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.

Getty A group of four people gathered outside a building. One is holding a green sign which reads "Musk v Altman - Everyone Sucks Here - Musk = Altman".
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Elon Musk Accuses OpenAI Lawyers of Deception During High-Stakes Testimony Over For-Profit Shift

Elon Musk took the stand for a second day of combative testimony in his ongoing legal battle against OpenAI, the artificial intelligence organization he helped co-found. The tech billionaire expressed visible frustration during the proceedings, accusing the legal team representing OpenAI of attempting to "trick" and mislead him through their line of questioning. The lawsuit, which names OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman as defendants, alleges that the organization breached its founding mission by transitioning from a non-profit entity dedicated to the public good into a commercial, for-profit model focused on private gain. Musk’s legal strategy aims to recover what he characterizes as "wrongful gains" resulting from this shift, with the intention of redirecting those funds back into OpenAI’s original non-profit mission. Throughout his testimony, Musk has maintained that his involvement in the early stages of the company was driven by a desire to ensure that transformative AI technologies were developed transparently and for the benefit of humanity. Beyond financial restitution, the lawsuit is also seeking a court-ordered shake-up of the company’s current leadership structure. In a robust defense, OpenAI has dismissed Musk’s claims as being motivated by professional jealousy and competitive spite. Defense lawyers pointed to the success of ChatGPT and the subsequent launch of Musk’s own AI venture, xAI, as evidence that the lawsuit is an attempt to hamper a market rival. They argue that the organization's current structure is a necessary evolution to secure the massive computational resources required for cutting-edge AI development, a move they suggest Musk only opposed after his own influence over the company diminished. As the case enters its third week of testimony, the outcome could have profound implications for the future of the artificial intelligence industry and the legal standards for non-profit governance. The trial highlights the growing tension between the altruistic origins of AI research and the intense commercial pressures of the global tech race. A ruling in Musk’s favor could potentially disrupt the operations of one of the world’s most influential tech firms and set a precedent for how original founding charters are enforced in the face of commercial expansion.

From NSMQ Star to Tech Innovator: Benjamin Nketsiah Honored for AI Breast Cancer Detection App
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From NSMQ Star to Tech Innovator: Benjamin Nketsiah Honored for AI Breast Cancer Detection App

Odadeɛ Benjamin Nketsiah, a standout performer and champion of the 2020 National Science and Mathematics Quiz (NSMQ) for Presbyterian Boys' Secondary School (PRESEC-Legon), has received prestigious recognition for his pioneering work in health technology. His AI-powered project, titled "She’s Strong," focuses on the early detection of triple-negative breast cancer, a particularly aggressive form of the disease. This achievement, recognized at Michigan State University, includes a $1,000 award towards his tuition, marking a significant milestone for the young innovator who is now applying his academic prowess to address critical healthcare gaps in West Africa. The "She's Strong" application utilizes the sophisticated Tyrer-Cuzick model to evaluate a user’s risk of developing breast cancer. By integrating artificial intelligence, the platform offers a streamlined pathway for individuals to assess their health status and, crucially, connects those at high risk directly with local clinicians. Nketsiah’s initiative is particularly timely given the prevalence of breast cancer in Ghana and the broader West African region, where late diagnosis often hampers successful treatment outcomes. The project is supported by a non-profit organization founded by Nketsiah, which aims to provide community-level assistance and education to combat the disease effectively. While the application represents a major leap in accessible health technology, Nketsiah emphasizes that the tool is designed to complement, not replace, professional medical consultation. Its primary function is to serve as an early warning system, encouraging users to seek formal medical intervention at a stage when treatment is most effective. As healthcare systems globally lean more into digital transformation, Nketsiah’s work exemplifies how young Ghanaian scholars are leveraging international academic platforms to build solutions tailored to local challenges, potentially saving lives through the strategic application of artificial intelligence.

Ghana Unveils Ambitious National AI Strategy to Drive Economic Growth and Tech Sovereignty by 2035
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Ghana Unveils Ambitious National AI Strategy to Drive Economic Growth and Tech Sovereignty by 2035

Ghana has launched a transformative National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy, setting a bold course to become Africa’s primary hub for AI and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) by 2035. This comprehensive framework is designed to integrate advanced technology into the fabric of the nation’s economy, targeting a massive contribution of GH₵200 billion to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2030, and GH₵500 billion by 2035. By focusing on eight strategic pillars—including education, infrastructure, and data governance—the government aims to harness AI as a catalyst for industrialization and sustainable development.\n\nAt the heart of this strategy is the development of a self-sustaining ecosystem that prioritizes local innovation and data sovereignty. Key initiatives include the establishment of a dedicated AGI laboratory and the ambitious goal of nurturing ten "AI unicorns"—startups valued at over $1 billion. To protect sensitive national information, the government plans to launch "GhanaChat," a sovereign AI system that ensures data remains within national borders. This move reflects a growing global trend toward technological independence, ensuring that Ghana’s digital evolution is managed and secured by domestic frameworks.\n\nRecognizing the importance of human capital, the strategy mirrors India’s successful IT sector model by pledging to train one million young Ghanaians in AI and related technologies. This educational push is intended to equip the workforce for a future where AI serves as a productivity tool rather than a replacement for human labor. Current applications in healthcare, finance, and government services are already demonstrating the technology's potential to improve service delivery. By positioning AI as a partner to human intelligence, Ghana seeks to mitigate unemployment fears while modernizing its economic landscape for the mid-21st century.

GIFEC Distributes Thousands of Laptops to Boost One Million Coders Initiative Across Ghana
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GIFEC Distributes Thousands of Laptops to Boost One Million Coders Initiative Across Ghana

The Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) has significantly accelerated the national "One Million Coders Program" by distributing nearly 3,000 laptops across the Upper West and Greater Accra Regions. This strategic rollout aims to bridge the digital divide by equipping citizens with essential coding skills, preparing them for the competitive demands of the modern global economy. While the Upper West Region is currently launching its initial phase of localized training, the Greater Accra Region is preparing for a massive constituency-level implementation scheduled to commence in May 2026. In the Upper West Region, 350 laptops were handed over to the Regional Coordinating Council to facilitate training across seven designated centers. Each center has been allocated 50 units pre-loaded with specialized coding software to ensure immediate functionality. Regional Minister Charles Lwanga Puozuing announced that registration is currently open for the first 50 participants at each center, emphasizing that the program is designed for total inclusivity. Unlike traditional academic programs, this initiative is open to all Ghanaians regardless of age, including the elderly, and features flexible morning-to-evening schedules to accommodate workers, students, and traders. Meanwhile, the Greater Accra Region has received a substantial resource boost with the distribution of 2,400 laptops. These devices were received by Regional Minister Linda Ocloo and are earmarked for distribution across 23 constituencies through local Members of Parliament. This larger-scale rollout is part of a strategic roadmap to ensure that the capital region is fully equipped before its official program kickoff. The distribution underscores the government’s commitment to providing the necessary hardware to support the ambitious goal of training one million citizens in digital programming and software development to strengthen the nation’s workforce. The program is being implemented in systematic phases to ensure manageable growth and effective resource allocation. While districts such as Jirapa and Lambussie in the Upper West are scheduled for subsequent phases, the current momentum signals a transformative shift in Ghana's educational and technological landscape. By fostering digital inclusion and creating a sustainable pipeline of tech talent, the One Million Coders initiative seeks to position Ghana as a leading African hub for innovation and economic growth through digital transformation.

Lady Margaret Foundation Launches 'Tech Accelerate 2026' to Empower Youth with Digital and Creative Skills
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Lady Margaret Foundation Launches 'Tech Accelerate 2026' to Empower Youth with Digital and Creative Skills

The Lady Margaret Foundation has officially launched its 'Tech Accelerate 2026' initiative, a strategic program designed to empower Ghanaian youth with critical digital and creative competencies. Held at the Stanbic Innovation Centre in Accra, the intensive training targeted individuals between the ages of 16 and 35, aiming to bridge the widening gap between raw potential and practical, market-ready skills. By focusing on high-demand technical areas, the foundation seeks to enhance both employability and the spirit of entrepreneurship among the nation's younger demographic, ensuring they are prepared for the evolving global economy. Over the course of the three-day program, participants underwent rigorous training sessions led by seasoned industry professionals. The curriculum was intentionally broad, covering foundational and advanced skills such as web development, graphic design, and the practical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. Beyond technical coding and design, the program also delved into creative arts, including videography and photography. This multifaceted approach was designed to cater to the diverse interests of the youth while providing them with the versatility needed to excel in a variety of digital roles. The impact of the sessions was immediately evident, with many participants reporting a significant boost in their confidence and technical competence. Particular interest was noted in the fields of content creation and digital marketing, sectors that are increasingly vital for small business owners and independent contractors in Ghana. By providing direct access to expert insights and hands-on practice, the foundation facilitated a learning environment where youth could not only acquire new skills but also understand how to monetize them effectively within a competitive landscape. Ultimately, 'Tech Accelerate 2026' represents a broader commitment to long-term youth development and economic resilience in Ghana. As the country continues to position itself as a growing digital hub in West Africa, initiatives of this nature are crucial for ensuring that the local workforce is not left behind by rapid technological advancements. The Lady Margaret Foundation's focus on bridging the digital skills gap suggests a sustainable model for youth empowerment that successfully pairs technical education with the entrepreneurial mindset necessary for future economic prosperity.

The Digital Illusion: How Streaming Farms and Bots are Rigging the Global Music Industry
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The Digital Illusion: How Streaming Farms and Bots are Rigging the Global Music Industry

The global music industry has undergone a massive digital transformation, with platforms like Spotify and Apple Music becoming the dominant force in how we consume sound. As of 2024, the sector boasts over 600 million users and generates an impressive $19 billion in annual revenue. However, beneath this surface of unprecedented growth lies a growing technological threat known as "streaming farms." These operations utilize sophisticated networks of automated bots and fake accounts to artificially inflate song play counts, creating a "success by numbers" culture that distorts reality and undermines the very foundation of the modern music business. These streaming farms operate by mimicking genuine human listening behaviors, making it increasingly difficult for platforms to distinguish between real fans and malicious code. By generating thousands—or even millions—of fraudulent streams, these entities can manipulate global music charts and misrepresent a song’s actual popularity. This deceptive feedback loop creates a massive hurdle for authentic artists who rely on organic engagement. Instead of the "savior" of the music industry that streaming was promised to be, the rise of these farms has introduced a new form of digital rigging that threatens the financial equity and artistic integrity of the entire ecosystem. The consequences of this manipulation extend far beyond vanity metrics; they have a direct financial impact on the industry. Because streaming payouts are often based on a pro-rata model, fraudulent streams effectively siphon revenue away from legitimate creators. In response, technology companies are increasingly turning to advanced machine learning algorithms to detect and purge suspicious activity. However, as the manipulators evolve, experts argue that more radical solutions may be necessary. Discussions are now centering on the implementation of blockchain technology for transparent verification and the adoption of user-centric payment models to ensure that a subscriber's money goes directly to the artists they actually listen to.

NPRA Digital Revolution: Modernizing Ghana’s Pension Sector Through Technology
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NPRA Digital Revolution: Modernizing Ghana’s Pension Sector Through Technology

The National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) has officially embarked on a transformative journey with the launch of the Pension Digitalization Project (PDE), a landmark initiative designed to modernize Ghana’s pension administration. This project seeks to move the sector away from antiquated manual processes by centralizing and streamlining operations through advanced digital infrastructure. As a cornerstone of the country's broader digitalization agenda, the PDE is set to redefine how pension schemes are managed, ensuring that the system is more robust, transparent, and capable of meeting the needs of a modern workforce. Central to this digital revolution is the integration of cutting-edge technology that enhances the user experience for contributors and administrators alike. The PDE introduces digital registration for all contributors, complemented by real-time tracking of pension contributions to eliminate discrepancies and delays. A significant feature of this upgrade is the adoption of biometric verification powered by the GhanaCard, which serves to secure identities and prevent fraudulent activities. Furthermore, the inclusion of mobile payment options represents a major shift toward financial inclusion, allowing workers—particularly those in the informal sector—to contribute to their pensions with unprecedented ease. For employers and service providers, the digitalization of the pension economy simplifies administrative burdens and improves compliance. By providing a unified platform for reporting and payments, the NPRA is fostering a more efficient ecosystem where regulatory oversight is strengthened. This enhanced transparency allows the NPRA to monitor the flow of funds more effectively, ensuring that contributors' interests are protected and that pension fund managers adhere to the highest standards of financial integrity. This move is expected to build greater public trust in the national pension system. Looking forward, the Pension Digitalization Project positions Ghana at the forefront of international best practices in pension management. By leveraging fintech solutions and biometric data, the NPRA is creating a smarter, faster, and more inclusive future for the country's retirees. This initiative not only supports the immediate goal of administrative efficiency but also contributes to the long-term stability of the Ghanaian economy by mobilizing domestic savings through a modernized, technology-driven pension framework.

South Africa Withdraws National AI Policy Draft Following Discovery of Fictitious AI-Generated Citations
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South Africa Withdraws National AI Policy Draft Following Discovery of Fictitious AI-Generated Citations

In a significant setback for South Africa's digital governance ambitions, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies has officially retracted its first draft national policy on Artificial Intelligence. The decision follows the revelation that the document contained numerous fictitious citations and references, which were evidently generated by an AI tool without proper human verification. Communications Minister Solly Malatsi announced the withdrawal, emphasizing that the inclusion of fabricated data has severely compromised the credibility of the policy and the department's integrity. The draft policy was originally intended to serve as a strategic roadmap to position South Africa as a regional leader in AI innovation. It proposed a comprehensive framework to tackle complex ethical and social challenges while fostering economic growth through technological advancement. Among the key initiatives outlined were the establishment of a National AI Commission and an AI Ethics Board to oversee the deployment of these technologies. Additionally, the policy suggested creating various incentives to encourage collaboration between the government and the private sector to accelerate the country's digital transition. However, the discovery of 'hallucinated' sources has sparked a national conversation about the risks of automated content generation in public administration. Minister Malatsi highlighted the irony of a policy designed to regulate AI being undermined by the misuse of the very technology it sought to govern. The Minister has underscored the necessity for rigorous human oversight in the use of AI tools and indicated that there will be consequences for the individuals responsible for the drafting process, as the department seeks to restore public trust. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the limitations of Large Language Models (LLMs) and the critical need for fact-checking in high-stakes environments. While the South African government remains committed to developing a robust AI framework, the current draft will now undergo a thorough revision process to ensure all data and citations are accurate. The move underscores a growing global consensus that while AI can assist in administrative tasks, human accountability remains indispensable in the creation of national policy and legislative frameworks.

Volta Region Boosts Digital Literacy with 900 Laptops for One Million Coders Programme
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Volta Region Boosts Digital Literacy with 900 Laptops for One Million Coders Programme

The Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) has officially received 900 Lenovo laptops and accompanying accessories to facilitate the rollout of the "One Million Coders Programme" within the Volta Region. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, aims to equip the Ghanaian youth with critical coding and digital skills to enhance their employability and foster a culture of local innovation. By providing the necessary hardware, the government is laying the groundwork for a more digitally inclusive economy, ensuring that young people in the region are not left behind in the global technological race. Delivered through the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), the equipment is slated for distribution across 16 beneficiary districts in the first phase, with plans to include two additional districts shortly. Alhaji Mohammed Avona Akape, the Chief Director of the VRCC, has assured the public of the secure handling and strategic allocation of these resources. The provision of these laptops is essential for the practical implementation of the training, which seeks to move beyond theoretical knowledge to hands-on experience in various digital competencies. Interest in the program has already proven significant, with over 2,000 individuals registering within just a few days of the application window opening. This surge in sign-ups underscores the high demand for digital literacy among the youth in the Volta Region. Training is scheduled to begin on May 4, marking a pivotal moment for the regional education sector. The curriculum is designed to be comprehensive, covering a spectrum of skills that are increasingly required in the modern workforce, from basic software development to advanced digital problem-solving. As the One Million Coders Programme scales, it represents a vital component of Ghana’s broader digital transformation agenda. By narrowing the digital divide and empowering the next generation with marketable tech skills, the initiative is expected to drive economic growth and reduce unemployment. The success of the rollout in the Volta Region will serve as a critical benchmark for the program’s expansion across the country, potentially transforming Ghana into a leading hub for digital talent in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Glow Safe: Ghanaian Cybersecurity Expert Uses Beauty Analogies to Empower Women Online
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Glow Safe: Ghanaian Cybersecurity Expert Uses Beauty Analogies to Empower Women Online

Xornam Dzidzornu, a seasoned Ghanaian cybersecurity professional, has launched an innovative initiative titled "Glow Safe" to bridge the gap between digital safety and the beauty industry. The campaign is specifically designed to demystify complex technical concepts for women by using relatable beauty and lifestyle analogies. By integrating cybersecurity education into the spaces where women already engage—such as the beauty and wellness sectors—Dzidzornu aims to ensure that online safety becomes an intuitive part of daily digital life for users who might otherwise find technical jargon intimidating. With nearly two decades of experience in the cybersecurity field, Dzidzornu brings a wealth of expertise to this mission. She draws a powerful parallel between "digital hygiene" and skincare routines, suggesting that just as one protects their skin from external damage, digital users must proactively protect their personal data and online identities. Throughout her career, she has mentored over 50 individuals, with a particular focus on helping women navigate the evolving tech landscape. Her campaign leverages this extensive background to translate high-level security protocols into accessible advice that resonates with the lifestyle and social media habits of her audience. The initiative comes at a critical time as digital engagement continues to rise across Ghana, often leaving users vulnerable to sophisticated phishing, identity theft, and online harassment. By empowering women to embrace digital awareness alongside their passion for beauty, the "Glow Safe" campaign seeks to build a more resilient and informed community of female digital citizens. Dzidzornu’s mission underscores the necessity of making technology education inclusive and culturally relevant, ultimately fostering a safer digital environment where personal expression and robust security coexist seamlessly.

Deezer A picture of Deezer's app which highlights the tag telling users whether the music is AI generated
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The Battle for Authenticity: Taylor Swift and Music Fans Lead Global Pushback Against AI-Generated Content

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping the landscape of the music and entertainment industries, sparking a two-pronged battle over digital identity and content transparency. Global superstar Taylor Swift has taken a landmark legal step by filing three trademark applications in the United States to protect her voice and likeness from AI exploitation. This proactive move, which includes specific imagery from her record-breaking Eras Tour and audio clips from promotional material, marks a significant shift in how public figures safeguard their personal brands. While artists have traditionally relied on copyright and publicity laws, the ease with which AI can now generate convincing deepfakes has forced a move toward trademarking as a more robust defense against unauthorized imitations and identical reproductions. This legal maneuver by high-profile celebrities—including others like Matthew McConaughey and Scarlett Johansson who have expressed similar concerns—is mirrored by growing discontent among music consumers. Listeners are increasingly vocal about the infiltration of AI-generated tracks on major streaming platforms, which many feel devalues human creativity. On Spotify, the lack of native tools to identify or filter out non-human content has led to the development of independent solutions. Developer Cedrik Sixtus recently introduced the "Spotify AI Blocker," a tool designed to label and filter over 4,700 suspected AI-generated artists. Sixtus and a growing number of listeners are demanding greater transparency and user control, arguing that current streaming features fail to distinguish between human artistry and algorithmic output. The music industry remains deeply divided on how to manage this technological influx while maintaining user trust. While competitors like Deezer have already begun implementing tagging systems to clearly identify AI music, Spotify continues to navigate a complex path, attempting to balance the economic potential of AI with the need to protect the integrity of its catalog. As AI capabilities continue to improve, the pressure is mounting for the establishment of global standards and clear labeling requirements. The actions of both individual artists like Swift and grassroots consumer movements highlight a critical turning point: the industry must soon decide whether to embrace an AI-integrated future or double down on the legal and technological barriers that protect human identity.

Auris: Revolutionizing Organizational Efficiency through Internal Intelligence and Collective Knowledge
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Auris: Revolutionizing Organizational Efficiency through Internal Intelligence and Collective Knowledge

Auris, a newly introduced internal intelligence platform, is set to redefine how organizations manage and utilize their collective knowledge. Developed by Andurar and powered by Andurar Cloud Services (ACS), the platform addresses a pervasive challenge in modern business: the significant loss of time and productivity caused by employees searching through fragmented emails, records, and databases. By centralizing access to internal information, Auris transforms passive data into an active, searchable asset, ensuring that every member of an organization can leverage the institution's combined expertise with unprecedented speed. Technologically, Auris goes beyond traditional search engines by reading and comprehending the full spectrum of a company’s internal data. Through its integration with Andurar’s robust cloud infrastructure, the platform provides rapid and context-aware responses to complex queries. This capability eliminates the inefficiencies of manual information retrieval, allowing staff to move past the drudgery of digging through archives. Furthermore, the system is designed with a focus on data security and regulatory compliance, ensuring that sensitive corporate information remains protected while being made more accessible to authorized users. The business implications of such a tool are profound. By providing immediate answers, Auris enables leadership and staff to make informed decisions faster, reducing the likelihood of missed opportunities and allowing for the early identification of potential risks. The platform is built to evolve alongside the organization, continuously learning and adapting as the company grows and its data landscape changes. This ensures that institutional knowledge is not lost during staff transitions but remains a permanent, actionable resource for the entire workforce. Ultimately, the launch of Auris reflects a broader shift toward data-driven efficiency in the corporate sector. Andurar’s emphasis on reliable technology and effective execution underscores a commitment to supporting business growth through smarter data management. As organizations continue to navigate increasingly complex digital environments, tools like Auris will likely become essential for maintaining a competitive edge, turning the "internal intelligence" of a company into its most significant strategic advantage.