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.

A group of eight individuals, including men and women in formal and traditional attire, pose for a photograph in an office setting. They are standing against a vertical wood-paneled wall that features a portrait of President John Dramani Mahama.
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Minister Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings Positions Ghana as Africa’s Emerging Space Science and Technology Hub

Ghana is intensifying its efforts to establish itself as a premier hub for space science and technology in Africa, leveraging its strategic geographic location and long-standing political stability. The Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has articulated a comprehensive national space agenda designed to integrate satellite data into the country’s developmental framework. This vision prioritizes the use of advanced orbital technology to address critical domestic challenges, including chronic flooding, the impacts of climate change, and the complexities of rapid urban development. Central to this technological push is the deployment of satellite imagery, drones, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance environmental monitoring and enforcement. One of the most significant applications of these tools will be the surveillance of illegal mining activities—commonly known as galamsey—which have caused extensive damage to Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves. By utilizing real-time data and high-resolution imaging, the government aims to create a more robust response system to ecological threats, ensuring more effective management of natural resources and public infrastructure. Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings has emphasized that the success of this ambitious program depends on the cultivation of a highly skilled local workforce. To realize a sustainable national space ecosystem, the Ministry is advocating for deep collaboration between the government, academic research institutions, and the private sector. This tripartite partnership is expected to drive innovation in satellite technology and data analytics, fostering a new generation of Ghanaian scientists and engineers capable of leading the continent’s space race. Beyond environmental protection, the proposed space agenda holds transformative potential for other sectors such as agriculture and disaster management. By refining the collection and analysis of satellite data, Ghana hopes to improve crop yields through precision farming and enhance its preparedness for natural disasters. As the nation aligns its policy frameworks with international space standards, these initiatives reflect a broader commitment to using frontier technologies to secure a more resilient and technologically advanced future for all Ghanaians.

Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako's book exhibited at UN Congress in Abu Dhabi
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Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako’s Book on Ghana’s Cybersecurity Journey Showcased at 15th UN Congress in Abu Dhabi

Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako’s seminal work on the evolution of Ghana’s digital defenses has gained significant international recognition at the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. Held in Abu Dhabi from September 26 to October 1, 2026, the congress featured an exhibition of the book titled *The Republic: A Professional Journey, Ghana’s Cybersecurity and the Making of a Role Model Country*. The selection of this text by the UN Commission underscores Ghana's rising profile as a leader in cybersecurity policy and implementation within the West African sub-region and the global stage. Published in November 2025, the book provides a comprehensive chronicle of the strategic initiatives and collaborative frameworks that have shaped Ghana's cybersecurity landscape. Dr. Antwi-Boasiako, a pivotal figure in the nation's digital security architecture, uses the narrative to document the contributions of various key actors and institutions. Rather than focusing solely on individual achievements, the work highlights the institutional synergy required to elevate a developing nation to the status of a "role model" in the complex and rapidly evolving field of cyber governance. The exhibition in Abu Dhabi placed the book alongside other notable global works designed to inspire international cooperation toward creating more just and secure societies. Dr. Antwi-Boasiako emphasized that the inclusion of his work at such a high-profile UN event is a testament to the collective efforts of the Ghanaian cybersecurity community. He noted that the book serves as both a historical record and a roadmap for future initiatives, aiming to inspire other nations to adopt similar rigorous standards in crime prevention and criminal justice within the digital realm. Following the conclusion of the 15th UN Congress, the book will attain a permanent legacy in the Middle East. It has been designated to be housed in a library in Abu Dhabi as part of the UN Commission’s historical collections for future reference. This ensures that the insights and lessons from Ghana’s cybersecurity journey will remain accessible to global policymakers, researchers, and practitioners, further solidifying the country's influence on international digital security discourse.

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Pentagon Formally Severs Ties with Anthropic AI Following National Security and Ethics Clash

The United States Department of Defense has officially terminated its use of Anthropic’s artificial intelligence tools, marking a significant escalation in a months-long dispute over national security and product safety. The decision follows a February 2025 designation by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who labeled the AI firm a "supply chain risk." While the formal announcement was made this week, the move highlights a deep-seated friction between military requirements for unfiltered AI capabilities and the ethical guardrails championed by Silicon Valley startups. Despite the early designation by Secretary Hegseth, the transition away from Anthropic’s flagship model, Claude, proved technically difficult for the military. Claude was deeply integrated into the Pentagon’s Maven Smart System, a critical data platform used for intelligence gathering and operational analysis. Reports indicate that military personnel continued using the tool as recently as last week, even as officials worked to phase it out. The primary point of contention reportedly involved the Pentagon’s request for Anthropic to remove specific safety guardrails from its models—a demand the company refused, citing ethical concerns and its commitment to rigorous safety protocols. Anthropic has not taken the blacklisting lightly, launching legal challenges against the Department of Defense. The company has described the Pentagon’s actions as "unprecedented and unlawful," arguing that the "supply chain risk" label is unfounded and unfairly targets their business model. As the relationship soured, the Pentagon began pivoting toward other major tech players to fill the gap, reportedly seeking new contracts with Google, Elon Musk’s xAI, and OpenAI to sustain its AI-driven intelligence operations and strategy. The situation remains fluid as political dynamics in Washington shift following recent engagements between the tech sector and the executive branch. While the Pentagon has taken a hardline stance, Anthropic’s leadership has recently engaged in high-level discussions with the Trump administration. These meetings suggest a potential shift in relations at the White House level, despite the current military ban. The final outcome of this standoff will likely set a major precedent for how the U.S. government balances the need for rapid military innovation with the safety and ethical standards of private AI developers.

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John Healy Urges African Youth to Embrace AI-Driven Solopreneurship for Economic Transformation

John Healy, the Head of Development and Strategy at Brainify, has issued a call for African nations to prioritize equipping the youth with skills for solopreneurship in response to the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Speaking during a webinar organized by the e-commerce firm Ignite, Healy emphasized that the AI revolution is fundamentally changing the global job market. He argued that young Africans must shift their focus from traditional employment toward technology-enabled income generation, leveraging AI to create independent economic opportunities and participate in the global freelance market. Healy highlighted a significant digital divide in current AI adoption rates, referencing data that shows 28.8% of the Global North utilizes AI compared to only 16.2% in the Global South. To address this disparity, he advocated for systemic improvements in internet access, more affordable technology, and the implementation of structured educational platforms. According to Healy, the goal is to empower the next generation to exploit technology for self-sustained income, ensuring that the continent is not left behind as automated systems and intelligent software redefine productivity. As part of the effort to bridge this gap, Healy introduced Brainify’s AI-powered learning ecosystem, which is designed to drive rapid technological transformation across the continent. The platform, available in 15 languages, aims to provide accessible and relevant educational resources to help users master AI tools. By lowering the barrier to entry for high-level technical skills, such initiatives seek to transform Africa’s large youth population into a competitive workforce capable of navigating the complexities of the modern digital economy. Supporting this vision, Nathan Kwabena Adisi from Ignite discussed the company's commitment to enhancing regulatory compliance and building public trust as it expands across Sub-Saharan Africa. Since its inception in 2026, Ignite has focused on creating a robust e-commerce environment that facilitates digital entrepreneurship. The combined efforts of educational platforms like Brainify and market aggregators like Ignite suggest a growing infrastructure aimed at turning technological disruption into a sustainable economic engine for Africa.

Third edition of Ghana's AI summit and awards to take place in March 2027 in Accra
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Ghana to Host Third AI Summit and Awards in March 2027 to Drive Technological Innovation

The third edition of the Ghana AI Summit and Awards is scheduled to take place in Accra from March 30 to 31, 2027. Organized by Data Nyansa in partnership with Deloitte Ghana and other stakeholders, the event aims to position the nation at the forefront of the global technological revolution. Under the theme ‘THE INTELLIGENT FUTURE: People. Policy. Profit. Progress.,’ the summit will gather a diverse group of policymakers, business leaders, and tech innovators to explore the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential to catalyze national development. The timing of the summit is particularly significant as it coincides with the celebrations marking Ghana's 70th independence anniversary. The two-day program is structured to move beyond theoretical discussions toward practical applications. The first day will feature a hands-on workshop dedicated to AI implementation, while the second day will host the main conference, comprising keynote addresses and expert panel discussions. A central feature of the event is the African AI Roundtable, which seeks to foster regional collaboration and shared AI strategies across the continent. Participants will delve into how AI can transform critical sectors of the Ghanaian economy, including healthcare, agriculture, and governance. To encourage local talent and indigenous solutions, the summit will include the National AI Challenge, providing a platform for researchers and innovators to showcase their groundbreaking work. The event will culminate in the Ghana AI Awards 2027, which aims to recognize and celebrate the leaders and organizations making significant contributions to the country's growing AI ecosystem. By focusing on the pillars of policy and progress, organizers hope to ensure that AI adoption in Ghana is both ethical and economically beneficial. Stakeholders interested in participating can find further details regarding registration and the full event schedule on the official Ghana AI Summit website. This gathering represents a pivotal moment for the country as it seeks to harness the power of ‘The Intelligent Future’ to drive social impact and economic profit for the next decade of its national journey.

The official logo of Telecel, featuring a white lowercase 't' inside a solid red circle above the word 'telecel' in red lowercase font. The graphic is set against a plain white background.
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Telecel Ghana Service Disruption Affects Over 72,000 Subscribers After Double Fibre Cut in Central Region

Approximately 72,754 Telecel Ghana subscribers are currently facing significant service interruptions following a double fibre cut in the Central Region. The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam George, confirmed the disruption, which has impacted voice and data services across several major towns and coastal communities. The incident has affected roughly 181 Radio Access Network (RAN) sites, leading to widespread connectivity issues for the telecommunications provider's customers. The disruption was triggered by damage to cables along two critical routes: the Accra-Winneba and Winneba-Cape Coast corridors. Investigations revealed that the cuts were the result of excavation and road construction works being carried out by a contractor at the Winneba roundabout. Affected areas include Winneba, Agona Swedru, Ajumako, Abura Dunkwa, and various surrounding settlements. This highlights the ongoing challenge of protecting vital telecommunications infrastructure during large-scale civil engineering and road development projects. In response to the outage, Telecel Ghana has deployed engineering teams to the affected sites to begin urgent repairs and restore connectivity. The company is also actively engaging with the road contractor on-site to ensure that further damage to the remaining infrastructure is avoided as construction continues. Telecel has issued a formal apology to its customers for the inconvenience, stressing that it is working to minimize the duration of the downtime while ensuring a stable fix for the network. The National Communications Authority (NCA) is currently monitoring the situation to ensure that service standards are met and restoration is prioritized. This incident underscores a recurring problem in Ghana's digital landscape where a lack of coordination between utility providers and construction firms leads to significant disruptions. As Telecel works toward a full recovery of its services, the event serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of fibre-optic networks to physical damage and the need for more stringent oversight during road excavations.

Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako’s Cybersecurity Memoir Showcased as Global Blueprint at 15th UN Congress
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Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako’s Cybersecurity Memoir Showcased as Global Blueprint at 15th UN Congress

Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako’s book, "The Republic, A Professional Journey, Ghana’s Cybersecurity and the Making of a Role Model Country," has gained international recognition after being featured at the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. Held in Abu Dhabi from September 26 to October 1, 2026, the exhibition highlighted Ghana's significant strides in digital security on a global stage. The congress, a premier international gathering, drew over 5,000 participants from approximately 97 countries, providing a high-profile platform for the documentation of Ghana’s cybersecurity evolution. Published in November 2025, the book serves as a professional autobiography that chronicles Dr. Antwi-Boasiako’s career alongside the broader development of Ghana’s cybersecurity infrastructure. It meticulously details the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders who helped transform Ghana into what is now considered a "role model country" in the digital domain. The selection of the work for exhibition followed a formal recommendation from the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ), underscoring the book's relevance in addressing contemporary public security challenges through international cooperation. During the event, Dr. Antwi-Boasiako expressed his profound gratitude for the collective support that facilitated both the nation's progress and the publication of his journey. He emphasized that the book’s primary objective is to share practical lessons and strategic insights with officials and leaders in public service across the globe. By documenting the resilience required to build safe digital societies, the work aims to offer a functional roadmap for other nations seeking to fortify their own national cybersecurity frameworks against evolving threats. The global impact of the publication is set to extend well beyond the duration of the congress. As part of a prestigious arrangement with the CCPCJ, a copy of the book will be permanently housed in an Abu Dhabi library’s historical collection. This inclusion ensures that Ghana’s cybersecurity journey remains accessible to future scholars, international policymakers, and security experts, cementing the country's status as a leader in digital governance and crime prevention within the international community.

Ghana Opens 5G Spectrum to Competition as Government Ends Next Gen Infraco's Monopoly
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Ghana Opens 5G Spectrum to Competition as Government Ends Next Gen Infraco's Monopoly

Ghana has officially moved to open its 5G telecommunications market to broader competition, ending the exclusive wholesale arrangement previously held by Next Gen Infraco (NGIC). This strategic shift marks a significant departure from the government's initial approach, which concentrated 5G infrastructure deployment under a single entity. By dismantling this monopoly, the Ghanaian government aims to accelerate the rollout of high-speed connectivity across the country while fostering a more competitive environment for mobile network operators.\n\nUnder the previous model, NGIC held a sole mandate to provide the underlying infrastructure required for 5G services, requiring all telecommunications companies to lease capacity from them. However, the new directive allows mobile network operators to independently pursue their own network infrastructure developments and negotiate their own spectrum arrangements. This policy change is expected to give major industry players greater flexibility in how they deploy 5G technology, potentially leading to faster innovation and more tailored service offerings for consumers.\n\nThe decision to open the spectrum to competition follows discussions regarding the efficiency and speed of the initial rollout plan. Industry analysts suggest that allowing established telecommunications companies to utilize their existing infrastructure and expertise will reduce barriers to entry and enhance service reliability. This move aligns with broader regional trends where competitive spectrum allocation has been used to drive digital transformation and economic growth.\n\nAs Ghana transitions to this competitive model, the telecommunications sector is poised for a new phase of growth. The National Communications Authority (NCA) is expected to provide further guidelines on spectrum allocation for individual operators. For the President John Mahama administration, this policy shift represents a key step in strengthening the nation's digital economy and ensuring that Ghana remains a leading hub for technological advancement in West Africa.

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MTN Ghana to Launch 5G Services Following US$202 Million Spectrum License Acquisition from NCA

MTN Ghana is poised to revolutionize the nation’s telecommunications landscape with the upcoming rollout of high-speed 5G services. The National Communications Authority (NCA) has officially awarded the telecom giant spectrum licenses in the 700 MHz and 3 GHz bands, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s digital evolution. Valued at approximately US$202 million, this acquisition positions MTN to deliver next-generation connectivity that promises to transform how Ghanaians interact with technology, businesses, and each other. The company is currently in the final stages of completing the necessary administrative formalities and meeting the payment obligations associated with the license. The strategic investment is specifically designed to address growing demands for data and high-speed internet across the country. By utilizing the 700 MHz and 3 GHz bands, MTN aims to significantly enhance its overall network capacity and improve service quality for its millions of subscribers. This move is expected to not only drive growth in 5G mobility but also bolster home connectivity solutions, providing more reliable and faster internet access for residential users. This infrastructure upgrade is a core component of MTN's strategy to maintain its leadership in the competitive Ghanaian telecommunications market. As MTN progresses with the rollout, it has committed to keeping the market and its stakeholders informed about the timeline and specific availability of the new services. The introduction of 5G is anticipated to catalyze innovation in various sectors, from healthcare to education, by enabling real-time data processing and significantly lower latency. This development aligns with broader national goals of digital inclusion and positions Ghana as a competitive player in the regional technology space, reflecting MTN’s long-term commitment to investing in the country’s digital infrastructure.

Minister Sam George Reports Major Telecel Outage Affecting Over 72,000 Subscribers in Central Region
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Minister Sam George Reports Major Telecel Outage Affecting Over 72,000 Subscribers in Central Region

Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has announced a significant service disruption affecting Telecel Ghana subscribers in the Central Region. A double fibre cut, occurring along the critical Accra-Winneba and Winneba-Cape Coast routes, has left approximately 72,754 users without stable connectivity. The disruption was triggered by excavation activities carried out by a road contractor working in the area, highlighting the ongoing challenges of protecting underground telecommunications infrastructure during public works. The technical impact of the damage is substantial, with the Minister reporting that 181 Radio Access Network (RAN) sites have been compromised. The outage has primarily hit residents and businesses in Winneba and Agona Swedru, as well as several other communities situated along the coastal and transit corridors. For many in these areas, the loss of service has interrupted daily communications and digital commerce, underscoring the vital role of fibre-optic networks in the region's economic and social life. In response to the crisis, Telecel Ghana engineers have been deployed to the affected sites to begin intensive repair and restoration work. Minister George confirmed that the telecommunications provider is also engaging directly with the road contractor to ensure better coordination and prevent further accidental damage to the fibre lines. The National Communications Authority (NCA) is currently overseeing the restoration process to ensure that services are brought back online as swiftly as possible. While Telecel has issued an apology to its affected customers for the inconvenience, the incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of national digital infrastructure. The government, through the Ministry of Communications, continues to monitor the situation closely. Efforts are being made to strengthen protocols between construction firms and utility providers to mitigate such occurrences in the future, ensuring that the country's digital transformation goals remain on track under the administration of President John Mahama.

President Mahama Invites Microsoft to Form Strategic Partnership for Ghana's Digital Transformation
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President Mahama Invites Microsoft to Form Strategic Partnership for Ghana's Digital Transformation

President John Dramani Mahama has called on global technology giant Microsoft to evolve its relationship with Ghana from a traditional service provider into a long-term strategic partner. During a high-level meeting with Microsoft executives in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the President outlined his vision for a robust digital economy that leverages global expertise to drive local innovation, economic growth, and structural transformation. The discussions focused on several critical pillars of the government's technological agenda, specifically digital skills development, cybersecurity, and the urgent need for youth employment. President Mahama emphasized that his administration is committed to equipping Ghanaian youth with globally competitive skills, ensuring they are prepared for the demands of the modern workforce. By collaborating with Microsoft, the government aims to create a pipeline of talent capable of developing indigenous technology solutions that address local challenges while serving the broader African market. Beyond human capital development, the President highlighted the importance of creating a business environment that attracts significant foreign investment into Ghana's tech sector. He noted that the digital transformation agenda is a cornerstone of his strategy to modernize the economy and tackle unemployment through the creation of high-value technology jobs. The partnership is also expected to enhance the country's cybersecurity infrastructure, providing a secure foundation for the rapid adoption of digital tools across various public and private sectors. This meeting signals a proactive shift in how the Mahama administration intends to engage with Big Tech, prioritizing deep-rooted developmental cooperation over simple procurement of services. As Ghana seeks to solidify its position as a primary digital hub in West Africa, the success of such strategic alliances will be measured by their ability to foster a sustainable ecosystem for local startups and entrepreneurs while generating high-quality employment opportunities for the nation's youth.

NITA Appoints ShaQ Express Founder Anthony Owusu-Ansah as Acting Deputy Director-General to Drive Digital Transformation
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NITA Appoints ShaQ Express Founder Anthony Owusu-Ansah as Acting Deputy Director-General to Drive Digital Transformation

The National Information Technology Agency (NITA) has officially appointed Anthony Owusu-Ansah, the tech entrepreneur behind the logistics startup ShaQ Express, as its Acting Deputy Director-General. This strategic move by the agency, which serves as the government's IT regulator and implementer, is designed to bolster leadership capacity and accelerate the deployment of digital public services across Ghana. The appointment comes at a critical juncture as the country seeks to deepen its digital economy and improve the efficiency of government-to-citizen interactions through robust technological infrastructure. Mr. Owusu-Ansah brings a wealth of experience from both the startup ecosystem and the corporate technology sector to his new role. Prior to this appointment, he built a strong reputation in Ghana’s tech space through the founding and management of ShaQ Express. His professional journey also includes key positions at major telecommunications and consumer goods firms, including Vodafone Ghana, Millicom Ghana (Tigo), and Nestl Ghana. This blend of entrepreneurial agility and corporate discipline is expected to bring a fresh perspective to NITA’s operations, particularly in the realms of digital product development and business management. His academic credentials further support his new mandate, featuring an MBA and specialized leadership training from Harvard Business School Online. Beyond his technical and business roles, Mr. Owusu-Ansah has been an active mentor in the entrepreneurship and education sectors, sharing insights with the next generation of Ghanaian innovators. NITA has expressed confidence that his diverse expertise will be instrumental in promoting digital inclusion—ensuring that the benefits of technological advancement reach all segments of the population while strengthening the nation’s underlying technological framework. The appointment of a private sector veteran to a high-ranking regulatory role signals a commitment by the Ghanaian government to bridge the gap between innovation and policy. As Acting Deputy Director-General, Owusu-Ansah is expected to play a pivotal role in NITA's ongoing efforts to streamline digital transformation initiatives. His leadership will be central to improving the accessibility of public services and ensuring that Ghana remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global digital landscape.