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.

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs Addresses Technical Failure of Ghana’s Online Passport Application System

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has officially confirmed that Ghana’s online passport application portal, a vital piece of the nation’s digital infrastructure, is currently suffering from a significant technical fault. The outage has rendered the official website, passport.mfa.gov.gh, completely inaccessible to the public, effectively halting the processing of new applications and renewals through the digital channel. This disruption has caused considerable concern among citizens and residents who rely on the platform to secure travel documentation, highlighting the vulnerabilities inherent in the digitalization of essential government services. In response to the crisis, the Ministry’s internal technical team has been deployed to diagnose and rectify the underlying issues. Notably, the MFA has announced a strategic collaboration with the National Signals Bureau to facilitate the recovery process. The involvement of the National Signals Bureau, an agency typically associated with national security and signals intelligence, suggests that the government is treating this outage with the highest level of urgency and technical scrutiny. While the Ministry has been transparent about the existence of the fault, they have not yet clarified the specific root cause—whether it is a routine server failure, a complex database error, or a potential security breach that required immediate suspension of services. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a public apology for the inconvenience the situation has caused, acknowledging the frustration of applicants who are now facing delays in their travel plans. This portal serves as the primary interface for Ghanaians both locally and in the diaspora, streamlining what was once a cumbersome manual process. The sudden loss of service serves as a stark reminder of the importance of redundancy and robust cybersecurity measures in the management of national identification systems. Officials have urged the public to exercise patience as they work to ensure the platform's long-term stability and security upon its return. As of the latest update, no specific timeline has been established for the restoration of the passport application services. The Ministry has committed to providing periodic updates to keep the public informed of their progress and any interim measures that may be put in place to handle urgent cases. This incident is expected to prompt further discussions regarding the resilience of Ghana’s e-government platforms and the need for continuous investment in digital maintenance and emergency response protocols. For now, applicants are advised to monitor official government communication channels for the announcement of the portal's return to functionality.

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Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority Urges Journalists to Protect National Digital Safety Through Responsible Reporting

Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued a stern caution to media practitioners against the premature or unverified publication of cybercrime claims and digital vulnerabilities. Speaking at a specialized training session for journalists, Alex Awere-Kyere, Senior Manager at the CSA, emphasized that while reporting on digital threats is essential, doing so without proper verification or before authorities can address flaws can inadvertently provide a roadmap for cybercriminals. He noted that the responsibility of the media is paramount in maintaining national stability in an increasingly digital world. The training was organized as a pivotal component of the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project. This initiative aims to equip media professionals, particularly those in community-based outlets, with the technical knowledge and ethical framework required to cover the complex landscape of digital security. Awere-Kyere highlighted that the media's role is critical in public education; however, he warned that sensationalist or hasty reporting could compromise ongoing forensic investigations and leave sensitive infrastructure exposed to further exploitation by bad actors. As Ghana continues to expand its digital economy, the collaboration between the Cyber Security Authority and the media is viewed as a vital defense mechanism. By fostering a culture of responsible disclosure and rigorous fact-checking, the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project seeks to ensure that journalists serve as a shield for the public rather than an unintended gateway for cyber threats. Moving forward, the CSA encourages a closer working relationship with newsrooms to verify technical details and ensure that the public is informed without being put at unnecessary risk.

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Meta Explores Mid-Trial Settlement in Landmark US Lawsuit Over Youth Social Media Addiction

Meta Platforms is reportedly engaged in settlement discussions with 29 U.S. state attorneys general, potentially bringing an early end to a high-profile legal battle over the impact of Facebook and Instagram on young users. The negotiations occur while a federal trial is already underway, involving allegations that Meta’s platforms were engineered with addictive features that have directly contributed to a mental health crisis among children and teenagers. This litigation represents one of the most significant legal challenges to the social media industry to date, highlighting growing concerns over digital safety. The legal challenge centers on the assertion that Meta prioritized user engagement and corporate profit over the safety of its most vulnerable demographic. Beyond the addiction claims, the states have also accused the tech giant of violating various state and federal privacy laws related to the collection and handling of children's data. These allegations form part of a broader global scrutiny of Big Tech's influence on society, as prosecutors seek to hold the company accountable for the perceived harms generated by its proprietary algorithms. For its part, Meta has staunchly denied the claims throughout the litigation. The company maintains that it has invested heavily in safety features, citing more than 30 tools designed to assist parents in monitoring their children’s activities and setting limits on screen time. Meta argues that its platforms provide valuable connection and community for young people, and that the lawsuits misrepresent the company's long-standing commitment to safety and transparency. Despite these defenses, the pivot toward settlement talks suggests a desire to avoid the risks of a definitive court verdict. A settlement in this case could have far-reaching implications for the global tech industry, potentially forcing major changes to how social media applications are designed and marketed to minors. As the trial continues in federal court, industry analysts are watching closely to see if Meta will opt for a multi-million-dollar resolution or risk a court ruling that could set a binding legal precedent. Regardless of the outcome, the case underscores the growing momentum for stricter regulation of social media platforms worldwide, including in emerging digital markets.

Telecel Ghana Partners with Whalebone to Launch SecureNet Cybersecurity Protection for Mobile Users
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Telecel Ghana Partners with Whalebone to Launch SecureNet Cybersecurity Protection for Mobile Users

Telecel Ghana has officially introduced SecureNet, a robust network-level cybersecurity service designed to safeguard its mobile customers from the rising tide of digital threats. Developed in strategic partnership with global cybersecurity firm Whalebone, the new service provides a seamless security layer that operates directly at the network level. This innovative approach ensures that users are protected from phishing attempts, malicious websites, and fraudulent links without the need for any additional software downloads or complex installations on individual devices. The initiative comes at a critical time as Ghana’s digital landscape continues to expand, bringing both opportunities and increased risks. According to Aneth Muga, Telecel Ghana's Director of Consumer Business, the surge in connectivity across the country has unfortunately made users more vulnerable to sophisticated cyber threats. SecureNet addresses this by offering real-time protection, automatically blocking access to harmful content and known scam sites before they can reach the end-user. This proactive defense mechanism is specifically tailored to mitigate the risks associated with the increasing prevalence of mobile-based scams and data breaches. To ensure widespread accessibility, Telecel Ghana has made SecureNet available through various flexible subscription models, allowing customers to choose plans that best fit their usage patterns. Beyond individual protection, the launch of SecureNet is expected to bolster overall consumer confidence within Ghana’s growing digital economy. By providing a safer online environment, Telecel aims to encourage more secure digital transactions and interactions, ultimately supporting the nation’s broader technological advancement and digital inclusion goals as the country adapts to the evolving digital age.

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Interior Ministry Unveils TraffiTech-GH to Automate Traffic Enforcement and Penalize Road Violators

The Ministry of Interior has officially launched "TraffiTech-GH," an ambitious technology-driven enforcement system designed to modernize road safety and traffic management across Ghana. Announced by Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, the initiative leverages advanced surveillance cameras and automated monitoring devices to identify and penalize traffic violators without the need for constant physical police presence. This shift towards digital monitoring marks a significant step in the government's efforts to enhance road discipline and reduce the high rate of motor accidents on major highways and urban roads. Under the new system, high-definition surveillance cameras installed along major arterial roads and intersections will automatically capture and document various traffic infractions in real-time. These recorded violations are then transmitted to a centralized control room where officials verify the data for accuracy. Once a violation is confirmed, an electronic notification is sent directly to the offender’s mobile phone, providing comprehensive details of the specific offense, the location, and the associated penalty. This automated workflow is intended to streamline the enforcement process and ensure that penalties are issued promptly and transparently. TraffiTech-GH is programmed to detect over 47 specific traffic offenses, ranging from speeding and running red lights to illegal lane changes and driving without valid documentation. Beyond simple enforcement, a primary objective of the program is to minimize direct interactions between motorists and police officers on the road. By reducing face-to-face contact, the Ministry aims to curb opportunities for bribery and petty corruption while simultaneously increasing the efficiency of the Ghana Police Service, allowing personnel to focus on more complex security and investigative duties. This technological intervention comes as the administration of President John Mahama prioritizes digital infrastructure and public safety as part of its national development agenda. By creating a system where offenders are held accountable through inescapable digital evidence, the Ministry of Interior expects to see a marked improvement in driver behavior and overall compliance with road regulations. As the rollout progresses to cover more regions, TraffiTech-GH is poised to become a cornerstone of Ghana’s strategy to foster a safer and more disciplined transportation environment for all citizens.

mNotify Selects 14 Ghanaian SMEs for AI-Powered Digital Transformation Initiative
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mNotify Selects 14 Ghanaian SMEs for AI-Powered Digital Transformation Initiative

mNotify, a prominent Ghanaian technology firm, has launched its Digital Transformation Drive, selecting 14 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to participate in an intensive three-month program. Inaugurated as part of the company's 14th-anniversary celebrations, the initiative is designed to help local businesses harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and modern digital tools to enhance productivity, improve customer engagement, and drive revenue growth. The 14 beneficiaries were chosen from a competitive pool of more than 100 applicants representing various sectors of the Ghanaian economy. During the program, mNotify will provide the selected SMEs with access to its proprietary Omni platform, alongside specialized support in implementing AI and cloud technologies. CEO Ronald Tagoe has emphasized that the drive is not about following tech trends for their own sake but rather about solving specific business problems through a data-driven approach. Tagoe urged participating businesses to focus on identifying their unique operational challenges and ensuring robust record-keeping before fully transitioning to digital solutions. This focus on data management aims to address one of the primary obstacles Ghanaian SMEs face—poor data management—when attempting to digitize their operations. The success of the initiative will be closely monitored through tangible metrics, including growth in revenue, expansion of customer bases, and changes in employment figures. Addressing common fears regarding automation, the leadership at mNotify maintains an optimistic view, stating that AI should be viewed as a tool to augment human labor rather than replace it. As the three-month pilot progresses, mNotify plans to use the insights and outcomes from this cohort to refine future iterations of the program, furthering its mission to bridge the digital gap for small businesses across Ghana.

Amazon and Twitch Face Class-Action Lawsuit Over Unauthorized AI Training on Streamer Content
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Amazon and Twitch Face Class-Action Lawsuit Over Unauthorized AI Training on Streamer Content

Amazon and its subsidiary Twitch are facing a significant class-action lawsuit over allegations that the companies used millions of hours of livestreamed content to train artificial intelligence models without the creators' consent or compensation. The legal challenge, spearheaded by Connecticut-based streamer Warren Pandiscia, highlights the growing tension between tech giants and content creators in the age of generative AI. Pandiscia represents a potential class of millions of Twitch users who claim their intellectual property and personal likenesses were exploited to build proprietary AI systems. The core of the complaint centers on the unauthorized scraping and processing of video content for machine learning purposes. According to the lawsuit, Amazon improperly utilized streamers’ broadcasts to refine its AI algorithms without providing any form of compensation or seeking explicit permission from the creators. This practice, the plaintiff argues, constitutes a breach of privacy and an infringement on the rights of creators who rely on the platform for their professional livelihoods. The lawsuit seeks substantial financial damages for the affected users and a permanent injunction to prevent Amazon from continuing these data collection practices without a more robust consent framework. In response to mounting concerns over data usage, Twitch introduced an opt-out feature in August, allowing users to choose whether their content can be used for AI training. However, the lawsuit contends that this measure is insufficient, noting that content may still be utilized in specific scenarios even after a user has opted out. Further complicating the company's defense, Twitch’s Chief Product Officer has reportedly acknowledged uncertainty regarding the exact dates when data collection for AI training first began. While the platform has provided guidance for users to disable AI training features within their account settings, critics argue that the current system places an unfair burden on the creators to protect their own data. This legal battle underscores a broader global debate regarding the ethics and legality of using user-generated content to train large-scale AI models. As Amazon and Twitch navigate this litigation, the outcome could set a significant precedent for the tech industry, potentially forcing platforms to rethink how they handle creator data and copyright in the era of automation. For now, streamers are being urged to review their privacy settings as the case moves forward in the Connecticut court system, potentially reshaping the future relationship between digital platforms and the creators who fuel them.

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs Works with National Signals Bureau to Resolve Passport Portal Outage

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has announced a temporary suspension of services on the national online passport application portal due to significant technical challenges. The outage affects the official website, passport.mfa.gov.gh, which serves as the primary gateway for Ghanaians both at home and in the diaspora to apply for or renew their travel documents. In a statement confirming the disruption, the Ministry noted that its technical teams are working around the clock to restore the system to full functionality. To address the underlying issues, the Ministry’s technical department is collaborating closely with the National Signals Bureau (NSB). While the specific nature of the technical fault—whether it involves hardware failure, software glitches, or a security-related intervention—has not been publicly disclosed, the involvement of the NSB highlights the critical nature of the digital infrastructure underpinning the passport issuance process. The Ministry has expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to the public, particularly those with urgent travel needs or pending appointments at various Passport Application Centers (PACs). This disruption comes at a time when the government is intensifying efforts to digitize public services to reduce human interference and improve efficiency. The online portal was designed to streamline the application process, allowing users to pay fees through mobile money or bank cards and book biometric capture appointments online. The current downtime effectively halts this streamlined workflow, potentially creating a backlog of applications that the Ministry will need to address once the system is restored. As of the latest update, no specific timeline has been provided for when the portal will be fully operational. The Ministry has assured the general public that updates will be provided as soon as progress is made. In the interim, applicants are advised to monitor the Ministry’s official communication channels for further instructions. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges of maintaining robust digital infrastructure as Ghana continues its digital transformation journey under the leadership of President John Mahama.

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Cyber Security Authority Cautions Journalists Against Exposing Vulnerabilities During National Training

Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has called on media practitioners to exercise heightened caution and professional responsibility when reporting on cybercrime and digital vulnerabilities. Speaking at a specialized training session for journalists, the CSA highlighted the delicate balance between the public’s right to information and the requirements of national security. The authority warned that the premature or unverified disclosure of technical flaws could inadvertently provide a roadmap for cybercriminals, potentially leading to more frequent and damaging attacks on both public and private digital infrastructure. Alex Awere-Kyere, Senior Manager at the CSA, spearheaded the session as part of the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project. He emphasized that while the media is a crucial partner in the fight against digital threats, inaccurate or sensationalized reporting can disrupt sensitive ongoing investigations. Awere-Kyere urged journalists to avoid publishing unverified claims related to cybercrime, noting that such actions not only aid malicious actors but can also compromise the integrity of evidence being gathered by law enforcement agencies. The training initiative specifically aims to enhance the technical understanding of journalists, particularly those working within community media who are often the first to report on local incidents. By equipping media practitioners with a better grasp of cybersecurity fundamentals, the CSA hopes to foster a more informed narrative that prioritizes accuracy over speed. Awere-Kyere reiterated that the media's primary role in this sector should be to educate the public on safety measures and preventive protocols rather than inadvertently exposing the vulnerabilities of the nation’s digital systems. As Ghana continues its digital transformation journey under the current administration of President John Mahama, the security of digital platforms has become a matter of paramount national concern. The CSA’s outreach to the media underscores a broader strategy to create a resilient cybersecurity ecosystem through public-private collaboration. Moving forward, the authority plans to maintain these educational engagements, ensuring that as the country’s digital footprint grows, the journalists tasked with reporting on it remain a pillar of national security awareness.

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Meta Engages in Settlement Talks with US States Over Youth Social Media Addiction Lawsuit

Meta Platforms is reportedly in discussions with several US state attorneys general to reach a mid-trial settlement over allegations that its core social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram, were intentionally designed to be addictive to young users. The legal action, which involves 29 states, represents one of the most significant legal challenges to date concerning the impact of social media algorithms on the mental health and well-being of minors. These discussions are taking place even as a federal court trial remains active, signaling a potential shift in the tech giant's strategy to resolve the high-stakes litigation outside of a final court verdict. The lawsuit centers on the claim that Meta's platforms utilize features that exploit the psychological vulnerabilities of children and teenagers to maximize engagement, leading to what critics and state officials describe as a crisis of youth mental health. Beyond the allegations of addictive design, the states argue that Meta has violated both state and federal laws regarding the privacy of children. Attorneys general have contended that the company was aware of the harms its products caused but prioritized profit and user growth over the safety and development of its youngest users. Throughout the legal proceedings, Meta has steadfastly denied these allegations, asserting its commitment to protecting children online. The company maintains that it has developed and implemented numerous tools and features designed to provide parents with greater control and to limit the exposure of minors to harmful content. Meta’s defense emphasizes that social media addiction is a complex societal issue and that its platforms offer vital spaces for connection and community. However, the pressure of a public trial and the potential for significant financial penalties appear to have brought the company to the negotiating table. Should a settlement be reached, it could set a major precedent for how social media companies are regulated and held accountable for their impact on younger populations globally. For digital regulators and parents in Ghana, where social media penetration continues to grow rapidly, the outcome of this US-based case will likely influence future safety standards and legislative frameworks regarding Big Tech. As the trial continues in the interim, observers are watching closely to see if Meta will commit to substantive changes in its algorithmic design as part of any final agreement.

Telecel Ghana Partners with Whalebone to Launch SecureNet Cybersecurity for Mobile Users
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Telecel Ghana Partners with Whalebone to Launch SecureNet Cybersecurity for Mobile Users

Telecel Ghana has announced a strategic partnership with global cybersecurity firm Whalebone to introduce SecureNet, a robust network-level security service designed to protect mobile customers from a growing array of digital threats. Launched at a time when cybercrime is on the rise across the continent, SecureNet aims to safeguard users against phishing attempts, malware, and other malicious online content. This initiative marks a significant step in the telecommunications provider's efforts to ensure a safer browsing experience for its subscribers within Ghana's rapidly evolving digital landscape. Unlike traditional security solutions that require users to download and update specialized software, SecureNet operates directly at the network level. This means that protection is seamless and universal across all devices connected to the Telecel network, without the need for manual installations or complex configurations. The service provides real-time monitoring and automatically blocks access to harmful websites and suspicious scam links, effectively creating a first line of defense before a threat can reach the user's mobile device. Aneth Muga, Telecel Ghana’s Director of Consumer Business, highlighted the urgency of this intervention, noting that as connectivity increases, so does the vulnerability of users to sophisticated cyberattacks. She emphasized that the company’s priority is to provide a secure environment where customers can navigate the internet with peace of mind. By reducing the risks associated with online transactions and browsing, Telecel aims to foster greater consumer confidence in digital services, which is essential for the sustained growth of Ghana’s digital economy. The service is being rolled out with various subscription options to accommodate different user needs and budgets. This flexibility ensures that security is accessible to a wide demographic, from casual browsers to heavy data users. As digital adoption continues to accelerate, initiatives like SecureNet are expected to play a critical role in mitigating the impact of cybercrime and protecting the integrity of personal data for millions of Ghanaians.

MTN Ghana Equips Media and Civil Society with Essential Artificial Intelligence Training and Ethical Guidelines
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MTN Ghana Equips Media and Civil Society with Essential Artificial Intelligence Training and Ethical Guidelines

On August 24, 2026, MTN Ghana spearheaded a comprehensive training workshop designed to empower members of the media and civil society organizations (CSOs) with the skills needed to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the transformative potential of AI in Ghana's information ecosystem and the urgent need for professional stakeholders to use these tools responsibly. By bringing together journalists and advocates, the telecommunications giant aimed to bridge the gap between technical innovation and ethical application. Led by industry experts Samuel Adranyi and Kwame Manu, the session delved into the practical implications of AI technology, offering hands-on demonstrations with popular tools such as ChatGPT. The facilitators emphasized that while AI can significantly enhance productivity and creative output, it must be approached with a critical eye. A major focus of the training was the imperative of data privacy and security; participants were strongly cautioned against inputting confidential or sensitive information into public AI systems, as these platforms often store and process user data in ways that could compromise privacy. Beyond technical operation, the workshop addressed the ethical risks associated with automated content generation. Experts highlighted the dangers of AI hallucinations and the potential for the spread of misinformation if AI-generated text is not rigorously verified by human editors. The training underscored that AI should be viewed as a collaborative tool rather than a replacement for human judgment. For media professionals especially, the message was clear: maintaining journalistic integrity requires a human-in-the-loop approach to ensure accuracy and accountability in every story published. This training session marks a proactive step by MTN Ghana to foster a tech-savvy and ethically grounded professional class in the country. As AI continues to integrate into various sectors of the Ghanaian economy, such capacity-building efforts are vital for ensuring that technological advancement does not come at the cost of security or public trust. Moving forward, the participants are expected to act as ambassadors for responsible AI use, championing best practices within their respective organizations to safeguard the digital future of the nation.