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.

OpenAI and Anthropic CEOs Summoned to Australian Senate Inquiry Following Medicare Database Breach
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OpenAI and Anthropic CEOs Summoned to Australian Senate Inquiry Following Medicare Database Breach

The Australian government has summoned OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei to testify before a Senate inquiry following a high-profile security incident involving the country's Medicare database. The probe was triggered after an OpenAI bot successfully accessed the sensitive national health database, sparking intense scrutiny over how artificial intelligence systems interact with government infrastructure. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned the breach as "unacceptable," signaling that the incident may serve as a catalyst for significantly stricter AI regulations within the country. The inquiry, which will feature public hearings in Canberra, is being led by Senator Sarah Hanson-Young and focuses on the broader impacts of AI on Australian communities and industries. While OpenAI has maintained that the breach was unintentional and did not result in the compromise of private information, the event has raised grave concerns regarding the safety of sovereign data. Prime Minister Albanese reportedly communicated these concerns directly to Sam Altman, emphasizing the potential risks associated with autonomous bots accessing protected government systems. Anthropic, a major competitor in the AI space, has also been called to the inquiry as lawmakers seek to understand the systemic risks posed by the industry's rapid expansion. The hearings are expected to delve into the operation of AI data centers and the ethical implications of deploying advanced models in sensitive sectors. By summoning the leadership of the world's most prominent AI firms, the Australian Senate aims to establish a clear framework for accountability and transparency that could influence international standards for AI oversight. This development marks a significant moment in the global effort to regulate emerging technologies. For OpenAI and Anthropic, the proceedings represent a critical test of their ability to manage security risks and navigate the regulatory demands of foreign governments. As the inquiry unfolds, the findings are likely to shape future legislation aimed at ensuring AI systems do not undermine national security or public trust in digital institutions.

A photograph of Prof Kwofie speaking at a podium, holding a microphone and a book. He is dressed in a vibrant red and yellow traditional Ghanaian shirt and appears to be giving a presentation at a conference or workshop.
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Prof. Samuel Kojo Kwofie Advocates for Indigenous Knowledge in AI Development at Ghana International Book Fair

Prof. Samuel Kojo Kwofie, Director of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology at the University of Ghana, has issued a compelling call for publishers and technology developers to integrate indigenous knowledge systems into Artificial Intelligence (AI) training datasets. Speaking at the launch of the book "The Book Industry Programme in Ghana: From Dream to Reality and Beyond" during the 23rd Ghana International Book Fair in September 2026, Prof. Kwofie emphasized that such integration is vital for fostering culturally inclusive development. By embedding local context into AI models, the academic argues that Ghana and Africa can effectively "decolonize" AI, ensuring that digital advancements reflect the continent's unique heritage and values rather than relying solely on Western-centric data. While acknowledging the transformative efficiency and capabilities that AI brings to the publishing industry, Prof. Kwofie cautioned against the total displacement of human agency. He maintained that while AI can streamline processes and enhance productivity, it must not replace human creativity or the ethical standards that underpin the literary world. Instead, he advocated for a balanced approach where technological innovation complements local capacities, allowing for a more robust and representative publishing ecosystem that serves both local and global audiences. The event also served to spotlight the evolution of professional publishing in the country. The featured book, authored by I.K. Appiah, documents nearly four decades of achievements within Ghana’s Publishing Studies Programme. Prof. Kwofie highlighted the publication as a critical resource for the industry, urging the youth to view publishing studies as a viable and prestigious educational path. He noted that as digital technologies continue to reshape how content is accessed and shared, there is a growing need for skilled professionals who can navigate the intersection of traditional storytelling and modern digital tools. Looking ahead, the call to action suggests a shift in how Ghanaian intellectual property is managed in the age of automation. By prioritizing indigenous knowledge in AI training, the Ghanaian publishing industry aims to secure its relevance in a globalized digital market. This initiative not only protects cultural integrity but also positions Ghana as a proactive participant in the global technological landscape, ensuring that the future of African literature is powered by both cutting-edge technology and deep-rooted local wisdom.

TikTok to Pay $100 Million to Alabama to Settle Youth Mental Health and Digital Addiction Lawsuit
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TikTok to Pay $100 Million to Alabama to Settle Youth Mental Health and Digital Addiction Lawsuit

TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, have agreed to pay a minimum of $100 million to the state of Alabama to settle a landmark lawsuit. The legal action alleged that the social media platform utilized addictive features specifically designed to hook young users, leading to significant harm to their mental health. Finalized just before a scheduled jury trial, the agreement marks TikTok's first major settlement with a U.S. state over user safety concerns and sets a potential precedent for state-level regulatory enforcement against global tech giants. Under the terms of the settlement, TikTok will make an initial $100 million payment within 45 days, which Alabama officials intend to use to fund youth mental health services. The total financial obligation could escalate to as much as $300 million if specific future conditions regarding the platform's operations are not met. Beyond the monetary penalties, the platform must implement rigorous operational changes for teen accounts. These include a mandatory two-hour daily usage limit, blocking access during overnight hours, and introducing forced pauses during continuous scrolling to mitigate the risks of digital addiction. In addition to usage limits, TikTok is required to enhance its age verification measures and ensure that teen accounts are set to private by default. While TikTok defended its existing safety initiatives and emphasized its commitment to user security, Alabama officials hailed the resolution as a significant victory for families. Legal experts view this settlement as a pivotal moment in tech regulation, noting that the framework established in Alabama mirrors broader trends of state-level enforcement aimed at holding social media platforms accountable for their psychological impact on younger generations.

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Apple Ordered to Pay $5.7 Billion Following Haptic Technology Patent Infringement Verdict

A federal jury has ordered tech giant Apple to pay $5.7 billion in damages to Taction Technology, an audio-focused firm, after finding that Apple infringed upon patents related to haptic systems. The legal dispute centers on technology used to provide tactile feedback and enhance device responsiveness, which is integral to the user experience in flagship products such as the iPhone and Apple Watch. While the jury found that Apple had utilized Taction’s intellectual property without authorization, it notably determined that the infringement was not willful, a distinction that often impacts the final calculation of damages and potential penalties. The legal battle began in 2021 when Taction Technology filed a complaint accusing Apple of violating two patents issued in 2020. The journey to this multi-billion dollar verdict was complex; an initial ruling had actually favored Apple, concluding that the company had not infringed on the patents in question. However, that decision was successfully appealed and the case was revived, leading to the trial in September 2023. Taction successfully argued that Apple’s haptic systems, which power the physical sensations users feel when interacting with their screens, were built upon Taction’s proprietary innovations. Apple has reacted strongly to the verdict, asserting its intention to contest the ruling in further legal proceedings. The company maintains that its proprietary "Taptic Engine" technology is fundamentally different from the systems patented by Taction Technology and denies any wrongdoing. Apple’s legal team is expected to argue that the $5.7 billion figure is unwarranted and that the technology used in their devices was developed independently through their own internal research and development processes. This ruling represents one of the largest patent infringement awards in history and highlights the intensifying legal tensions between global tech corporations and smaller innovation firms. Industry analysts suggest that this case could have significant implications for future technology licensing agreements and intellectual property negotiations across the consumer electronics market. As Apple prepares its appeal, the outcome remains a critical watchpoint for international supply chains and the broader landscape of patent law, signaling a potentially tougher environment for large firms facing intellectual property claims from smaller entities.

DVLA Enhances Vehicle Registration with New DVLAverify iOS App and Web Portal
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DVLA Enhances Vehicle Registration with New DVLAverify iOS App and Web Portal

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has significantly expanded its digital footprint with the official launch of the DVLAverify application for iOS devices alongside a new web-based verification platform. This strategic rollout is designed to streamline the vehicle registration process by allowing prospective owners to perform biometric identity verification remotely. By integrating these digital tools, the Authority aims to modernize its operations and reduce the necessity for physical visits to its offices for routine identity checks, representing a major shift toward more accessible public service delivery. The DVLAverify app is now available for download on the Apple App Store, specifically catering to iPhone users who require a secure and user-friendly interface for registration tasks. Recognizing the need for inclusive access, the DVLA has also introduced a corresponding web portal. This ensures that individuals without compatible smartphones or those who prefer desktop interfaces can still benefit from the biometric verification features. These platforms are engineered to verify the identity of applicants against national databases, ensuring that vehicle registrations are tied to legitimate, verified individuals and enhancing the overall security of the licensing system. Beyond the technological upgrade, the initiative is part of a broader commitment by the DVLA to provide efficient and accessible services through digital innovation. The Authority has underscored that these new platforms include built-in support options to assist applicants through the verification process, ensuring that users are not left without guidance. As Ghana continues its digital transformation journey, the introduction of DVLAverify is expected to alleviate congestion at service centers, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and offer a more seamless, modern experience for the motoring public.

A photograph showing damaged underground telecommunications infrastructure. Severed fiber optic cables with exposed multi-colored wires are visible inside black corrugated conduits within a sandy trench.
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NCA Confirms Major Voice and Data Service Outages in Northern Ghana Following Multiple Fibre Optic Cable Cuts

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has officially reported a widespread disruption of voice and data services across the northern parts of the country, affecting millions of residents and businesses. The outage is currently impacting all five northern regions—Northern, North East, Savannah, Upper East, and Upper West—as well as significant portions of the Oti Region. According to the regulator, the crisis was triggered by multiple cuts to fibre optic cables across three primary transmission corridors, effectively severing the high-speed data links that connect these areas to the national backbone.\n\nThe NCA has identified that the damage occurred simultaneously across these corridors, which has significantly hampered the network's ability to reroute traffic through redundant paths. While the authority has not yet specified the exact cause of the cuts—whether due to road construction, deliberate sabotage, or environmental degradation—the simultaneous nature of the damage suggests a major infrastructure failure. Technical teams from the affected telecommunications companies have been dispatched to the sites to begin the arduous process of splicing and repairing the damaged cables to restore connectivity as quickly as possible.\n\nThe socio-economic impact of this disruption is substantial, as the affected regions rely heavily on mobile connectivity for everything from financial transactions to healthcare coordination. Businesses that operate primarily through mobile money platforms have seen their operations grind to a halt, and individual users have reported total inability to access the internet or make critical voice calls. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the nation's digital infrastructure and the challenges of maintaining reliable connectivity in geographically expansive areas where fibre optic lines may be exposed to various physical risks.\n\nIn the interim, the NCA has assured the public that it is working closely with service providers to monitor the repair progress and prioritize the restoration of essential services. The authority is expected to conduct a full investigation into the cause of the multiple cuts once service is stabilized to prevent such a massive failure from recurring. For now, residents in Northern Ghana and the Oti Region are advised to expect intermittent service as technicians work through the night to resolve the underlying technical issues and bring the transmission corridors back online.

President Mahama and Amazon Executives Explore Strategic Broadband Partnership to Bridge Ghana's Digital Divide
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President Mahama and Amazon Executives Explore Strategic Broadband Partnership to Bridge Ghana's Digital Divide

President John Dramani Mahama has initiated high-level discussions with Amazon executives to explore a transformative partnership aimed at expanding broadband connectivity across Ghana and the wider African continent. The talks, held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, focused on leveraging Amazon’s technological expertise to bridge the digital divide. David Zapolsky, Amazon’s Senior Vice President, led the delegation, emphasizing Ghana’s strategic potential as a primary partner in the company's regional expansion of high-speed internet services. A central pillar of the proposed collaboration is the provision of high-speed internet access to underserved rural communities. By focusing on these often-overlooked areas, the initiative seeks to equalize opportunities for digital entrepreneurship and enhance the delivery of essential services. Executives noted that improved connectivity would serve as a catalyst for growth in digital education, remote healthcare, and the burgeoning e-commerce sector. This move aligns with the administration's commitment to creating a modern infrastructure that supports both social development and commercial innovation. Beyond technical infrastructure, President Mahama is positioning Ghana as a central digital hub within West Africa. This strategy is particularly significant given Ghana’s role as the host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat. By attracting major U.S. corporations like Amazon, the President aims to foster a new chapter in bilateral relations focused on trade and technology. This collaborative framework is expected to not only bring in direct investment but also create a ripple effect of technological advancement throughout the sub-region. The potential partnership is viewed as a vital step toward long-term economic growth and job creation for the nation’s youth. As Ghana continues to build its digital economy, the integration of global technological leaders is expected to accelerate the country's transition into a sophisticated tech-driven market. While specific timelines for the rollout remain under discussion, the engagement signals a strong mutual interest in establishing Ghana as a leader in Africa's digital transformation.

Cyber Security Authority Warns Jobseekers Against Sophisticated Government Recruitment Scams
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Cyber Security Authority Warns Jobseekers Against Sophisticated Government Recruitment Scams

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued an urgent warning to Ghanaian jobseekers following a surge in sophisticated recruitment scams designed to harvest personal data and extort money. These fraudulent schemes frequently involve the cloning of official government agency websites and the dissemination of false job advertisements across popular social media platforms and messaging apps. As citizens seek new employment opportunities, the CSA is urging high levels of vigilance to avoid falling victim to these increasingly convincing digital traps that leverage the branding of reputable state institutions. According to the CSA, scammers are utilizing a variety of channels, including SMS, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Telegram, to target unsuspecting individuals. These bad actors employ phishing tactics to mimic legitimate institutions, often creating look-alike websites that are nearly indistinguishable from official portals to the untrained eye. One particularly notable scam identified by the authority involves a fraudulent recruitment announcement linked to foreign security operations in the Ghana-Burkina Faso border region. Additionally, the CSA highlighted false claims suggesting the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is currently charging fees for employment, a practice that is entirely contrary to standard government recruitment protocols. The Authority has identified several key indicators that should alert jobseekers to potential fraud. These red flags include the presence of poor grammar and spelling errors in job advertisements, as well as requests for upfront payments or sensitive personal information via unofficial communication channels. To mitigate these risks, the CSA strongly advises potential applicants to verify any job offer directly with the relevant institution through its official, verified website or authorized contact numbers. Relying on third-party links shared in private messages is discouraged, as these are often the primary vectors for identity theft and financial fraud. This warning underscores the growing need for digital literacy as an essential component of the modern job search process in Ghana. The CSA continues to monitor the digital landscape for these malicious activities and encourages the public to report any suspicious online behavior or fraudulent websites to the appropriate authorities. By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and promoting direct verification, the CSA aims to protect the integrity of the national labor market and ensure that the digital space remains a safe environment for all citizens seeking legitimate employment.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (seated 2nd from right), Minister of Foreign Affairs; Hiroshi Yoshimoto (standing left), the Ambassador of Japan to Ghana; Koichi Wakata (seated 2nd from left), Japanese astronaut and Chief Technology Officer for Asia Pacific, Axiom; Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo (seated left), Vice-Chancellor, University of Ghana; Kadidja Iddrisu (seated right), Chief Director, MoFA; and other officials after the visit
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Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Announces Ghana’s First Space Institution in Partnership with Japan

Ghana is set to launch its first dedicated space institution, marking a significant milestone in the country's scientific and technological landscape. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the initiative, which is being developed with substantial support from the Japanese government. This move signals Ghana's strategic intention to join the global space community and leverage aerospace technology as a tool for national development and innovation under the administration of President John Mahama. To formalize the project, a comprehensive policy for the institution will soon be presented to the Cabinet for approval. This development follows the signing of strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Ghana and Japan, which include specific collaborations with the University of Ghana. These partnerships are designed to ensure that academic research and human capital development remain at the core of the new institution's mandate, providing a pipeline of Ghanaian experts in satellite technology and space science. The announcement was made during a high-profile dinner honoring Japanese astronaut Koichi Wakata, highlighting the strengthening diplomatic and scientific ties between the two nations. Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Yoshimoto praised Ghana's growing space program, emphasizing its vast potential for future technological advancements. The timing of this collaboration is particularly significant as Ghana and Japan prepare to celebrate major anniversaries of their bilateral relations next year. The establishment of this space institution is expected to have far-reaching implications for Ghana’s digital economy, climate monitoring capabilities, and telecommunications infrastructure. By partnering with Japan—a global leader in aerospace exploration—Ghana is positioning itself as a burgeoning hub for space research in West Africa. This initiative underscores a commitment to prioritizing high-tech sectors as catalysts for long-term economic transformation and scientific self-reliance.

Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority Introduces Biometric DVLAverify App for iOS and Web Registration
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Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority Introduces Biometric DVLAverify App for iOS and Web Registration

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has officially introduced the DVLAverify application for iOS devices and a corresponding web-based platform to streamline the vehicle registration process in Ghana. This development marks a significant step in the authority’s digital transformation agenda, providing a more convenient method for prospective vehicle owners to verify their identity. By integrating remote biometric identity verification, the new system aims to enhance service accessibility and reduce the need for physical visits to DVLA offices, thereby improving overall operational efficiency. The DVLAverify app is currently available for download on the Apple App Store, catering to iPhone users who need to complete biometric authentication as part of the vehicle registration cycle. For users without compatible iOS smartphones, the authority has launched a dedicated web portal that offers the same verification services. This multi-platform approach ensures that all citizens, regardless of their device preference, can benefit from the digitized verification process, making the system more inclusive and user-friendly. In addition to facilitating remote verification, the DVLA has incorporated various support options within both the mobile app and the web portal to assist applicants throughout the process. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce the administrative burden on both the authority and the public by eliminating long queues and minimizing manual documentation errors. The biometric feature also adds an essential layer of security, ensuring that vehicle registrations are tied to verified identities, which helps in curbing fraudulent activities within the transport sector. As the DVLA continues to modernize its operations, the rollout of DVLAverify represents a broader commitment to utilizing technology for better public service delivery. The authority has indicated that these digital tools will undergo continuous refinement to meet the evolving needs of motorists and vehicle owners across the country. This shift toward digital-first solutions aligns with national efforts to digitize administrative processes, setting a precedent for other government agencies to adopt similar technological innovations for enhanced transparency and convenience.

Minister Samuel George and NCA Coordinate Emergency Repairs Following Triple Fibre Cuts in Northern Ghana
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Minister Samuel George and NCA Coordinate Emergency Repairs Following Triple Fibre Cuts in Northern Ghana

The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has reported a massive disruption in telecommunications services across the five northern regions and parts of the Oti Region. The outage, which began on September 26, was triggered by triple fibre cuts on critical transmission routes, severely impacting both voice and data connectivity for millions of residents. The National Communications Authority (NCA) confirmed that the damage has affected 2G, 3G, and 4G networks, leaving many communities without reliable means of communication. Technical assessments identify the specific points of failure along three key transmission routes: Kintampo-Buipe, Wakawaka-Bamboi, and Hohoe-Jasikan. According to the Minister, the scale of the disruption is significant, impacting a combined total of 694 sites operating on 2G and 3G technology, as well as 521 sites providing 4G LTE services. These routes serve as the backbone for connectivity in the northern belt of the country, and their simultaneous failure has created a complex challenge for network stability. In response to the crisis, a multi-agency restoration effort is currently underway. Technical teams from MTN Ghana, Telecel Ghana, and the National Information Technology Agency (NITA) have been deployed to the affected sites to identify the exact locations of the cuts and initiate repairs. The NCA is actively monitoring these restoration efforts to ensure that service is returned to the public as quickly as possible. Minister Sam George has offered an apology to residents for the disruptions, assuring the public that restoration work is being treated with the highest priority. While the cause of the cuts has not been officially confirmed, such incidents are frequently linked to road construction or accidental damage during excavation works. This widespread outage highlights the vulnerability of the nation's digital infrastructure and the necessity for robust protection of transmission lines. As technical teams work around the clock, the NCA and the Ministry have pledged to provide further updates until full service is restored to all affected subscribers across the Northern and Oti regions.

Cyber Security Authority Warns Jobseekers of Rising Recruitment Scams and Website Cloning
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Cyber Security Authority Warns Jobseekers of Rising Recruitment Scams and Website Cloning

Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued an urgent public alert warning jobseekers about an increase in sophisticated recruitment scams targeting unsuspecting Ghanaians. Fraudsters are reportedly cloning official government websites and leveraging popular communication platforms, including SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Telegram, to disseminate fraudulent job offers. This warning comes as a response to several reported cases where phishing tactics were used to harvest sensitive personal data from victims by impersonating legitimate national institutions. According to the CSA, these criminal networks have become increasingly bold, specifically targeting sectors of high public interest. One prominent scam involves a fabricated recruitment drive allegedly linked to foreign security operations within the Ghana-Burkina Faso border region. Additionally, scammers have been circulating false claims that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is conducting a recruitment exercise that requires applicants to pay processing fees. The Authority emphasized that state agencies do not typically demand payments for employment opportunities and cautioned that such requests are a major red flag for fraudulent activity. To protect themselves, the CSA has advised the public to remain vigilant and look for tell-tale signs of cybercrime, such as poor grammar, spelling errors in advertisements, and the use of unofficial email addresses or social media accounts. Jobseekers are strongly encouraged to bypass third-party links and verify any employment vacancy directly with the human resource departments of the relevant institutions. The Authority further urged the public to report any suspicious online behavior or suspected recruitment fraud to the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-GH) or other relevant law enforcement agencies to help mitigate the spread of these digital threats.