Samuel Nartey George urges Africa to lead in global internet governance

Samuel Nartey George, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, has called on African nations to transition from being mere consumers of technology to becoming active leaders in shaping global internet and Artificial Intelligence (AI) policies. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2026 African School of Internet Governance (AfriSIG) in Accra, the Minister emphasized that the continent must secure a strong presence in international forums to ensure its interests are represented in the formulation of digital rules. He stressed that Africa's involvement is no longer optional but a necessity for its economic and social sovereignty.

The Minister highlighted the specific risks associated with underrepresentation in the rapidly evolving field of AI. He cautioned that without active participation in policy development, AI systems could be designed without considering African contexts, leading to biases and the marginalization of the continent's needs. To prevent this, he urged African governments to prioritize investments in digital infrastructure and skills development, ensuring that the workforce is equipped to not only use but also build and regulate emerging technologies.

Addressing the graduates of the AfriSIG program, Samuel Nartey George encouraged them to utilize their training to advocate for effective digital policies within their respective countries and across the continent. He commended the initiative for its role in strengthening internet governance expertise in Africa and noted that such educational efforts are critical for creating a unified African voice on the global stage. By fostering a generation of digital policy experts, the Minister believes Africa can better navigate the complexities of the digital age and drive its own technological destiny.