Cassiel Ato Forson announces US$300m for National AI Centre

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has announced that the government will establish a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre supported by a US$300 million investment. The facility is designed to drive Ghana's technological advancement by focusing on practical, local applications rather than attempting to rival global superpowers such as the United States and China. The initiative forms a core part of the administration's broader economic transformation programme aimed at enhancing local industries and fostering innovation.

According to the Minister, the US$300 million funding will be allocated from the 2027 budget to support both the establishment of the centre and the upgrading of rural connectivity across the country. Dr. Forson emphasized that the primary objective is to develop AI solutions that directly benefit Ghanaian citizens and essential sectors. In particular, the centre will focus on the healthcare sector, where AI tools will be developed to assist medical professionals in diagnostics and patient care, as well as the agricultural sector to boost productivity.

The Minister underscored that Ghana’s approach to AI is grounded in pragmatism and domestic needs. Instead of entering the global race for general-purpose AI dominance, the National AI Centre will prioritize skills development and the creation of sustainable jobs for the youth. By tailoring AI to solve specific domestic challenges, the government aims to enhance the efficiency of local industries and ensure that technological progress translates into tangible economic growth for the population.

This strategic investment is expected to help bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas while positioning Ghana as a leader in applied AI within the sub-region. By integrating AI into critical infrastructure and services, the government intends to create a more resilient economy that leverages modern technology to improve public service delivery and industrial output. The 2027 budget commitment marks a significant step in ensuring the country remains competitive in the digital age through targeted innovation.