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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Ministry of Foreign Affairs Works with National Signals Bureau to Resolve Passport Portal Outage

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has announced a temporary suspension of services on the national online passport application portal due to significant technical challenges. The outage affects the official website, passport.mfa.gov.gh, which serves as the primary gateway for Ghanaians both at home and in the diaspora to apply for or renew their travel documents. In a statement confirming the disruption, the Ministry noted that its technical teams are working around the clock to restore the system to full functionality. To address the underlying issues, the Ministry’s technical department is collaborating closely with the National Signals Bureau (NSB). While the specific nature of the technical fault—whether it involves hardware failure, software glitches, or a security-related intervention—has not been publicly disclosed, the involvement of the NSB highlights the critical nature of the digital infrastructure underpinning the passport issuance process. The Ministry has expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to the public, particularly those with urgent travel needs or pending appointments at various Passport Application Centers (PACs). This disruption comes at a time when the government is intensifying efforts to digitize public services to reduce human interference and improve efficiency. The online portal was designed to streamline the application process, allowing users to pay fees through mobile money or bank cards and book biometric capture appointments online. The current downtime effectively halts this streamlined workflow, potentially creating a backlog of applications that the Ministry will need to address once the system is restored. As of the latest update, no specific timeline has been provided for when the portal will be fully operational. The Ministry has assured the general public that updates will be provided as soon as progress is made. In the interim, applicants are advised to monitor the Ministry’s official communication channels for further instructions. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges of maintaining robust digital infrastructure as Ghana continues its digital transformation journey under the leadership of President John Mahama.

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Cyber Security Authority Cautions Journalists Against Exposing Vulnerabilities During National Training

Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has called on media practitioners to exercise heightened caution and professional responsibility when reporting on cybercrime and digital vulnerabilities. Speaking at a specialized training session for journalists, the CSA highlighted the delicate balance between the public’s right to information and the requirements of national security. The authority warned that the premature or unverified disclosure of technical flaws could inadvertently provide a roadmap for cybercriminals, potentially leading to more frequent and damaging attacks on both public and private digital infrastructure. Alex Awere-Kyere, Senior Manager at the CSA, spearheaded the session as part of the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project. He emphasized that while the media is a crucial partner in the fight against digital threats, inaccurate or sensationalized reporting can disrupt sensitive ongoing investigations. Awere-Kyere urged journalists to avoid publishing unverified claims related to cybercrime, noting that such actions not only aid malicious actors but can also compromise the integrity of evidence being gathered by law enforcement agencies. The training initiative specifically aims to enhance the technical understanding of journalists, particularly those working within community media who are often the first to report on local incidents. By equipping media practitioners with a better grasp of cybersecurity fundamentals, the CSA hopes to foster a more informed narrative that prioritizes accuracy over speed. Awere-Kyere reiterated that the media's primary role in this sector should be to educate the public on safety measures and preventive protocols rather than inadvertently exposing the vulnerabilities of the nation’s digital systems. As Ghana continues its digital transformation journey under the current administration of President John Mahama, the security of digital platforms has become a matter of paramount national concern. The CSA’s outreach to the media underscores a broader strategy to create a resilient cybersecurity ecosystem through public-private collaboration. Moving forward, the authority plans to maintain these educational engagements, ensuring that as the country’s digital footprint grows, the journalists tasked with reporting on it remain a pillar of national security awareness.

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Meta Engages in Settlement Talks with US States Over Youth Social Media Addiction Lawsuit

Meta Platforms is reportedly in discussions with several US state attorneys general to reach a mid-trial settlement over allegations that its core social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram, were intentionally designed to be addictive to young users. The legal action, which involves 29 states, represents one of the most significant legal challenges to date concerning the impact of social media algorithms on the mental health and well-being of minors. These discussions are taking place even as a federal court trial remains active, signaling a potential shift in the tech giant's strategy to resolve the high-stakes litigation outside of a final court verdict. The lawsuit centers on the claim that Meta's platforms utilize features that exploit the psychological vulnerabilities of children and teenagers to maximize engagement, leading to what critics and state officials describe as a crisis of youth mental health. Beyond the allegations of addictive design, the states argue that Meta has violated both state and federal laws regarding the privacy of children. Attorneys general have contended that the company was aware of the harms its products caused but prioritized profit and user growth over the safety and development of its youngest users. Throughout the legal proceedings, Meta has steadfastly denied these allegations, asserting its commitment to protecting children online. The company maintains that it has developed and implemented numerous tools and features designed to provide parents with greater control and to limit the exposure of minors to harmful content. Meta’s defense emphasizes that social media addiction is a complex societal issue and that its platforms offer vital spaces for connection and community. However, the pressure of a public trial and the potential for significant financial penalties appear to have brought the company to the negotiating table. Should a settlement be reached, it could set a major precedent for how social media companies are regulated and held accountable for their impact on younger populations globally. For digital regulators and parents in Ghana, where social media penetration continues to grow rapidly, the outcome of this US-based case will likely influence future safety standards and legislative frameworks regarding Big Tech. As the trial continues in the interim, observers are watching closely to see if Meta will commit to substantive changes in its algorithmic design as part of any final agreement.

Telecel Ghana Partners with Whalebone to Launch SecureNet Cybersecurity for Mobile Users
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Telecel Ghana Partners with Whalebone to Launch SecureNet Cybersecurity for Mobile Users

Telecel Ghana has announced a strategic partnership with global cybersecurity firm Whalebone to introduce SecureNet, a robust network-level security service designed to protect mobile customers from a growing array of digital threats. Launched at a time when cybercrime is on the rise across the continent, SecureNet aims to safeguard users against phishing attempts, malware, and other malicious online content. This initiative marks a significant step in the telecommunications provider's efforts to ensure a safer browsing experience for its subscribers within Ghana's rapidly evolving digital landscape. Unlike traditional security solutions that require users to download and update specialized software, SecureNet operates directly at the network level. This means that protection is seamless and universal across all devices connected to the Telecel network, without the need for manual installations or complex configurations. The service provides real-time monitoring and automatically blocks access to harmful websites and suspicious scam links, effectively creating a first line of defense before a threat can reach the user's mobile device. Aneth Muga, Telecel Ghana’s Director of Consumer Business, highlighted the urgency of this intervention, noting that as connectivity increases, so does the vulnerability of users to sophisticated cyberattacks. She emphasized that the company’s priority is to provide a secure environment where customers can navigate the internet with peace of mind. By reducing the risks associated with online transactions and browsing, Telecel aims to foster greater consumer confidence in digital services, which is essential for the sustained growth of Ghana’s digital economy. The service is being rolled out with various subscription options to accommodate different user needs and budgets. This flexibility ensures that security is accessible to a wide demographic, from casual browsers to heavy data users. As digital adoption continues to accelerate, initiatives like SecureNet are expected to play a critical role in mitigating the impact of cybercrime and protecting the integrity of personal data for millions of Ghanaians.

MTN Ghana Equips Media and Civil Society with Essential Artificial Intelligence Training and Ethical Guidelines
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MTN Ghana Equips Media and Civil Society with Essential Artificial Intelligence Training and Ethical Guidelines

On August 24, 2026, MTN Ghana spearheaded a comprehensive training workshop designed to empower members of the media and civil society organizations (CSOs) with the skills needed to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the transformative potential of AI in Ghana's information ecosystem and the urgent need for professional stakeholders to use these tools responsibly. By bringing together journalists and advocates, the telecommunications giant aimed to bridge the gap between technical innovation and ethical application. Led by industry experts Samuel Adranyi and Kwame Manu, the session delved into the practical implications of AI technology, offering hands-on demonstrations with popular tools such as ChatGPT. The facilitators emphasized that while AI can significantly enhance productivity and creative output, it must be approached with a critical eye. A major focus of the training was the imperative of data privacy and security; participants were strongly cautioned against inputting confidential or sensitive information into public AI systems, as these platforms often store and process user data in ways that could compromise privacy. Beyond technical operation, the workshop addressed the ethical risks associated with automated content generation. Experts highlighted the dangers of AI hallucinations and the potential for the spread of misinformation if AI-generated text is not rigorously verified by human editors. The training underscored that AI should be viewed as a collaborative tool rather than a replacement for human judgment. For media professionals especially, the message was clear: maintaining journalistic integrity requires a human-in-the-loop approach to ensure accuracy and accountability in every story published. This training session marks a proactive step by MTN Ghana to foster a tech-savvy and ethically grounded professional class in the country. As AI continues to integrate into various sectors of the Ghanaian economy, such capacity-building efforts are vital for ensuring that technological advancement does not come at the cost of security or public trust. Moving forward, the participants are expected to act as ambassadors for responsible AI use, championing best practices within their respective organizations to safeguard the digital future of the nation.

TikTok and ByteDance to Pay $400 Million Settlement Over US Child Privacy Violations
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TikTok and ByteDance to Pay $400 Million Settlement Over US Child Privacy Violations

TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, have agreed to a $400 million settlement with the U.S. government to resolve allegations of violating child privacy laws. The legal action, which originated from a 2024 lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice, accused the platform of collecting extensive personal data from users under the age of 13 without obtaining parental consent. This settlement marks one of the most significant penalties to date for violations of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), reflecting a tightening regulatory environment for global social media platforms. The financial terms of the agreement specify an immediate payment of $300 million to the U.S. Treasury, with an additional $100 million contingent upon the resolution and vacating of a previous consent decree involving the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Beyond the monetary fine, the lawsuit highlighted systemic failures within TikTok's account creation process, where minors were allegedly allowed to bypass age restrictions. Furthermore, the company was accused of failing to honor parental requests to delete their children's data, a key requirement under federal privacy laws designed to protect minors in digital spaces. Since the lawsuit was first initiated, TikTok has undergone significant organizational and technical shifts. The company has publicly stated that it has introduced enhanced privacy measures and more robust age-verification systems to better protect its younger demographic. These changes have occurred alongside broader corporate restructuring and ownership changes within ByteDance, as the platform seeks to maintain its operations in the United States while complying with increasingly stringent data management standards. These efforts represent a push to restore trust with both regulators and the platform's vast user base. This settlement is part of a broader trend of regulatory enforcement against major tech firms, following similar legal challenges faced by industry giants like Google and Epic Games. As digital safety becomes a top priority for governments worldwide, the $400 million penalty serves as a benchmark for future accountability in the tech industry. For TikTok, the resolution of this case is a critical step in navigating its complex legal landscape, though it remains a focal point for ongoing discussions about the intersection of innovation, data privacy, and the protection of vulnerable users.

NITA Warns Persistent Power Outages and Vandalism Threaten to Drive Up Internet Costs in Ghana
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NITA Warns Persistent Power Outages and Vandalism Threaten to Drive Up Internet Costs in Ghana

The National Information Technology Agency (NITA) has issued a stern warning that the current wave of persistent power outages across Ghana could lead to a significant hike in the cost of internet and digital services. Speaking at the conclusion of National ICT Week 2026, NITA Board Chairperson Estelle Akofio-Sowah explained that telecommunications operators are being forced to divert substantial capital into backup power systems and redundant infrastructure to keep data centers and networks operational. This increased capital expenditure, driven by the need to mitigate the impact of frequent electricity disruptions, directly threatens the affordability of digital services for the average Ghanaian. Beyond the energy crisis, the agency highlighted a staggering surge in physical infrastructure damage, reporting over 8,000 fiber optic cable cuts within the year. Ms. Akofio-Sowah noted that these disruptions are largely the result of deliberate vandalism and poorly coordinated construction activities, which further escalate repair and maintenance costs for service providers. The combined pressure of maintaining power stability and repairing sabotaged cables is creating a structural strain on the telecommunications sector, which risks stalling the nation's digital transformation goals if left unaddressed. Despite these infrastructure hurdles, stakeholders at the event pointed to the immense untapped potential within Ghana’s digital economy, particularly in the gaming and Esports sectors. Data shared during the summit revealed that Ghanaians spent approximately $121 million on video games in 2025, highlighting a lucrative market that could provide significant income-generation opportunities for the youth. However, experts emphasized that for the country to truly benefit, there must be a strategic shift from being mere consumers of foreign digital content to becoming innovative creators and developers within the local tech ecosystem. The week-long deliberations concluded with an urgent call for the government and private sector to collaborate on securing critical national infrastructure. Stakeholders urged for enhanced investment in a reliable national power grid and stricter enforcement against the vandalism of telecommunications assets. As President John Mahama’s administration continues to push for a more robust digital economy, the consensus from National ICT Week remains clear: the long-term sustainability of Ghana's tech future depends heavily on the availability of affordable, reliable, and secure digital infrastructure.

CSA Director General Divine Selase Agbeti Mandates Strict Compliance to Safeguard Ghana's Critical Digital Infrastructure
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CSA Director General Divine Selase Agbeti Mandates Strict Compliance to Safeguard Ghana's Critical Digital Infrastructure

The Director General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), Divine Selase Agbeti, has issued a firm directive calling for heightened regulatory compliance and accountability to strengthen Ghana’s national cyber resilience. Emphasizing that the vision of 'resetting Ghana' must be grounded in a culture of adherence to security standards, the CSA has announced plans to intensify enforcement of the Directive for the Protection of Critical Information Infrastructure (CII). This move is designed to ensure that the entities responsible for the nation’s most vital digital systems are fully equipped and legally compliant in the face of evolving global cyber threats. In a significant shift toward stricter oversight, designated owners of Critical Information Infrastructure are now subject to stringent reporting requirements. According to the CSA, these entities must report any cybersecurity incidents within 24 hours of discovery and disclose any identified vulnerabilities within a 72-hour window. Furthermore, the Authority has restricted the provision of cybersecurity services to only licensed Tier 1 Cybersecurity Service Providers. This measure ensures that only qualified and vetted professionals are tasked with protecting the nation's high-stakes digital assets, thereby minimizing the risk of internal failures or external exploitation. Director General Agbeti underscored that the protection of critical infrastructure is not merely a technical requirement but a core national security priority. By standardizing the quality of service providers and mandating transparency through incident reporting, the CSA aims to create a robust defense mechanism that protects public services, financial systems, and essential communications networks. Stakeholders across various sectors are urged to adhere strictly to these established requirements, as the CSA has warned that non-compliance will lead to decisive enforcement actions, including potential penalties for those who fail to meet the mandatory safety protocols.

NCA Director General Rev. Ing. Edmund Fianko Outlines Plan to Bridge Ghana's Digital Divide at GJA Symposium
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NCA Director General Rev. Ing. Edmund Fianko Outlines Plan to Bridge Ghana's Digital Divide at GJA Symposium

Rev. Ing. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, the Director General of the National Communications Authority (NCA), has emphasized that bridging the digital divide is an essential prerequisite for strengthening Ghana’s democracy and ensuring full civic participation. Speaking at the 77th Anniversary Symposium of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Fianko noted that in an increasingly digitized world, access to information and technology is no longer a luxury but a fundamental right necessary for citizens to engage effectively with the state. He highlighted that without equitable access to digital tools, large segments of the population remain marginalized from the national discourse. To address these connectivity gaps, the NCA is currently leading a major infrastructure expansion in collaboration with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). Fianko revealed that the authority is facilitating the rollout of over 500 new telecommunication sites and overseeing extensive upgrades to existing network installations across the country. These initiatives are specifically designed to improve signal strength and data accessibility in rural and underserved areas, aligning with the broader national agenda to foster an inclusive digital economy under the current administration of President John Mahama. Furthermore, the Director General addressed the critical intersection of technology and journalism, urging the media to maintain high ethical standards amidst rapid technological changes. He argued that while innovation is necessary for the media to remain relevant, it must be balanced with a commitment to truth and responsibility. Fianko called on journalists to be at the forefront of the fight against misinformation, stressing that the provision of trusted, verified information is vital for a healthy democratic process. By leveraging new digital tools ethically, the media can serve as a bridge between the government’s technological initiatives and the public’s need for transparency. In conclusion, the NCA’s strategy focuses on a dual approach: building the physical infrastructure necessary for universal connectivity while promoting a culture of responsible information sharing. As Ghana continues its digital transformation, the collaboration between regulators, service providers, and the media will be pivotal in ensuring that technological advancements translate into meaningful democratic empowerment for all citizens. This comprehensive effort aims to create a future where every Ghanaian, regardless of location, can participate fully in the nation's progress.

NITA Warns Persistent Power Outages and Infrastructure Vandalism Threaten Ghana's Digital Service Affordability
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NITA Warns Persistent Power Outages and Infrastructure Vandalism Threaten Ghana's Digital Service Affordability

The National Information Technology Agency (NITA) has warned that Ghana's persistent and unpredictable power outages are driving up the cost of internet and digital services. Speaking at the National ICT Week 2026, NITA Chairperson Estelle Akofio-Sowah explained that telecommunications operators and data center managers are being forced to invest heavily in expensive backup power systems to maintain service continuity. These rising operational costs, she noted, place a significant strain on the industry's financial health and directly threaten the affordability of digital services for the average Ghanaian consumer. The instability of the national grid not only disrupts daily operations but also risks damaging sensitive digital infrastructure that is critical to the country's connectivity. Beyond the energy crisis, the telecommunications sector is grappling with a staggering increase in infrastructure damage. NITA reported that more than 8,000 fiber cuts have occurred within the current year alone, with the majority attributed to deliberate acts of vandalism. These disruptions further escalate repair costs and service downtime, complicating the efforts of providers to deliver reliable internet access. Stakeholders at the event emphasized that the combination of power instability and criminal interference with equipment creates a hostile environment for digital growth, requiring urgent intervention from both security agencies and utility providers to safeguard the nation's technological backbone. Despite these challenges, the digital economy remains a sector of immense potential, particularly within the burgeoning gaming and Esports industry. Data shared during the forum revealed that Ghanaians spent approximately $121 million on games in 2025, highlighting a lucrative market that could provide significant employment and income opportunities for the youth. Industry experts and NITA officials urged a strategic shift from being mere consumers of digital content to becoming creators and innovators. They argued that by developing local tech skills and fostering a culture of innovation, Ghana can retain more of the value generated within its digital ecosystem while creating sustainable career paths for the next generation. To ensure the long-term sustainability of Ghana's digital ambitions under the administration of President John Mahama, stakeholders have called for prioritized investments in reliable electricity and robust telecommunications infrastructure. The consensus at the conclusion of National ICT Week 2026 was that a stable power supply is the fundamental prerequisite for a thriving digital economy. Moving forward, the government and private sector are encouraged to collaborate on infrastructure protection and energy reliability to ensure that the digital divide does not widen due to rising costs, allowing Ghana to fully capitalize on emerging technological opportunities.

Cyber Security Authority Director General Divine Selase Agbeti Mandates Strict Compliance to Secure Ghana’s Critical Infrastructure
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Cyber Security Authority Director General Divine Selase Agbeti Mandates Strict Compliance to Secure Ghana’s Critical Infrastructure

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has announced a significant intensification of regulatory enforcement aimed at bolstering Ghana’s digital resilience and national security. Director General Divine Selase Agbeti emphasized that the national agenda to "reset" the country must be firmly anchored in accountability and strict adherence to cybersecurity standards. This move underscores the government's commitment, under the administration of President John Mahama, to treat the protection of critical infrastructure as a non-negotiable priority in an increasingly digitized global economy. Central to this enforcement drive is the Directive for the Protection of Critical Information Infrastructure (CII). Under these regulations, designated owners of critical systems are now legally mandated to report cybersecurity incidents to the CSA within a 24-hour window. Furthermore, any identified vulnerabilities within these systems must be disclosed to the authority within 72 hours. To ensure the quality and integrity of cybersecurity interventions, the CSA has also stipulated that only licensed Tier 1 Cybersecurity Service Providers are authorized to offer services to these entities. Non-compliance with these directives will no longer be tolerated and may lead to rigorous enforcement actions. Director General Agbeti underscored that safeguarding Ghana's critical infrastructure—which includes essential services such as banking, telecommunications, and energy—is vital for economic stability and public safety. By mandating these reporting and service standards, the CSA aims to create a proactive rather than reactive cybersecurity environment. As the nation continues its digital transformation, stakeholders across all sectors are urged to view these requirements not merely as regulatory hurdles, but as essential pillars for building a secure and trustworthy digital ecosystem for all Ghanaians.

NCA Director General Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko Urges Bridging of Digital Divide to Strengthen Democracy
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NCA Director General Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko Urges Bridging of Digital Divide to Strengthen Democracy

The Director General of the National Communications Authority (NCA), Rev. Ing. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, has underscored the critical necessity of closing Ghana’s digital divide to ensure robust democratic participation. Speaking at the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) 77th Anniversary Symposium, Rev. Fianko argued that equal access to information is no longer a luxury but a fundamental requirement for active civic engagement. He emphasized that as Ghana continues to evolve in the digital age, ensuring that all citizens can participate in the national discourse is essential for the health of the country's democracy. To address these connectivity gaps, the NCA is actively collaborating with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to expand infrastructure across the country. Rev. Fianko revealed that the authority is currently overseeing the development of over 500 new sites and various network upgrades intended to improve service quality and reach underserved communities. This infrastructure drive is a core component of the NCA’s strategy to harmonize technological growth with social equity, ensuring that geographic location does not become a barrier to accessing digital services and information. Beyond infrastructure, the Director General highlighted the evolving role of the media in a digital-first environment. He called upon journalists to uphold the highest standards of ethical journalism, noting that the proliferation of digital platforms increases the need for trusted, verified information. Rev. Fianko urged media practitioners to innovate responsibly, leveraging new technologies to enhance storytelling while remaining committed to the principles of accuracy and public interest that define the profession. As Ghana navigates the complexities of technological advancement, the NCA's focus remains on creating an inclusive digital ecosystem that supports both economic growth and social cohesion. By bridging the divide between urban and rural connectivity, the authority aims to empower every Ghanaian with the tools necessary for information sharing and political expression. The success of this initiative will depend on continued partnership between the government, the private sector, and the media to ensure that the digital revolution benefits the entire population.