artificial Intelligence (AI), positioning himself as a significant voice in the country's burgeoning tech scene. This commitment from one of Ghana’s most prominent industrialist figures underscores a growing interest among established entrepreneurs in nurturing local technological talent. The announcement of the support was made by Rafik Mahama, a Special Aide to the businessman, in a social media update. The aide indicated that Ibrahim Mahama’s interest was piqued by the significant impact and potential of Samuel’s AI projects, which have been circulating widely in tech circles. While the specific nature of the support—whether it entails direct financial investment, technical mentorship, or infrastructure access—has yet to be fully detailed, the endorsement from a leader of Mahama’s stature is expected to provide Samuel with a critical platform to scale his innovations. Naamgwinaa Samuel’s projects represent a larger movement of homegrown Ghanaian solutions designed to address modern challenges through advanced computing. In an environment where access to venture capital for early-stage tech startups can often be prohibitive, high-profile private sector participation acts as a vital lifeline. Mahama’s move is seen by industry analysts as a strategic recognition of the role AI will play in the future of the African economy, signaling a shift toward more domestic investment in high-tech research and development. As Samuel prepares to interface with Mahama’s team, the Ghanaian tech community remains optimistic about the implications of this partnership. This collaboration is viewed as a potential catalyst that could encourage other members of the business elite to invest in the nation's digital transformation. By bridging the gap between traditional industry and emerging technologies, such initiatives are essential for Ghana’s long-term goal of establishing itself as a regional hub for innovation and technological excellence.

Predatory Loan Apps in Ghana Target Vulnerable Borrowers Through Deceptive Big Tech Advertising and Harassment
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Predatory Loan Apps in Ghana Target Vulnerable Borrowers Through Deceptive Big Tech Advertising and Harassment

An investigation by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) has uncovered a disturbing trend of predatory lending in Ghana, where unregulated loan applications are exploiting desperate citizens through aggressive digital marketing and intimidation. These applications, often advertised as solutions for urgent financial needs such as medical bills or overdue rent, utilize global platforms like Facebook and Google to target vulnerable individuals. Despite official warnings from the Bank of Ghana regarding the illegality of these services, the apps continue to flourish, creating a cycle of debt and psychological distress for many unsuspecting borrowers who find themselves trapped in exploitative financial arrangements. The modus operandi of these entities involves luring users with the promise of "instant loans" that require minimal documentation or credit checks. However, once an app is downloaded, borrowers frequently find that the actual terms—including interest rates and repayment schedules—are vastly different from the initial advertisements. This "bait-and-switch" tactic is often compounded by the fact that these applications gain access to the user's contact lists and personal data upon installation. When a borrower inevitably struggles to meet the unexpected and often exorbitant repayment demands, the companies transition from service providers to aggressors, using harvested data to launch campaigns of harassment. Reports indicate that these predatory lenders employ coercive tactics, including threatening to contact a borrower's family members, friends, or employers to shame them into payment. An industry insider corroborated these findings, revealing that harassment is a systematic part of the digital lending landscape for these unlicensed entities. For many Ghanaians, the initial relief of receiving funds is quickly replaced by the terror of social stigmatization and relentless digital stalking. The investigation highlights that the urgency of financial crises often blinds individuals to the risks, allowing these apps to weaponize desperation through the very technology meant to provide convenience. While the Bank of Ghana has issued several warnings against using unlicensed digital lenders, the persistence of these apps on major tech platforms remains a significant regulatory challenge. The ease with which these entities can bypass local financial laws by purchasing sponsored ads on international social media sites creates a vacuum where enforcement is difficult. Experts argue that without more stringent cooperation between local financial regulators and global tech giants, Ghanaian citizens will remain exposed. Moving forward, there is a pressing need for both enhanced digital literacy and more robust enforcement mechanisms to protect the public from falling into the traps set by these exploitative financial predators.

GIT Plus and IIPGH Launch Certified Data Protection Program to Secure Ghana's Digital Future
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GIT Plus and IIPGH Launch Certified Data Protection Program to Secure Ghana's Digital Future

In a strategic move to fortify Ghana’s digital landscape, GIT Plus Limited and the Institute of ICT Professionals, Ghana (IIPGH) have entered into a landmark partnership focused on advancing data protection standards. As Ghana’s digital economy undergoes rapid expansion, this collaboration aims to address the critical shortage of qualified data management professionals through structured training. By providing high-level professional development, the initiative seeks to ensure that organizations across the country can navigate the complexities of data privacy while fostering a culture of compliance and security in an increasingly connected world. At the heart of this partnership is the introduction of the Certified Data Protection Supervisor (CDPS) program. This specialized initiative is specifically designed to equip ICT professionals with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to manage data protection frameworks effectively. As regulatory enforcement by the Data Protection Commission intensifies, the CDPS program serves as a vital resource for professionals tasked with safeguarding sensitive information. The curriculum emphasizes the necessity of continuous professional development, recognizing that as technology evolves and data laws become more stringent, practitioners must remain agile and well-informed to protect both corporate and consumer interests. The implications of this collaboration extend beyond simple compliance; they are fundamental to building a robust data governance framework that supports national development. By prioritizing the training of certified professionals, GIT Plus and IIPGH are helping to instill public trust in digital services, which is essential for the sustained growth of Ghana's tech sector. As the country matures into a digital hub, such initiatives underscore that data protection is no longer just a technical requirement but a core professional responsibility. Moving forward, the focus will remain on scaling these educational efforts to match the pace of digital transformation, ensuring that Ghana remains a secure destination for digital innovation and investment.

Google’s AI Shift and the Rise of Zero-Click Searches: Redefining Brand Visibility in the Digital Age
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Google’s AI Shift and the Rise of Zero-Click Searches: Redefining Brand Visibility in the Digital Age

The landscape of online visibility is undergoing a seismic shift as artificial intelligence (AI) fundamentally transforms how businesses interact with potential customers. Traditional search engines, most notably Google, are moving away from the classic model of presenting a list of blue links toward providing AI-generated overviews. These overviews offer immediate answers to user queries directly on the search results page, often eliminating the need for users to click through to a company's website. This evolution marks a critical turning point for digital marketing, where the priority is shifting from simple search engine optimization (SEO) to establishing deep credibility within AI ecosystems. Central to this transformation is the "zero-click" trend, a phenomenon where users find the information they need without ever leaving the search engine results page. Recent data indicates that approximately 66% of Google searches in the United States now end without a click. For brands, this means that traditional traffic-driving strategies are becoming less effective as AI models synthesize web content to provide concise summaries. To remain visible, businesses must ensure that their information is not only indexed but is also perceived as highly credible and authoritative by the AI algorithms that generate these overviews. As the competitive field expands beyond traditional search to include various emerging AI platforms, the battle for brand visibility is increasingly about who can optimize for AI-driven recommendations. It is no longer enough to offer a quality product or service; brands must now focus on creating custom, high-value content that AI models can easily parse and trust. This shift requires a strategic pivot toward building a robust online reputation and prioritizing information that demonstrates thought leadership and unique insights, which are more likely to be featured in AI-generated responses. Looking ahead, the future of digital presence will depend on a brand’s ability to thrive in an AI-driven landscape. Businesses must adapt by moving beyond legacy SEO tactics and embracing a holistic approach that emphasizes authenticity and data-rich storytelling. As AI continues to mediate the relationship between consumers and information, the most successful organizations will be those that view AI not just as a tool, but as a primary audience. Adapting to this new reality is no longer optional for brands seeking to maintain their relevance in an increasingly automated digital marketplace.

India Issues Regulatory Notices to Telegram and Signal Over Username Anonymity and Potential for Misuse
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India Issues Regulatory Notices to Telegram and Signal Over Username Anonymity and Potential for Misuse

The Indian government has escalated its oversight of digital communication platforms by issuing formal notices to messaging giants Telegram and Signal. These notices, sent in October 2023, specifically address concerns regarding the platforms' username features, which authorities argue could be exploited for impersonation and other malicious activities. This move highlights a significant step in India's ongoing efforts to regulate end-to-end encrypted messaging services and ensure greater accountability within the country's vast digital ecosystem. At the center of the government's concern is the anonymity provided by these messaging services. Unlike traditional platforms that may require more transparent identifiers, Telegram and Signal allow users to interact via chosen usernames, often shielding their actual phone numbers or identities from other users. While these features are marketed as essential privacy tools for activists and security-conscious individuals, Indian authorities are increasingly wary of how such anonymity can facilitate fraud, the spread of misinformation, and the creation of fake profiles that mimic public officials or private citizens. This regulatory action reflects a broader trend of increased scrutiny regarding user-anonymity tools on digital platforms worldwide. India, in particular, has been proactive in implementing strict information technology rules that demand higher levels of compliance and traceability from tech companies. The notices sent to Telegram and Signal serve as a clear message from the government that privacy features will not be exempt from scrutiny when they are perceived to conflict with national security or public safety standards. As the situation develops, the responses from Telegram and Signal will be critical to their continued operations in India. Both platforms have built global reputations based on robust user privacy and resistance to government overreach. However, failure to adequately address the government's concerns could lead to legal complications or potential service disruptions in one of the world's largest digital markets. The outcome of this inquiry will likely set a significant precedent for how messaging applications balance the fine line between providing secure, anonymous communication and complying with the transparency demands of state regulators.

WhatsApp Username Feature Faces Global Backlash Over Identity Theft and Fraud Risks
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WhatsApp Username Feature Faces Global Backlash Over Identity Theft and Fraud Risks

WhatsApp's upcoming username-based chat feature, designed to enhance user privacy by allowing communication without sharing phone numbers, has come under intense scrutiny from both public figures and national regulators. Ghanaian actress Nadia Buari and the Indian government have expressed grave concerns that the new system could become a breeding ground for impersonation, phishing, and digital fraud. While the feature aims to modernize the platform’s interface and protect personal contact details, the initial rollout has already encountered significant hurdles regarding identity verification and security. In Ghana, Nadia Buari recently sounded the alarm after discovering that every variation of her name had already been claimed by other users on the platform. Buari warned the public that these accounts could be used by scammers to defraud unsuspecting fans, highlighting a "username grab" that leaves high-profile individuals vulnerable to impersonation. She urged her followers to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be her, emphasizing that the ease of creating anonymous usernames complicates the task of distinguishing legitimate accounts from fraudulent ones in an increasingly complex social media landscape. The concerns raised by individuals like Buari are mirrored at the state level in India, where the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has ordered WhatsApp to halt the feature's rollout. Indian authorities have demanded that the Meta-owned platform justify the feature under national law, citing an 18% surge in cybercrime cases in 2024. The government fears that removing phone numbers from the equation will facilitate anonymous phishing and scams, making it harder for law enforcement to track bad actors. While WhatsApp maintains that it has implemented protective measures, the Indian government insists on a pause until comprehensive consultations are completed. The debate surrounding WhatsApp's usernames highlights a growing tension between digital privacy and security. While privacy advocates argue that government intervention may lack a firm legal foundation, the immediate risks of identity theft remain a primary concern for users and regulators alike. As WhatsApp navigates these regulatory challenges and addresses the impersonation fears of public figures globally, the outcome will likely set a precedent for how global messaging platforms balance the demand for anonymous communication with the necessity of protecting users from evolving digital threats.