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.

AfriNova Waste Solutions Launches "Wastle" Platform to Digitalize Ghana's Sanitation Sector
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AfriNova Waste Solutions Launches "Wastle" Platform to Digitalize Ghana's Sanitation Sector

AfriNova Waste Solutions has officially launched its innovative digital platform, "Wastle," in Accra, marking a significant step toward integrating technology into Ghana’s sanitation sector. Alex Kwame Donyinah, the Managing Partner at AfriNova, highlighted the platform's potential to address the chronic challenges of unreliable waste collection and the resulting environmental health risks caused by improper disposal. By leveraging digital tools, the company aims to streamline sanitation services and provide a more structured approach to a sector that has historically struggled with inefficiency and informality. The "Wastle" platform functions as a bridge between households, businesses, and waste management providers, allowing users to request services and track collection efforts in real-time. According to Mr. Donyinah, transitioning from informal waste collection to a tech-driven, efficient system is not only a matter of cleanliness but also carries substantial economic implications. The platform is designed to create a more transparent ecosystem where service delivery is monitored and optimized, ensuring that waste is collected promptly and disposed of through the correct channels, thereby reducing the prevalence of illegal dumping. The launch event also featured remarks from Deputy Minister John Setor Dumelo, who lauded the initiative as a timely innovation for the country’s sanitation landscape. He emphasized the importance of closing the gap between the massive volume of waste generated daily and the current capacity for recycling and proper disposal. Minister Dumelo encouraged further investments in technological solutions that can scale across the country, noting that such advancements are crucial for achieving national sanitation goals and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among the populace. As Ghana continues to grapple with rapid urbanization and the increasing pressure on waste infrastructure, the introduction of Wastle signals a shift toward a modern, data-driven sanitation strategy. By empowering both service providers and consumers with better tools for coordination, AfriNova seeks to foster a cleaner urban environment while supporting the government's broader agenda for a cleaner nation. The success of this platform could serve as a blueprint for other technological interventions aimed at solving essential public service delivery challenges across the region.

Dr. Jefferson Seneadza Urges Ghanaian Journalists to Master AI and Prompt Engineering for Ethical Storytelling
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Dr. Jefferson Seneadza Urges Ghanaian Journalists to Master AI and Prompt Engineering for Ethical Storytelling

Dr. Jefferson S. Seneadza, a prominent expert in Information Systems and Artificial Intelligence, has called on Ghanaian journalists to adapt to the evolving technological landscape by mastering the art of prompt engineering. Speaking during a specialized session for Africa Environmental Media Foundation (AEMF) Fellows, Dr. Seneadza highlighted that the future of journalism increasingly depends on the "art of asking better questions." As AI becomes more integrated into newsrooms, he emphasized that media professionals must develop the technical literacy required to harness these tools effectively while steadfastly protecting the core values of their profession. During his presentation, titled "Prompt Engineering for Journalists," Dr. Seneadza utilized a relatable newsroom-based analogy to demystify complex technical concepts, including Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Generative AI. This pedagogical approach helped participants visualize AI systems not as replacements for human journalists, but as sophisticated digital assistants. A central feature of the training was the introduction of the "CICO" Framework, a structured method designed for effective AI prompting. By utilizing this framework, journalists can provide clear context and constraints to AI models, resulting in more precise, relevant, and useful outputs for their reporting. Beyond technical proficiency, the session underscored the critical necessity of ethical oversight in an era of increasing automation. Dr. Seneadza warned against the risks of over-reliance on technology, urging journalists to maintain absolute editorial control over all AI-generated content. He stressed that the rigorous verification of AI-generated claims is non-negotiable for upholding factual accuracy and preserving the public trust that defines the media's role in society. He argued that the human element of journalism—empathy, ethics, and critical investigation—must remain at the forefront of the storytelling process. The training concluded with a resonant call to action for Ghanaian media practitioners to lead the way in creating ethical and impactful narratives. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the global media industry, staying ahead of the curve requires a proactive commitment to continuous learning. By blending traditional investigative rigor with modern technological skills, Ghanaian journalists can ensure they remain relevant and capable of delivering high-quality news that meets the demands of the digital age.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Urges Global Framework for Artificial Intelligence Governance
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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Urges Global Framework for Artificial Intelligence Governance

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a pressing call for the establishment of a robust global governance system to regulate the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI). Speaking during the UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance in Geneva on October 23, 2023, the UN chief emphasized that the international community must act swiftly to ensure that these emerging technologies are harnessed for the benefit of all humanity. His remarks highlight a growing consensus that the current pace of AI innovation is significantly outstripping the ability of global institutions to manage its potential risks and ethical implications. During the dialogue, Guterres warned that allowing AI to evolve without established rules and clear accountability frameworks could lead to a future where technology, rather than human values, shapes the trajectory of society. He stressed that while AI offers immense potential for progress, its advancement must be guided by a collective global effort to maintain human control and oversight. The Secretary-General’s appeal underscores a critical concern: that without standardized regulations, the disparity between technological capability and ethical governance will only widen, potentially leading to unintended consequences on a global scale. As the world moves toward a more digitally integrated future, the UN’s stance reflects a shift toward proactive diplomacy in the tech sector. Guterres advocated for a framework that prioritizes human rights and transparency, urging nations to collaborate on shared standards rather than operating in silos. The call for a global governance system is seen as a necessary step toward building trust in AI systems and ensuring that their deployment is aligned with the United Nations' sustainable development goals. Moving forward, the international community faces the challenge of translating these high-level principles into enforceable international policies that can keep pace with a fast-moving industry.

Minister Samuel Nartey George Partners with UNDP to Accelerate Ghana’s Digital Transformation and AI Initiatives
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Minister Samuel Nartey George Partners with UNDP to Accelerate Ghana’s Digital Transformation and AI Initiatives

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has reaffirmed the Ghanaian government’s commitment to building a resilient and inclusive digital ecosystem. In a high-level meeting with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Minister outlined strategic plans to leverage emerging technologies, specifically Artificial Intelligence (AI) and financial technology (Fintech), to enhance public service delivery and drive economic growth. This engagement underscores Ghana’s broader digital transformation agenda, aiming to position the nation as a technological hub in the sub-region through strategic international partnerships. Central to the discussions was the implementation of the UNESCO Readiness Assessment Methodology, which the government is utilizing to identify priority areas for digital development and policy readiness. Minister George highlighted progress toward establishing a national fintech fund, a strategic initiative designed to catalyze private sector investment and foster innovation within Ghana’s burgeoning financial technology sector. By creating a structured funding mechanism, the government hopes to lower the barrier for local tech startups and scale digital solutions that address domestic financial challenges while promoting economic formalization. UNDP’s Head, Niloy Banerjee, emphasized the importance of sustained government participation and co-financing to ensure the success of these flagship projects. He provided updates on several collaborative efforts, including a digital platform for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the development of the Digital Youth Village—a project aimed at providing modern infrastructure and training for the next generation of tech leaders. Banerjee noted that increased government commitment is essential to unlocking further support from international development partners and securing the long-term sustainability of these digital assets. The meeting also focused on human capital development through a planned capacity-building program in AI and digital governance specifically for the Civil Service. This initiative is intended to equip public officials with the necessary skills to develop robust policies and manage emerging technologies effectively within the public sector. Furthermore, both the Minister and the UNDP representatives stressed the importance of gender inclusion in all digital projects, ensuring that the benefits of technological advancement are equitably distributed and that women are actively represented in Ghana’s evolving digital economy.

MOONDOOG Technologies Proposes AI-Powered Citizen Assistant to Enhance Ghana’s Public Service Delivery
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MOONDOOG Technologies Proposes AI-Powered Citizen Assistant to Enhance Ghana’s Public Service Delivery

Samuel Nartey George, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, recently hosted a delegation from MOONDOOG Technologies to discuss a groundbreaking proposal for a "Ghana AI Citizen Assistant." Led by CEO Isaac Ayitey Chris-Quaye, the tech firm presented an early-stage prototype of an artificial intelligence platform specifically designed to revolutionize how Ghanaians interact with the state. This initiative marks a significant step in the government's pursuit of modernizing public administration through advanced digital solutions and local technical expertise. The proposed AI Citizen Assistant aims to serve as a streamlined digital interface for the public, providing easier access to essential government services and information. During the presentation, the MOONDOOG team demonstrated the prototype's potential to simplify complex processes that often hinder citizen engagement with public institutions. By leveraging artificial intelligence, the platform is intended to reduce bureaucracy and provide real-time assistance, ensuring that public services are more inclusive, responsive, and accessible to all segments of the population regardless of their technical proficiency. This collaboration underscores the Ministry of Communication’s ongoing commitment to fostering an ecosystem where local technology innovators can contribute directly to national development. Minister Samuel Nartey George emphasized the importance of such partnerships in driving the country’s digital transformation agenda. By integrating AI into public service delivery, the government seeks not only to improve operational efficiency but also to position Ghana as a leader in digital innovation within the sub-region, reflecting a broader trend of adopting Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies for social good. As the proposal moves forward, the focus will likely shift toward refining the prototype to ensure robust data security and user-friendly features that meet national standards. The successful implementation of the Ghana AI Citizen Assistant could serve as a blueprint for other digital interventions, potentially transforming the relationship between the government and its citizens into one that is more transparent and efficient. This engagement highlights a proactive approach to adopting emerging technologies that address the practical, everyday needs of the Ghanaian public.

Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako, Director General at the Ghana Cyber Security Authority
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Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako Warns Social Engineering is Ghana's Weakest Link in Digital Fraud Fight

Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, the founder of the e-Crime Bureau and a prominent voice in Ghana’s cybersecurity landscape, has identified social engineering as the most significant vulnerability in the nation's fight against digital fraud. As Ghana's digital economy continues its rapid expansion, Dr. Antwi-Boasiako warns that the exploitation of human psychology—specifically trust and fear—remains the primary method used by cybercriminals to bypass technical security measures. With digital payment adoption on the rise, the scale of the threat is becoming increasingly evident; data indicates that reported fraud cases reached 16,733 in 2024, reflecting a sharp escalation in risks as internet usage permeates more aspects of daily life.\n\nThe tactics employed by fraudsters have evolved significantly, moving far beyond traditional suspicious telephone calls. Dr. Antwi-Boasiako notes that modern social engineering now incorporates sophisticated phishing links, the creation of fake online identities, and the use of cloned social media accounts to deceive unsuspecting victims. These methods are designed to manipulate individuals into voluntarily relinquishing sensitive information or authorizing fraudulent transactions. According to reports from the Bank of Ghana, the rise in these cases corresponds directly with the growing popularity of digital finance platforms, suggesting that human vulnerability is being industrialized by criminal networks.\n\nSpeaking in the context of the Digital Economy Forum, Dr. Antwi-Boasiako emphasized that addressing this trust crisis requires more than just technical solutions. He argues that because social engineering targets human behavior, the defense must also be human-centric. This involves a shift from viewing cybersecurity as a purely IT issue to understanding it as a societal challenge. The growth of Ghana’s digital landscape is at a critical juncture where the benefits of financial inclusion must be balanced against the necessity of protecting citizens from increasingly complex digital scams.\n\nTo ensure the sustainable growth of the digital economy, Dr. Antwi-Boasiako is calling for a model of collective responsibility. This approach mandates that the government, private businesses, and individual citizens work in concert to build a resilient ecosystem. He stresses that heightened awareness and comprehensive consumer education are the most effective tools for empowering users to recognize and resist manipulative tactics. Moving forward, the focus must remain on fostering a culture of digital vigilance, where every participant in the digital economy is equipped with the knowledge to safeguard their information and assets.

UN Digital Agency Launches Global Initiative to Standardize Trust and Oversight for AI Agents
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UN Digital Agency Launches Global Initiative to Standardize Trust and Oversight for AI Agents

The United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has officially launched a new initiative aimed at bolstering public and institutional trust in artificial intelligence (AI) agents. Announced during the prestigious AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva, the initiative addresses growing international concerns regarding the rapid deployment of autonomous AI systems. These AI agents, which are designed to perform complex tasks independently, have sparked significant debate over the necessity for rigorous human oversight and clear accountability frameworks to prevent misuse or unintended consequences. The initiative comes in response to specific risks associated with autonomous AI, including the potential for unauthorized decision-making, digital impersonation, and the loss of human control over automated processes. To mitigate these threats, the ITU has established a dedicated Focus Group tasked with creating comprehensive frameworks to ensure AI agents are both identifiable and trustworthy. This group will bring together a diverse cohort of experts spanning the fields of technology, public policy, and international law to develop technical standards and ethical guidelines that can be applied globally. While the technology offers transformative potential across various industries, the UN agency is placing particular emphasis on safeguarding sensitive sectors such as global finance and critical infrastructure, where the impact of an AI error or security breach could be catastrophic. The roadmap for this initiative includes a series of high-level expert meetings scheduled to take place in Paris and Geneva. These sessions will focus on refining the proposed frameworks, ensuring that as AI agents become more integrated into daily life and industrial operations, they operate within a secure, transparent, and human-centric global governance structure.

Ghana’s Utility Sectors Set for Digital Overhaul with AI-Powered Regulatory Platform
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Ghana’s Utility Sectors Set for Digital Overhaul with AI-Powered Regulatory Platform

Ghana has launched a significant digital transformation initiative within its electricity and water sectors through the commencement of the Regulatory Information Database Management System (RIDBMS) Phase II project. This initiative is designed to modernize the collection, monitoring, and management of utility data, marking a decisive shift away from outdated manual systems. By transitioning to a robust digital framework, the project aims to enhance regulatory oversight, improve data accuracy, and strengthen consumer protection across the nation’s essential services. This move aligns with Ghana’s broader national agenda to leverage technology for improved governance and service delivery. The project is supported by the Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Trust Fund, with funding facilitated through the African Development Bank (AfDB). A cornerstone of this digital boost is the introduction of an AI-powered customer support chatbot capable of providing 24-hour assistance to consumers. Additionally, the system will deploy advanced digital inspection tools to facilitate real-time data exchange between regulators, utility companies, and the public. These technological upgrades are expected to reduce the latency in regulatory responses and provide a more transparent view of utility performance and service quality. Over the scheduled six-month implementation phase, the project will focus on integrating these digital tools into the daily operations of the power and water sectors. The automation of data collection is intended to eliminate the inefficiencies associated with manual reporting, thereby fostering a more accountable environment for utility providers. For consumers, the system promises a more responsive regulatory body that can address grievances and monitor service interruptions with greater precision and speed. As Ghana continues to position itself as a leader in digital transformation on the continent, the RIDBMS Phase II serves as a critical milestone in infrastructure modernization. Beyond immediate operational efficiency, the project sets a precedent for how data-driven regulation can be used to manage national resources effectively. By bridging the gap between regulators and citizens through artificial intelligence and real-time monitoring, Ghana is laying the groundwork for a more resilient and consumer-centric utility landscape.

PURC Achieves 96% Resolution Rate as Social Media Becomes Primary Tool for Utility Complaints
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PURC Achieves 96% Resolution Rate as Social Media Becomes Primary Tool for Utility Complaints

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has reported a significant shift in how Ghanaian consumers interact with utility providers, successfully leveraging social media platforms to expedite the resolution of grievances. In the first half of the year, the regulator recorded a total of 1,275 complaints against the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) and Ghana Water Limited (GWL). Central to this digital transformation is the heavy reliance on WhatsApp, which accounted for a staggering 84% of all lodged complaints. This move toward digital engagement has proven highly effective, with the commission achieving a 96% resolution rate, translating to 1,223 successfully addressed cases during the period under review.A closer examination of the data reveals that the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) was the primary subject of consumer dissatisfaction, accounting for 98% of the total complaints. The grievances were largely centered on service quality issues, specifically frequent power outages and instances of low voltage that disrupt domestic and commercial activities. In contrast, complaints against Ghana Water Limited (GWL) represented a much smaller fraction of the recorded cases. The PURC's ability to track these issues through digital channels has allowed for a more granular understanding of service delivery gaps across the jurisdictions served by these utility providers, enabling faster response times than traditional physical reporting methods.Beyond merely resolving technical issues, the PURC's intervention has resulted in direct financial relief for affected consumers. The commission facilitated credit adjustments totaling GHS 90,055.69 for customers during this period, ensuring that billing inaccuracies or service failures were compensated appropriately. By encouraging consumers to report issues at no cost through accessible platforms like WhatsApp, the PURC is lowering the barrier to consumer justice and fostering a more responsive regulatory environment. Looking forward, the success of this digital-first approach suggests a permanent shift in utility regulation in Ghana, where real-time communication and transparency are becoming the expected standards for public service accountability.

Dr Arnold Mashud Abukari — Cybersecurity Expert
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Dr. Arnold Mashud Abukari Calls for Indigenous Language Systems to Combat Ghana's Cybersecurity Threats

Dr. Arnold Mashud Abukari, a prominent cybersecurity expert, has urged Ghanaian authorities to develop multilingual cyber threat monitoring systems to better detect and respond to emerging digital dangers. Speaking at a recent public lecture and the launch of his new book, Dr. Abukari highlighted a critical gap in the nation's current cybersecurity framework: an over-reliance on English-centric monitoring. He argued that to effectively safeguard the nation, security systems must be capable of analyzing major Ghanaian indigenous languages, which are increasingly being used to facilitate illicit activities and coordinate crimes on social media platforms. The call for action comes alongside the release of Dr. Abukari’s book, "Digital Radicalism: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Countering Cyber Terrorism and Digital Radicalism in Ghana." The publication details how extremist groups and criminals exploit digital platforms to spread misinformation, recruit vulnerable individuals, and coordinate cybercrimes. By monitoring local languages on social media and other digital forums, Dr. Abukari believes authorities can more effectively disrupt these networks before they cause significant harm. He noted that the current linguistic limitations of monitoring tools create blind spots that bad actors are actively exploiting. Beyond technical monitoring, Dr. Abukari emphasized the necessity of a proactive approach to digital safety through education. He advocated for the development of a comprehensive digital literacy curriculum in partnership with the Ghana Education Service (GES). This initiative would aim to equip the youth with the critical thinking skills needed to navigate the digital space safely and resist radicalization. He also stressed the importance of expanding national cybersecurity awareness campaigns to reach more citizens across various demographics, ensuring that digital literacy becomes a cornerstone of national security. In his closing remarks, Dr. Abukari underscored that technological solutions alone are insufficient to combat the complexities of digital radicalism. He called for a multi-faceted strategy involving community engagement, cross-sector collaboration, and robust policy interventions. By fostering a culture of digital vigilance and ensuring that monitoring tools are culturally and linguistically relevant, Ghana can better protect its citizens from the evolving landscape of global and domestic cyber threats, ensuring a safer digital environment for all.

Shift the Focus to Outcomes: The Debate Over AI Integration in the Workplace
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Shift the Focus to Outcomes: The Debate Over AI Integration in the Workplace

The rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into professional environments has sparked a significant debate regarding the authenticity and value of modern work. As skepticism mounts over the use of advanced digital tools, a growing perspective suggests that the focus of professional evaluation should shift from the methods employed to the quality of the final output. This argument posits that when a result is outstanding, the specific tool used to achieve it becomes secondary, provided that the outcome meets the required standards of excellence and accuracy. By prioritizing results over the mechanics of production, organizations can better navigate the transition into an AI-driven era. Historically, every major technological advancement has met with a degree of resistance or nostalgia for older, more manual processes. From the advent of the printing press to the rise of modern computing, new tools have consistently enhanced human productivity rather than undermining it. AI is viewed as the latest evolution in this chain, offering unprecedented capabilities to streamline tasks and solve complex problems. Rather than viewing these tools as a threat to professional integrity, experts suggest they should be seen as force multipliers that allow individuals to achieve more than was previously possible through traditional means alone. However, the adoption of AI does not absolve the user of responsibility; rather, it heightens the need for human discernment. Because AI systems are capable of producing both brilliant insights and total nonsense, the critical factor remains the judgment of the person operating the tool. The user must act as a filter, ensuring that the AI’s output is factually sound, ethically responsible, and aligned with the intended objective. In this sense, the tool is only as effective as the professional oversight guiding it, reinforcing the idea that human expertise remains indispensable even as our tools become more sophisticated. Ultimately, the path forward involves the responsible integration of these technologies into everyday workflows rather than resisting change out of discomfort or a preference for the past. As civilization progresses, the continuous adoption of better tools has been a cornerstone of societal advancement. By embracing AI and focusing on the tangible results it helps produce, the professional world can foster a culture of innovation that values efficiency and high-quality outcomes. The challenge for the future lies not in the tools themselves, but in our ability to use them wisely to enhance the standards of our collective work.

Cyber Security Authority Proposes Transaction Delays and Enhanced Identity Verification to Curb Mobile Money Fraud
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Cyber Security Authority Proposes Transaction Delays and Enhanced Identity Verification to Curb Mobile Money Fraud

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) of Ghana has intensified its call for telecommunications companies to implement more robust safeguards to mitigate the surge in mobile money fraud across the country. Benjamin Maduro Avornyotse, the Acting Director at the CSA, highlighted the increasing frequency of fraud reports involving mobile money platforms, stressing that current system vulnerabilities must be addressed urgently. To combat this trend, the CSA is advocating for a multi-stakeholder approach involving telecom operators, regulatory bodies, and law enforcement agencies to close existing gaps and deploy more effective preventive measures. One of the central proposals put forward by the CSA involves introducing strategic delays in transactions where fraudulent activity is suspected. According to Mr. Avornyotse, such a mechanism would allow for immediate investigations to be conducted without the risk of instant financial loss for the victim. Additionally, the Authority identified significant challenges regarding the accurate linking of mobile numbers to verified identities. Gaps in the SIM registration process continue to complicate efforts to trace and prosecute offenders, making it easier for criminals to operate anonymously. The CSA has already begun engaging with major firms, including MTN, to discuss these customer concerns and refine technical solutions. While the CSA plays a pivotal role in tackling cybercrime through collaboration with the private sector, the Authority clarified that it does not serve as a direct regulator for telecommunications companies. Instead, it serves as a technical partner providing expertise to enhance the digital financial ecosystem. The CSA emphasized that mobile money fraud is a systemic issue that transcends any single service provider, requiring a unified national response. Customers are urged to maintain a high level of vigilance and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities immediately to help create a safer digital environment for all Ghanaians.