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.

Ghana’s National AI Strategy Threatened by Persistent Fibre Optic Cable Damage
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Ghana’s National AI Strategy Threatened by Persistent Fibre Optic Cable Damage

Ghana’s ambitious roadmap to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) for national development is facing a critical bottleneck as frequent damage to fibre optic cables threatens the country's digital foundation. The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, a cornerstone of the President John Mahama administration’s vision for economic modernization, identifies healthcare, agriculture, and education as primary sectors for AI-driven transformation. However, experts warn that the fragility of the nation's connectivity infrastructure could derail these high-tech goals, as reliable high-speed internet access is the essential prerequisite for any large-scale AI deployment. The economic impact of these infrastructure failures is staggering, with data indicating that telecommunications operators in Ghana have spent over $69 million on fibre optic repairs over the last five years alone. This significant expenditure represents a major missed opportunity, as these funds have been diverted from critical network expansion and the development of dedicated AI infrastructure. Beyond the direct financial costs, the frequent outages caused by cable cuts disrupt both public services and private enterprise, creating a volatile digital environment that discourages the long-term investment required to sustain a robust AI ecosystem. Addressing this challenge requires a strategic shift in how Ghana manages its physical and digital development. Stakeholders are increasingly advocating for a "Dig Once Policy," which would require closer coordination between road contractors, utility providers, and telecommunications firms to prevent accidental cable damage during construction. By aligning physical infrastructure projects with digital needs, the government aims to create a more resilient backbone for the economy. Successfully implementing such policies will be vital for Ghana to protect its investments and ensure that its AI ambitions are supported by a stable, reliable connectivity network.

Getty Images A posed scene from a Japanese office, with three workers having a meeting
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Japanese Firms Lag Behind Global Peers in AI Adoption Despite Pressing Labor Shortages

Japan is currently grappling with a severe demographic crisis and acute labor shortages, yet the nation's corporate sector remains surprisingly hesitant to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI). While other global powers are rapidly integrating AI to bolster efficiency, recent data reveals a significant digital divide. Despite the urgent need for productivity gains to offset a shrinking workforce, only a small fraction of Japanese workers are currently utilizing AI technologies, trailing far behind their counterparts in the West. This hesitation marks a critical juncture for the world's fourth-largest economy as it seeks to maintain its industrial edge. Statistical comparisons highlight the extent of this lag. Currently, only about 8.4% of Japanese workers use AI in their professional lives—a figure that stands in stark contrast to the 50% utilization rate in the United States and 32% in the United Kingdom. This reluctance is deeply rooted in a conservative corporate culture that prioritizes stability over innovation. In Japan, there is a notably high intolerance for error and a pervasive fear of reputational damage, which often prevents companies from experimenting with nascent technologies that might produce imperfect results in the short term. Consequently, AI implementation in Japanese firms is largely restricted to low-risk, administrative tasks rather than high-impact operational changes. This cautious approach is further exacerbated by a significant shortage of tech-savvy employees capable of navigating and deploying complex AI systems. While many Japanese businesses recognize the theoretical benefits of automation, the practical execution is hindered by a lack of internal expertise and a rigid hierarchy that often resists the disruptive nature of digital transformation. Furthermore, the traditional 'lifetime employment' model and consensus-based decision-making processes can slow the adoption of technologies that require rapid iteration and organizational flexibility. The Japanese government has begun intervening through legislative measures and incentives designed to stimulate AI integration across various sectors to address these bottlenecks. However, the reality on the ground reflects a persistent struggle between necessary modernization and traditional business practices. As Japan's demographic challenges intensify and the working-age population continues to decline, the continued reluctance to fully embrace AI could significantly impede the nation's ability to achieve essential productivity gains, potentially affecting its long-term economic competitiveness on the global stage.

Dr. Samuel Boateng Launches 'Beyond Breach' to Address AI Governance and Cybersecurity Risks
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Dr. Samuel Boateng Launches 'Beyond Breach' to Address AI Governance and Cybersecurity Risks

Dr. Samuel Boateng has officially launched his latest publication, "Beyond Breach: Where AI Meets Governance," marking a significant contribution to the discourse on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. This book serves as the first installment of an ambitious five-part series dedicated to exploring the intersection of technological innovation and regulatory oversight. As organizations globally rush to integrate AI into their operations, Dr. Boateng’s work arrives at a critical juncture, offering a strategic roadmap for navigating the complexities of modern digital environments and ensuring that innovation does not outpace safety. The book was born out of the author’s observations regarding the rapid pace of AI development and the lingering questions surrounding accountability. Dr. Boateng highlights the urgent need for robust governance frameworks that can keep pace with technological evolution while mitigating potential risks. By addressing the foundational principles of AI governance, the text provides actionable insights for executives, policymakers, and IT professionals who are tasked with overseeing the ethical and secure implementation of AI systems within their respective organizations. "Beyond Breach" goes beyond theoretical discussions, offering practical guidance on risk management and the identification of emerging cybersecurity threats. Dr. Boateng emphasizes that AI adoption should not happen in a vacuum; instead, it must be supported by a culture of transparency and proactive defense. The volume covers a wide range of topics, including the mitigation of data breaches and the establishment of clear lines of responsibility for AI-driven outcomes, ensuring that stakeholders are well-equipped to handle the unique challenges posed by the fourth industrial revolution. Looking ahead, this publication sets the stage for the remaining four volumes in the series, which are expected to further delve into specialized areas of cybersecurity and digital policy. As Ghana continues to advance its digital transformation agenda, resources like "Beyond Breach" are essential for building a resilient national infrastructure. The book serves as a call to action for both public and private sector leaders to prioritize governance as an enabler—rather than a hindrance—to sustainable and secure technological progress.

Spotify to Introduce 'AI Persona' Badge for AI-Generated Music to Ensure Listener Transparency
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Spotify to Introduce 'AI Persona' Badge for AI-Generated Music to Ensure Listener Transparency

Spotify is set to revolutionize listener transparency by introducing a new "AI Persona" badge designed to explicitly label AI-generated artists on its platform. This initiative, scheduled to begin appearing on select profiles in mid-September, responds to growing concerns from users who feel misled when discovering that the music they enjoy was created by artificial intelligence rather than human artists. The badge aims to provide a clear distinction between human creativity and algorithmic output, ensuring that fans can make informed choices about the content they consume. The rollout marks a significant step in the streaming giant's efforts to manage the presence of non-human entities in the digital music space. The move comes amid a wave of feedback from both musicians and fans who emphasize that emotional connection and authenticity remain at the heart of the musical experience. Industry observers, including music enthusiasts like Alex Winn and Leon Keenan, have welcomed the change, noting that the "human element" is what often defines a listener’s bond with a song. By tagging AI identities, Spotify is addressing a significant ethical gap in the digital streaming era where "virtual" artists have become increasingly common, often appearing alongside human creators without any clear distinction or disclosure regarding their synthetic origins. Technically, the AI Persona badge will be visible on artist profiles and integrated into search results to facilitate easier identification. There are varying reports on how this label will affect the platform’s recommendation algorithms; while some indications suggest the badge will serve primarily as a transparency tool, other sources indicate that identified AI personas may be removed or deprioritized in certain recommendation feeds to prioritize human-led content. Furthermore, Spotify is offering a disclosure mechanism for human artists who use AI as a tool in their creative process, allowing for a nuanced distinction between AI-assisted and purely AI-generated music. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the regulation and labeling of artificial intelligence have become central themes in technological discourse. This initiative by Spotify sets a precedent for other streaming services and digital platforms to adopt similar transparency standards across the industry. By flagging AI personas, Spotify is not only protecting the integrity of human artistry but also shaping the future of how artificial intelligence is integrated into the global creative economy, ensuring that technology serves as a transparent tool rather than a deceptive replacement for human talent.

Minister Sam George Champions Digital Sovereignty and Local Innovation in Ghana's Tech Sector
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Minister Sam George Champions Digital Sovereignty and Local Innovation in Ghana's Tech Sector

Ghana is pivoting its technology strategy toward digital ownership as the government calls for a transition from consuming foreign technology to producing and exporting indigenous solutions. Samuel Nartey George, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, has emphasized that the next phase of the nation’s digital evolution must be rooted in home-grown innovation. Speaking at a recent fintech initiative launch, the Minister underscored the importance of empowering young Ghanaian developers to tackle local challenges with domestic tools, particularly in the financial sector where trust and security are paramount. To support this shift, Minister Sam George is advocating for a robust regulatory framework that balances the need for rapid innovation with stringent consumer protection. The goal is to create a secure environment where local startups can compete and thrive, ensuring that the technology used in Ghana’s financial systems is both locally developed and internationally competitive. By fostering an ecosystem that prioritizes local capacity, the government aims to ensure that technology serves as a primary driver for job creation and sustainable economic opportunity for all citizens. Beyond fintech, the national discourse on digitalization is increasingly focusing on broader digital sovereignty. Experts argue that while foreign technology was essential for establishing Ghana's initial digital infrastructure, the current focus must shift to ensuring that government investments directly benefit the domestic ICT sector. This includes implementing policies that encourage Ghanaian companies to lead government-funded projects, thereby retaining knowledge, data, and economic value within the country's borders. The push for local digital content is seen as a vital step in reducing dependency on external vendors and securing the nation's digital future. Looking ahead, the Mahama administration is prioritizing collaboration between the government, academic institutions, and private industry to bridge existing skill gaps and fuel research. By measuring the success of digitalization not just by the adoption of tools, but by the growth of local production and expertise, Ghana seeks to establish itself as a regional technology hub. This comprehensive approach aims to build a digitally sovereign nation that is capable of building, managing, and exporting its own technological advancements to the rest of the world.

Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah Urges Mobile Money Agents to Evolve into Community Financial Hubs
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Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah Urges Mobile Money Agents to Evolve into Community Financial Hubs

Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah, the CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, has called for a significant shift in the operational model of mobile money agents across the country. Speaking at the 2026 MOMAG Agent Conference in Accra, Owusu-Ankomah stressed that as Ghana’s digital economy matures under the administration of President John Mahama, the traditional role of agents must transcend simple transaction handling. She argued that for the industry to remain sustainable and impactful, agents must transition from being mere facilitators of cash-in and cash-out services to becoming comprehensive community financial-service hubs. The push for this evolution comes at a time when digital financial services are becoming the backbone of Ghana's economic infrastructure. Owusu-Ankomah highlighted that the digital financial ecosystem is rapidly expanding, requiring a more sophisticated approach to service delivery at the grassroots level. By transforming into financial hubs, agents would be positioned to offer a broader range of services beyond currency exchange, potentially including insurance products, micro-loans, and digital literacy support. This shift is intended to deepen financial inclusion, ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to a full suite of modern banking tools. Looking forward, the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications envisions a future where these agents serve as the primary point of contact for financial education and digital integration. This strategic pivot is expected to bolster the resilience of the mobile money sector while supporting the government's broader digitalization agenda. As the digital landscape continues to change, the success of this transition will depend on continuous training and the adoption of new technologies by agents, ultimately securing their relevance in an increasingly cashless society and ensuring they remain a trusted pillar within their respective communities.

Mohammed Adam Sukparu Urges Civil Service IT Professionals to Take Strategic Lead in Ghana's Digital Transformation
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Mohammed Adam Sukparu Urges Civil Service IT Professionals to Take Strategic Lead in Ghana's Digital Transformation

Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Mohammed Adam Sukparu, has called on Information Technology (IT) and Information Management professionals within Ghana’s Civil Service to transition from traditional support roles to more strategic, policy-driven functions. Speaking at the 7th General Meeting of the Information Technology and Information Management Association (ITIMA), the Deputy Minister emphasized that the success of the nation’s digital transformation journey relies on the ability of technical experts to actively influence policy design and improve public service delivery. He noted that as the country advances, IT professionals must move beyond technical maintenance and become central to the strategic governance process. Central to this evolution is the effective management of government data and the integration of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI). Sukparu highlighted that the rise of AI and sophisticated data analytics necessitates a higher standard of information management to ensure data integrity and security. He argued that IT professionals are the primary custodians of the information required for evidence-based decision-making. By ensuring that government data is accurate and accessible, these professionals can help create more efficient and transparent public services that directly benefit the citizen. While pointing to significant investments in Ghana’s digital infrastructure and the establishment of robust digital policies, the Deputy Minister warned that hardware and connectivity are only part of the equation. He stressed the urgent need for continuous professional development and skills upgrading to keep pace with rapid global technological shifts. Sukparu called for stronger partnerships and collaborations among IT professionals and various institutional stakeholders to foster a culture of knowledge-sharing and collective innovation across the Civil Service to maintain responsiveness to technological changes. In his concluding remarks, the Deputy Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting digital skills and innovation within the public sector. He urged ITIMA members to maintain high ethical standards and a sense of professionalism while spearheading digital initiatives. By fostering a more collaborative and responsive technical workforce, Sukparu believes Ghana can build a more resilient digital economy. The meeting served as a vital platform for aligning the efforts of IT professionals with the broader national goal of achieving a fully digitized and efficient public administration.

Dr. Samuel Boateng Launches "Beyond Breach" to Champion AI Governance and Cybersecurity
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Dr. Samuel Boateng Launches "Beyond Breach" to Champion AI Governance and Cybersecurity

Dr. Samuel Boateng has officially launched his latest publication, "Beyond Breach: Where AI Meets Governance," marking a significant milestone in the intellectual discourse surrounding emerging technologies in Ghana. As the first volume in an ambitious five-part series dedicated to Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance and cybersecurity, the book arrives at a critical juncture where the integration of AI into daily operations is outpacing the development of regulatory frameworks. The work serves as a foundational guide for navigating the complex digital landscape that defines the modern era and aims to provide clarity in an increasingly automated world. The motivation for the book stems from Dr. Boateng’s observations regarding the lack of clear accountability in AI-driven outcomes. As AI technologies continue to evolve at a breakneck speed, the author emphasizes that simply adopting these tools is insufficient without a robust governance framework to manage the inherent risks. "Beyond Breach" specifically addresses the practicalities of AI adoption, providing a structured approach for individuals and organizations to safeguard their data and maintain ethical standards while leveraging technological advancements. Inspired by the need for transparency, Boateng highlights that governance must be proactive rather than reactive. Designed as a practical resource for high-level decision-makers, the book offers in-depth guidance for executives and policymakers who are often tasked with implementing AI strategies without a comprehensive roadmap. Key areas of focus include the foundations of AI governance, effective risk management strategies, and the identification of evolving cybersecurity threats. By bridging the gap between technical complexity and administrative oversight, Dr. Boateng provides a blueprint for sustainable digital transformation that prioritizes security and public trust. The text is tailored to help leaders understand the nuances of the digital tools they deploy within their organizations. As Ghana continues to position itself as a burgeoning tech hub in West Africa, resources like Dr. Boateng’s series are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping national policy and corporate strategy. The subsequent four volumes in the series are anticipated to delve deeper into specialized aspects of cybersecurity, ensuring that Ghanaian organizations remain resilient against global digital threats. The launch of this book underscores a growing local expertise capable of addressing the global challenges posed by the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, providing a vital roadmap for the future of tech governance in the country.

Mr Alex Awere -Kyere, Senior Manager CII, CSA
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Cyber Security Authority Urges Public to Use 292 Hotline to Combat Irreversible Online Fraud

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued a critical advisory to the Ghanaian public, urging citizens to utilize the 292 short code to verify the legitimacy of online transactions before transferring funds. This warning comes amid rising concerns over digital financial crimes, where Senior Manager Alex Awere-Kyere highlighted that once money is withdrawn by fraudsters, the chances of recovery are virtually non-existent. The initiative aims to provide a proactive shield against the increasing sophistication of cyber-enabled financial fraud by encouraging pre-transaction verification. Speaking at a press engagement in Accra, Awere-Kyere explained that while the CSA collaborates closely with various security agencies to investigate fraudulent activities, they cannot guarantee the restitution of funds once they have been liquidated by criminals. The engagement was part of the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project, an initiative designed to equip over 100 journalists with the necessary skills for accurate and responsible cybersecurity reporting. This training underscores the vital role the media plays in educating the public on safe digital practices and the legal protections available. The discussion also focused on the legal framework provided by the Cybersecurity Act, 2020. This legislation empowers the sector minister to designate and protect critical information infrastructure essential to national security and the economy. Furthermore, the CSA cautioned media practitioners against the dissemination of unverified claims or propaganda originating from cybercriminals. Officials warned that publishing such information without verification can inadvertently facilitate malicious activities and lend undue credibility to criminal enterprises. As Ghana continues to expand its digital economy, the CSA maintains that public vigilance is the first line of defense. Citizens are encouraged to treat the 292 hotline as a standard safety check for any transaction that appears suspicious. By fostering a culture of verification and professional reporting, the authority aims to mitigate the impact of cyber threats and ensure a more secure digital environment for all Ghanaians.

Samsung Opens Pre-Orders for Galaxy Z Fold8 in Ghana, Debuting Lightest Foldable Design with Advanced AI
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Samsung Opens Pre-Orders for Galaxy Z Fold8 in Ghana, Debuting Lightest Foldable Design with Advanced AI

Samsung has officially launched pre-orders for the Galaxy Z Fold8 in Ghana, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of foldable mobile technology. Following its global unveiling at the Galaxy Unpacked event on July 22, 2025, the device is now being positioned as the ultimate tool for both productivity and high-end content consumption. The Z Fold8 represents Samsung's most refined foldable to date, integrating advanced artificial intelligence with a form factor that balances portability and expansive screen real estate. A key highlight of the Galaxy Z Fold8 is the introduction of Flex Titanium technology. This innovation significantly enhances the device's durability while addressing one of the most common critiques of foldable phones: the screen crease. By utilizing these new materials, Samsung has managed to create a thinner, lighter frame that remains robust. The device features a 5.5-inch cover screen for quick, one-handed tasks and unfolds to reveal a massive 7.6-inch main display, providing a tablet-like experience for gaming, reading, and multitasking. Beyond hardware, the Galaxy Z Fold8 is heavily centered on artificial intelligence. Samsung is offering a Google AI Pro subscription as part of the pre-order package, underscoring the device's role as a hub for next-generation digital experiences. The device's optimized display ratios are specifically designed to enhance viewing for both horizontal and vertical content, making it an ideal choice for users who consume diverse media formats. Consumers in Ghana can pre-order the Galaxy Z Fold8 until August 16, 2026. Those who take advantage of this period will receive exclusive benefits, including various accessories and substantial discounts on the Galaxy Watch9. General sales and wider availability are scheduled to commence on August 17, 2026. This launch reinforces Samsung’s commitment to leading the premium smartphone segment in West Africa through continuous innovation in the foldable category.

Square Kilometre Array Observatory Unveils "Advancing Astrophysics II" to Chart Future of Global Radio Astronomy
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Square Kilometre Array Observatory Unveils "Advancing Astrophysics II" to Chart Future of Global Radio Astronomy

The Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) has announced the release of a landmark compendium titled "Advancing Astrophysics II," a comprehensive publication that outlines the vast scientific potential of the world’s most advanced radio telescopes. This massive collaborative effort features contributions from more than 1,500 scientists spanning 51 countries, signaling a significant milestone in international scientific cooperation. The collection of 221 peer-reviewed papers serves as a strategic roadmap for the upcoming observations and research projects that the SKA telescopes, currently under construction in Australia and South Africa, will facilitate. Professor Naomi McClure-Griffiths, the SKAO’s Chief Scientist, highlighted the remarkable expansion of the scientific community since the release of the previous volume in 2015. This growth reflects the global anticipation for the SKA telescopes, which are designed to be the most sensitive and sophisticated instruments of their kind. While construction continues on the physical infrastructure, the observatory has already begun producing initial test images, demonstrating the early capabilities of the system. The compendium is meticulously organized into six primary sections, ranging from the intricacies of star formation to the fundamental mysteries of the cosmos, providing a granular look at the discoveries that await. Beyond its scientific objectives, the SKAO is dedicated to fostering societal benefits and aligning its mission with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The project places a strong emphasis on global scientific collaboration and the sharing of knowledge across borders. Furthermore, the observatory has formally recognized the cultural and historical significance of the lands it occupies, expressing a firm commitment to respecting and involving the Indigenous peoples and cultures associated with the telescope sites in both Australia and South Africa. As the SKAO moves closer to full operational capacity, "Advancing Astrophysics II" stands as a testament to the collective ambition of the global astronomical community. By addressing crucial cosmic phenomena and providing the tools for unprecedented exploration, the observatory is poised to redefine our understanding of the universe. This publication not only prepares the groundwork for decades of discovery but also reinforces the SKAO’s role as a catalyst for innovation and a model for large-scale international research initiatives.

Cyber Security Authority Warns of Rising Threats to Ghana's Critical Information Infrastructure
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Cyber Security Authority Warns of Rising Threats to Ghana's Critical Information Infrastructure

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) of Ghana has issued a stern warning regarding the escalating threats facing the nation's Critical Information Infrastructure (CII). During a recent cyber capacity-building project in Accra, Alex Awere-Kyere, Senior Manager at the CSA, identified data infiltration, supply chain attacks, and the rise of AI-driven deepfakes as primary concerns. These sophisticated methods are increasingly being deployed by attackers to target systems that form the backbone of Ghana’s essential services, requiring a heightened state of national alertness and a multi-sectoral response. The potential impact of these cyber threats spans several vital sectors, including energy, finance, health, telecommunications, transport, and various government digital platforms. Mr. Awere-Kyere emphasized that any breach in these areas could lead to significant disruptions in public services and compromise national security. The evolving nature of these threats suggests that traditional technical solutions alone are no longer sufficient; instead, the CSA is calling for an integrated approach to infrastructure protection that moves beyond technical firewalls to include broader institutional resilience. A central theme of the CSA’s engagement was the indispensable role of the media in strengthening Ghana’s cybersecurity landscape. Journalists were urged to enhance their skills in identifying misinformation and verifying sources, especially as AI-powered deepfakes become more prevalent and harder to distinguish from authentic content. The CSA highlighted that media professionals have a dual responsibility: to provide the public with accurate information and awareness while balancing the need for transparency with the sensitivities of national security. To address these challenges, the CSA is focusing on continuous capacity building and the establishment of best practices for reporting on cybersecurity incidents. Participants at the training sessions were encouraged to adopt rigorous cybersecurity protocols and to handle sensitive information with extreme care. By fostering a collaborative relationship between the state's security apparatus and the media, the authority aims to create a more resilient digital environment capable of withstanding the complexities of modern cyber warfare.