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.

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Agentic Commerce: How AI Agents are Transforming the $7.4 Trillion Global E-Commerce Landscape

The digital marketplace is on the cusp of a significant transformation as "Agentic Commerce"—a model where artificial intelligence (AI) agents conduct autonomous purchasing decisions—begins to take root. This evolution comes at a time when the global e-commerce industry, currently valued at approximately $7.4 trillion, is projected to reach $8 trillion by 2027. Unlike traditional online shopping, which relies on human interaction with digital storefronts, agentic commerce leverages advanced AI technologies to facilitate transactions ranging from complex price comparisons to final payment execution without direct human intervention. At its core, this technological shift focuses on a streamlined four-stage process: intent capture, agent selection, authorization, and payment execution. By understanding a consumer's specific needs and preferences, AI agents can navigate the vast digital landscape to find the best value and finalize purchases autonomously. This system promises enhanced personalization and operational efficiency, fundamentally changing the role of the consumer from an active searcher to a supervisor of digital proxies. However, the rise of these autonomous buyers introduces the "principal-agent problem," necessitating a high degree of trust and alignment to ensure that the AI acts strictly in the best interest of the consumer. Despite its potential for revolutionary growth, the adoption of agentic commerce faces significant hurdles. Industry experts, including Dr. Kwami Ahiabenu, highlight critical challenges regarding data privacy, security, and ethical considerations. Protecting sensitive consumer data and ensuring that autonomous transactions are resilient against fraud remain top priorities for developers and regulators. Furthermore, the industry must address the ethical implications of machines making autonomous financial decisions, which requires robust regulatory frameworks and transparent algorithms to maintain public confidence. Looking ahead, the impact of agentic commerce is expected to be profound. Projections suggest that by 2030, AI agents could mediate between $3 trillion and $5 trillion in global consumer transactions. As AI continues to advance in capability and reliability, its role as a central mediator in commerce will likely solidify, marking a new era where machines are not just tools for shopping, but the primary participants in the global economy. This shift underscores a pivotal moment for technology and retail, requiring businesses to adapt to a world where their customers are increasingly non-human.

Anthropic Disrupts Global AI Misuse Including State-Sponsored Surveillance and Biological Weapon Research
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Anthropic Disrupts Global AI Misuse Including State-Sponsored Surveillance and Biological Weapon Research

Anthropic, the developer of the Claude AI model, has released a comprehensive threat intelligence report detailing the disruption of multiple attempts to weaponize its technology. Between December 2025 and August 2026, the company intervened in various malicious activities ranging from state-sponsored surveillance and cyber espionage to the exploration of biological and conventional weapons development. This first-of-its-kind report highlights the growing dual-use risk of frontier AI, where powerful tools designed for productivity are repurposed by malicious actors for harmful ends. A significant portion of the report focuses on state-sponsored actors utilizing AI to target vulnerable populations. Operations originating from China, Iran, and West Africa were reportedly shut down after attempting to use Claude for surveillance of dissidents and ethnic minorities. In one instance, a Malian contractor used the AI for intelligence gathering, while Iranian operatives leveraged social media identification techniques. Chinese groups were also found to be exploiting the model by rerouting user requests through fake accounts, a move that potentially violated privacy agreements while facilitating broader surveillance efforts. Beyond espionage, the report sounds an alarm over the potential for AI to accelerate the development of biological and conventional weaponry. Anthropic blocked several projects involving suspicious biological research, noting that while the specific intentions of some researchers remained ambiguous, the risk of catastrophic consequences necessitated immediate intervention. The misuse extended into the digital realm as well, with the company disrupting fraud schemes and the creation of fake dating apps, underscoring the versatility of AI in executing both sophisticated geopolitical attacks and common cybercrimes. In response to these findings, Anthropic has enhanced its internal processes to detect and mitigate future misuse while calling for urgent industry-wide discussions on AI safety. The company emphasized that the rapid progression of AI technology requires international collaboration on safety standards and robust regulatory frameworks. By sharing intelligence with authorities and industry partners, Anthropic aims to foster a collective defense against the evolving threats posed by advanced artificial intelligence, ensuring that the technology remains a force for benefit rather than a tool for global instability.

Stablecoins Emerge as Critical Financial Tool for Ghanaian Traders Amid Global Regulatory Shifts
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Stablecoins Emerge as Critical Financial Tool for Ghanaian Traders Amid Global Regulatory Shifts

Digital finance in Ghana is witnessing a transformative shift as stablecoins emerge as a viable alternative to traditional banking and volatile cryptocurrencies. Designed to maintain a steady value by being pegged to assets like the US dollar, stablecoins such as USDT and USDC are increasingly being adopted across the African continent. This trend is particularly relevant in Ghana, where businesses and individuals face the dual challenges of local currency fluctuations and the high costs often associated with conventional cross-border payment systems. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies known for their extreme price swings, stablecoins provide the technical advantages of blockchain—transparency, security, and speed—without the typical risk of sudden value loss. For Ghanaian traders who rely on international markets, these digital assets facilitate nearly instantaneous transactions at a fraction of the cost charged by many commercial banks. By bypassing the bureaucratic hurdles and high fees of traditional finance, local businesses can maintain liquidity and manage their capital more efficiently in a globalized marketplace. The global landscape for these assets is also maturing through significant legislative milestones. The introduction of the GENIUS Act in the United States and the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation in Europe are providing the necessary legal frameworks to enhance the stability and credibility of stablecoins. According to industry experts at WeWire Ghana Limited, these regulations are crucial for building trust among institutional investors and local users alike, ensuring that digital finance can scale safely and provide a reliable backbone for international trade. As Ghana continues to strengthen its digital economy, the integration of stablecoins represents a potential cornerstone for future economic growth. By simplifying the movement of money and reducing the barriers to entry for international trade, these "digital dollars" are set to play a pivotal role in the financial inclusion of local merchants. As the regulatory environment evolves both globally and locally, the shift toward widespread stablecoin adoption could fundamentally reshape how Ghana interacts with the global financial system, providing a buffer against local currency volatility.

Development Bank Ghana and Partners Launch 'Boa Mi' AI-Powered Finance Platform for Farmers
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Development Bank Ghana and Partners Launch 'Boa Mi' AI-Powered Finance Platform for Farmers

In a significant move to bridge the digital divide in Ghana's agricultural sector, Development Bank Ghana LTD (DBG), in partnership with Opportunity International (OI) and the Ghana Incentive-Based Risk-Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (GIRSAL), has officially launched 'Boa Mi.' This innovative, AI-driven agricultural finance platform is designed to provide critical financial guidance and real-time insights to smallholder farmers and agricultural agents across the country. By leveraging artificial intelligence, the initiative seeks to streamline access to information and credit, addressing long-standing barriers that have hindered productivity and financial inclusion in the rural economy. The platform’s name, 'Boa Mi,' is derived from the Akan phrase meaning 'help me,' reflecting its mission to serve as a supportive tool for those on the front lines of food production. Currently operating via WhatsApp, the platform offers a user-friendly interface that allows farmers to interact with sophisticated AI technology using a familiar communication tool. This choice of medium is strategic, as it minimizes the learning curve and utilizes existing mobile data infrastructure to reach users who might otherwise struggle with complex financial software. While the service is currently available in English, the partners have announced plans to expand its reach by integrating local languages, ensuring that the platform is accessible to a broader demographic of farmers. At present, 'Boa Mi' provides its services free of charge, offering real-time guidance that can help agents and farmers make more informed decisions regarding crop management, market trends, and financial planning. This data-driven approach is expected to improve the creditworthiness of small-scale producers by providing them with the tools needed to manage their operations more professionally. Unveiled at the ICT Sector Financing Roundtable, the launch of 'Boa Mi' underscores a growing commitment among Ghanaian financial institutions to integrate technology into traditional sectors. By combining the expertise of DBG, OI, and GIRSAL, the platform represents a multi-sectoral effort to modernize agriculture through digital innovation. As the platform scales, its potential to transform the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder farmers highlights the pivotal role of AI in driving sustainable economic growth and food security in Ghana.

NCA Clears MTN, Telecel, and Goal for Next Stage of 5G Spectrum Licensing
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NCA Clears MTN, Telecel, and Goal for Next Stage of 5G Spectrum Licensing

The National Communications Authority (NCA) of Ghana has officially advanced three telecommunications companies to the next phase of the 5G spectrum licensing process. In a press release dated September 9, 2026, the regulator announced that Scancom Plc (MTN Ghana), Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited (Telecel Ghana), and Goal Telecommunications Ltd successfully navigated the initial qualification stage. This milestone marks a critical step in the government's efforts to introduce high-speed 5G technology to the country, aiming to significantly enhance mobile broadband capabilities and support the nation’s ongoing digital transformation agenda. The NCA revealed that it received a total of four applications by the submission deadline on August 27, 2026. Following a rigorous evaluation of these submissions, the authority determined that three of the four candidates met the necessary criteria to move forward. While MTN, Telecel, and Goal Telecommunications secured their spots in the subsequent rounds, the application from Infrava Ltd was not qualified during the initial assessment. The selection of these major players underscores the competitive nature of the licensing process as the country seeks established partners to deploy next-generation network infrastructure. Moving forward, the qualified applicants will proceed to Stage 3 of the licensing procedure. This phase involves the opening and ranking of the "Best Price Offers" submitted by the companies, a process that will determine the final allocation of the 5G spectrum. The NCA noted that the specific dates for these rankings would be communicated to the participants separately. As Ghana looks toward a more connected future, the successful rollout of 5G is expected to catalyze economic growth, improve digital public services, and provide the high-speed connectivity required for emerging technologies.

Anthropic Safety Researcher Evan Hubinger Warns of 10% Risk of AI-Induced Human Extinction Within a Decade
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Anthropic Safety Researcher Evan Hubinger Warns of 10% Risk of AI-Induced Human Extinction Within a Decade

Evan Hubinger, a prominent safety researcher at the AI firm Anthropic, has sounded an urgent alarm regarding the rapid progression of artificial intelligence, estimating that there is a greater than 10% chance that the technology could lead to human extinction within the next decade. While Hubinger notes that current AI models do not yet possess such catastrophic capabilities, he warns that the current trajectory of development is leading toward existential threats that humanity may soon be unable to contain. This stark assessment adds significant weight to the ongoing global debate about the safety and ethics of advanced machine learning systems. The researcher's warnings have sparked a wave of reaction from both the scientific and political communities. Dame Wendy Hall, a renowned computer scientist, expressed profound shock at the severity of Hubinger’s prediction, reflecting a broader concern among experts that the public may not be fully aware of the risks involved. The conversation is no longer limited to theoretical possibilities; experts point to recent AI-related cyber-attacks as evidence that the technology can already be weaponized in ways that destabilize global security and infrastructure. In response to these growing fears, political leaders are advocating for a coordinated global response. Former UK Treasury chief Darren Jones has called for the immediate drafting of international treaties specifically focused on AI safety. These proponents of regulation argue that national laws are insufficient for a technology that transcends borders and that a unified, global framework is the only way to ensure that development remains within safe parameters. The call for such treaties highlights a shift toward viewing AI safety as a matter of international security rather than just a technical or corporate responsibility. As the industry moves forward, the focus is increasingly turning toward responsible development—a concept that Hubinger and other safety advocates argue must be more than just a buzzword. The next decade is seen as a pivotal period where the decisions made by AI developers and world governments will determine whether artificial intelligence becomes a tool for unprecedented human progress or a catalyst for global catastrophe. The intensifying dialogue suggests that the window for implementing effective safety guardrails is closing as quickly as the technology is advancing.

Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Deputy Chief of staff, Administration
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Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo Reveals AI Trade Platform Boosts GRA Revenue by GH¢1 Billion Monthly

The Deputy Chief of Staff, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, has announced a significant milestone in Ghana's digital transformation, revealing that a specialized AI trade valuation platform is now generating GH¢1 billion in revenue every month for the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). Speaking at the HR Café in Accra, Bampoe Addo highlighted how the deployment of artificial intelligence has revolutionized revenue collection and enhanced the overall efficiency of various public services. This fiscal boost underscores the government's commitment to modernizing state institutions through innovative technology to ensure more robust national development. During her address, Bampoe Addo emphasized that the AI reforms within the GRA and other public institutions are designed to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and improve transparency. By automating complex trade valuations, the platform minimizes human error and speeds up processes that were previously prone to delays. The Deputy Chief of Staff noted that these technological advancements are central to the administration's strategy to leverage digital tools for sustainable economic growth and improved service delivery for all Ghanaians. Beyond the domestic impact of AI, Bampoe Addo called for enhanced regional cooperation, specifically urging for stronger collaboration between Ghana and Burkina Faso in the realm of public policy. She described the HR Café as a vital platform for fostering ties and sharing best practices between the two West African nations. While championing the benefits of technology, she maintained that human capital remains the most critical asset, suggesting that AI should be viewed as a tool to augment human capability rather than a total replacement for the workforce. However, the Deputy Chief of Staff also issued a cautionary note regarding the rapid adoption of AI, identifying potential risks such as job displacement and data security vulnerabilities. She advocated for a balanced approach to digital integration—one that prioritizes the security of national data and provides a safety net for workers affected by automation. Moving forward, the government aims to continue refining its AI strategies to ensure they are both inclusive and secure, providing a blueprint for public sector modernization across the sub-region.

Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, speaking during the Government Accountability Series
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Minister Samuel Nartey George Outlines Strategy to Combat Chronic Fibre Cuts and Grid Instability

The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has identified the twin challenges of frequent fibre optic cable cuts and national power grid instability as the most significant threats to Ghana’s network quality. Speaking on the current state of digital infrastructure, the Minister revealed a troubling trend in service disruptions that continues to affect millions of citizens. Data indicates that during the first half of 2023, the country recorded 4,289 fibre cuts, with projections suggesting that these incidents could rise to over 8,500 annually if the trend remains unchecked. These outages not only frustrate consumers but also undermine the broader digitalization agenda under the current administration. A significant portion of these infrastructure failures is attributed to road construction projects, where excavation work frequently damages underground fibre lines. To resolve this, the Minister announced that a "Dig Once Policy" is currently pending approval. This policy is designed to streamline infrastructure development by requiring the installation of fibre conduits during the initial phases of road construction. By integrating digital infrastructure into civil works, the government hopes to eliminate the need for subsequent excavations that put existing networks at risk. Additionally, the Ministry plans to enforce stringent penalties against contractors who fail to safeguard telecom assets during their operations. In addition to physical cable damage, the Ministry is addressing the impact of an unstable power grid on digital services. Minister George noted that collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and GRIDCo is essential to build power resilience, as network stability is inextricably linked to a consistent electricity supply. Despite these operational hurdles, major industry players such as MTN Ghana and Telecel are moving forward with substantial investments. These efforts are focused on modernizing rural connectivity and expanding network capabilities to ensure that even the most remote areas can benefit from reliable digital access as the government works to fortify the national backbone.

Samuel Nartey George (middle), Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, addressing stakeholders at the transport station. With him are Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey (2nd from left), Eastern Regional Minister, and other officials
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Minister Sam George Assures Public on Telecom Mast Safety and Announces 6,000 New Cell Sites

Ghana's Minister of Communication, Samuel Nartey George, has moved to allay public fears regarding the health impacts of telecommunications infrastructure, asserting that cell towers and masts pose no risk to citizens. Speaking in response to specific concerns raised about a new installation in Koforidua, the Minister emphasized that the government prioritizes public health above all else. He clarified that all telecommunications equipment in the country must pass rigorous certification and monitoring processes to ensure they operate within safe radiation limits, providing a necessary backbone for the nation's digital economy. To maintain these high safety standards, the Minister highlighted the collaborative regulatory framework involving the National Communications Authority (NCA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA). Mr. George noted that scientific evidence consistently demonstrates that the non-ionizing radiation emitted by these masts is far below levels that could cause harm to human health. By enforcing strict adherence to these guidelines, the government ensures that the expansion of connectivity does not come at the expense of community well-being. Looking toward the future of Ghana's digital landscape, Minister George announced a significant network expansion project that will see the addition of 6,000 new cell sites across the country. This initiative is designed to drastically improve service quality, eliminate dead zones, and increase overall network capacity. Parallel to this physical infrastructure growth, the Minister also promoted the One Million Coders Programme, an initiative aimed at enhancing digital literacy and technical skills. He reported strong participation from the academic community, noting that the programme is already empowering students and universities to lead Ghana's technological evolution.

Apple CEO John Ternus Unveils $1,999 Foldable iPhone Duo and Siri AI
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Apple CEO John Ternus Unveils $1,999 Foldable iPhone Duo and Siri AI

In a significant move for Apple’s new leadership, CEO John Ternus has introduced the iPhone Duo, the company’s first foldable smartphone, during his inaugural public appearance. Starting at a price of $1,999, the device represents Apple’s entry into a competitive market currently led by brands such as Huawei. The launch is seen as a major strategic shift, positioning the company to compete in the high-end foldable segment while maintaining its reputation for premium hardware. Alongside the Duo, Apple also revealed the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, ensuring a comprehensive update to its smartphone portfolio. The iPhone Duo features a unique design that transforms from a traditional smartphone form factor into a display reminiscent of a small iPad when unfolded. Ternus highlighted that the device was engineered to provide a superior user experience compared to existing foldables on the market, focusing on design innovation and seamless integration. This transition from phone to tablet-style usage aims to capture users looking for both portability and a larger canvas for productivity. However, market analysts have pointed out the challenges ahead, noting the device's high price point and the established dominance of competitors in this specific niche. In addition to the new hardware, Apple introduced "Siri AI," an enhanced version of its digital assistant that leverages new artificial intelligence capabilities. A primary focus of Siri AI is user privacy, a move intended to differentiate Apple's AI offerings from those of other tech giants. By emphasizing on-device processing and data security, the company hopes to reassure users about the safety of their personal information while providing more advanced and intuitive digital assistance. This software evolution is expected to be a core feature across the new iPhone 18 lineup and the iPhone Duo. As John Ternus takes the lead, the success of the iPhone Duo will be a key indicator of the company’s direction under his tenure. The high-stakes gamble on a $1,999 foldable device reflects Apple’s willingness to innovate in a maturing smartphone market. Whether the iPhone Duo can successfully challenge Huawei’s current dominance and convince consumers to adopt the new form factor remains to be seen. For now, the combination of advanced AI and bold hardware design marks a new chapter for the technology giant as it seeks to maintain its global influence.

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Cybersecurity Expert David Gyedu Warns of Sophisticated Mobile Money Social Engineering Tactics

Cybersecurity expert David Gyedu has issued a stern warning to Mobile Money (MoMo) and banking customers regarding the rapidly evolving landscape of digital financial fraud. Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show, Gyedu highlighted a significant shift in criminal strategies, noting that fraudsters have moved beyond basic phishing calls to more advanced social engineering techniques. As Ghana continues to embrace digital transactions, the expert emphasized that the increased reliance on these services has inadvertently created a broader surface for sophisticated scams. \n\nAccording to Gyedu, modern fraud often involves complex psychological manipulation and technical exploits. He specifically pointed to the emergence of 'mobile money PIN malware,' which targets users' private credentials directly through their devices. Furthermore, he cautioned against the proliferation of fraudulent mobile applications that lure victims with false promises of quick loans or high-yield investments. These apps often serve as gateways for criminals to harvest sensitive banking data or exert pressure on individuals to transfer funds under duress. \n\nThe warning extended beyond digital apps to physical points of interaction, such as ATMs. Gyedu advised customers to remain highly vigilant when entering banking credentials in public spaces and to be wary of any suspicious attachments or behavior around automated teller machines. He noted that as the digital ecosystem expands, criminals are increasingly using 'pressure tactics'—convincing victims of false emergencies or legal threats—to bypass standard security instincts and compel immediate, irreversible transactions. \n\nTo mitigate these risks, Gyedu stressed the importance of proactive communication between customers and their financial institutions. He urged users to monitor their accounts closely and report any suspicious activities to their banks immediately to facilitate the blocking of fraudulent transactions. Strengthening public awareness and education remains the primary defense against these emerging threats. Gyedu’s insights serve as a critical reminder that while technology offers convenience, it requires a corresponding level of user vigilance to maintain financial security in an increasingly connected world.

Minister Sam Nartey George Targets Massive Infrastructure Boost as Ghana’s Smartphone Penetration Hits 71.8%
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Minister Sam Nartey George Targets Massive Infrastructure Boost as Ghana’s Smartphone Penetration Hits 71.8%

Ghana has experienced a transformative surge in digital adoption, with smartphone penetration rising from 27.5% in 2016 to 71.8% as of June 2026. Speaking at a Government Accountability Series event, the Minister of Communications, Digitalisation and Innovation, Mr. Sam Nartey George, highlighted how this growth has made mobile connectivity indispensable for everyday life. From business and mobile banking to education and agriculture, Ghanaians are increasingly reliant on digital tools, yet the Minister warned that the physical infrastructure required to support this demand has not kept pace with the rapid adoption of hardware. Evidence of this infrastructure lag is found in the fluctuating numbers of new network site installations over the past decade. While the sector saw a peak of 352 new sites added in 2019, development has slowed significantly in recent years. The Minister reported that only 30 new network sites were recorded in 2024, with a modest 50 sites projected for 2025. This slowdown has particularly affected rural areas, where connectivity gaps remain a barrier to total digital inclusion. Mr. Nartey George criticized these low figures, emphasizing that the current pace is insufficient to meet the needs of a nation where nearly three-quarters of the population now carry a smartphone. To bridge this widening gap, the Ministry is aggressively pushing for an expansion of network capacity. A key component of this strategy involves a directive to MTN to increase its planned new sites for 2026 from 500 to 800. Beyond just increasing the number of towers, the government is prioritizing the technological transition from legacy 2G and 3G services to more robust 4G and 5G networks. These upgrades are deemed essential for supporting modern digital applications that require high-speed data, such as e-learning platforms and sophisticated fintech services that are becoming the backbone of the Ghanaian economy. Closing the disparity between device ownership and network quality remains a top priority for the administration as it seeks to fully leverage the digital economy. By focusing on infrastructure expansion and the deployment of 5G technology, the Ministry aims to ensure that the benefits of the digital revolution are not confined to urban centers. As Ghana moves toward the end of 2026, the success of these infrastructure targets will be critical in determining whether the country can sustain its digital momentum and provide reliable, high-speed access to all citizens, regardless of their location.