Cassiel Ato Forson pledges $300m for National Artificial Intelligence Centre

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has announced a $300 million investment earmarked for the 2027-2028 fiscal period to establish a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre. This initiative forms a core part of the government's "New Economy" agenda, which aims to modernize Ghana's digital infrastructure and enhance the nation's technological competitiveness. Beyond the creation of the AI facility, the funding will facilitate a major telecommunications overhaul, specifically upgrading rural mobile networks from 2G to 4G connectivity to bridge the digital divide.

The proposed National AI Centre is designed to serve as a hub for resources and specialized training in critical sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, and digital commerce. By focusing on practical technology skills, the centre aims to equip Ghanaian youth with the expertise necessary to compete in a global digital market. Dr. Forson emphasized during the budget presentation that the facility will not only provide technical training but also serve as an incubator for innovation, addressing local challenges through automated and intelligent systems.

A significant portion of the $300 million allocation will target the connectivity gap in underserved regions. Upgrading rural networks to 4G is expected to transform the daily lives of smallholder farmers by providing them with real-time access to market information and weather data. Furthermore, the transition to high-speed internet is intended to bolster telehealth services and remote educational tools in regions that have historically lagged behind urban centers in digital access.

To ensure the sustainable and ethical rollout of these technologies, the initiative includes specific safeguards regarding data privacy and accessibility. The "New Economy" agenda represents the government's broader vision to diversify the economy through technology-led growth. As the Ministry prepares for the 2027-2028 implementation phase, the focus remains on creating a secure digital ecosystem that balances rapid innovation with the protection of citizens' data.