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.

Minister Samuel George and NCA Coordinate Emergency Repairs Following Triple Fibre Cuts in Northern Ghana
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Minister Samuel George and NCA Coordinate Emergency Repairs Following Triple Fibre Cuts in Northern Ghana

The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has reported a massive disruption in telecommunications services across the five northern regions and parts of the Oti Region. The outage, which began on September 26, was triggered by triple fibre cuts on critical transmission routes, severely impacting both voice and data connectivity for millions of residents. The National Communications Authority (NCA) confirmed that the damage has affected 2G, 3G, and 4G networks, leaving many communities without reliable means of communication. Technical assessments identify the specific points of failure along three key transmission routes: Kintampo-Buipe, Wakawaka-Bamboi, and Hohoe-Jasikan. According to the Minister, the scale of the disruption is significant, impacting a combined total of 694 sites operating on 2G and 3G technology, as well as 521 sites providing 4G LTE services. These routes serve as the backbone for connectivity in the northern belt of the country, and their simultaneous failure has created a complex challenge for network stability. In response to the crisis, a multi-agency restoration effort is currently underway. Technical teams from MTN Ghana, Telecel Ghana, and the National Information Technology Agency (NITA) have been deployed to the affected sites to identify the exact locations of the cuts and initiate repairs. The NCA is actively monitoring these restoration efforts to ensure that service is returned to the public as quickly as possible. Minister Sam George has offered an apology to residents for the disruptions, assuring the public that restoration work is being treated with the highest priority. While the cause of the cuts has not been officially confirmed, such incidents are frequently linked to road construction or accidental damage during excavation works. This widespread outage highlights the vulnerability of the nation's digital infrastructure and the necessity for robust protection of transmission lines. As technical teams work around the clock, the NCA and the Ministry have pledged to provide further updates until full service is restored to all affected subscribers across the Northern and Oti regions.

Cyber Security Authority Warns Jobseekers of Rising Recruitment Scams and Website Cloning
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Cyber Security Authority Warns Jobseekers of Rising Recruitment Scams and Website Cloning

Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued an urgent public alert warning jobseekers about an increase in sophisticated recruitment scams targeting unsuspecting Ghanaians. Fraudsters are reportedly cloning official government websites and leveraging popular communication platforms, including SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Telegram, to disseminate fraudulent job offers. This warning comes as a response to several reported cases where phishing tactics were used to harvest sensitive personal data from victims by impersonating legitimate national institutions. According to the CSA, these criminal networks have become increasingly bold, specifically targeting sectors of high public interest. One prominent scam involves a fabricated recruitment drive allegedly linked to foreign security operations within the Ghana-Burkina Faso border region. Additionally, scammers have been circulating false claims that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is conducting a recruitment exercise that requires applicants to pay processing fees. The Authority emphasized that state agencies do not typically demand payments for employment opportunities and cautioned that such requests are a major red flag for fraudulent activity. To protect themselves, the CSA has advised the public to remain vigilant and look for tell-tale signs of cybercrime, such as poor grammar, spelling errors in advertisements, and the use of unofficial email addresses or social media accounts. Jobseekers are strongly encouraged to bypass third-party links and verify any employment vacancy directly with the human resource departments of the relevant institutions. The Authority further urged the public to report any suspicious online behavior or suspected recruitment fraud to the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-GH) or other relevant law enforcement agencies to help mitigate the spread of these digital threats.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (seated 2nd from right), Minister of Foreign Affairs; Hiroshi Yoshimoto (standing left), the Ambassador of Japan to Ghana; Koichi Wakata (seated 2nd from left), Japanese astronaut and Chief Technology Officer for Asia Pacific, Axiom; Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo (seated left), Vice-Chancellor, University of Ghana; Kadidja Iddrisu (seated right), Chief Director, MoFA; and other officials after the visit
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Minister Ablakwa Announces Establishment of Ghana’s First Space Institution in Partnership with Japan

Ghana is poised to enter a new era of scientific exploration with the upcoming establishment of the nation’s first dedicated space institution. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the initiative, which will be developed in close collaboration with the Japanese government. This move marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s technological roadmap, aiming to position the country as a leader in aerospace technology within the sub-region. The project follows the signing of strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) designed to facilitate knowledge transfer and technical support between the two nations. The formal framework for the institution is currently being finalized, with a comprehensive policy set to be presented to the Cabinet for approval in the coming weeks. A key component of this development is the partnership with the University of Ghana, which will serve as a hub for academic research and training in space sciences. Minister Ablakwa made these disclosures during a high-profile dinner held in honor of renowned Japanese astronaut Koichi Wakata. The event served as a platform to highlight how international cooperation can accelerate domestic goals in specialized fields like satellite technology and orbital research. Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, Hiroshi Yoshimoto, expressed strong optimism regarding the partnership, praising Ghana’s existing space program efforts and its vision for the future. He emphasized that the collaboration comes at a pivotal moment, as Ghana and Japan prepare to celebrate significant diplomatic anniversaries next year. According to the Ambassador, the establishment of this institution will unlock vast potential for scientific advancements that could benefit various sectors, including telecommunications, agriculture, and climate monitoring, through improved data collection and satellite imaging capabilities. As Ghana prepares to institutionalize its space ambitions, the move is expected to inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers. By leveraging Japan’s extensive expertise in aerospace, the Ghanaian government aims to build a sustainable ecosystem for innovation that reduces reliance on foreign data services. The next steps involve the formal cabinet endorsement and the subsequent implementation of the joint MoUs, paving the way for a permanent facility that will oversee Ghana's trajectory into the global space community.

DVLA Expands Digital Services with New DVLAverify App and Web Portal for Vehicle Registration
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DVLA Expands Digital Services with New DVLAverify App and Web Portal for Vehicle Registration

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has reached a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey with the official launch of the "DVLAverify" application for iOS and a complementary web-based platform. This new digital suite is designed to streamline the vehicle registration process by allowing prospective vehicle owners to conduct biometric identity verification remotely. By integrating biometric technology into a mobile and web interface, the DVLA aims to eliminate the need for physical presence during early verification stages, thereby reducing congestion at service centers and enhancing the overall user experience for Ghanaian citizens and residents. For users within the Apple ecosystem, the DVLAverify app is now available for download directly from the Apple App Store. The application leverages the sophisticated hardware of iOS devices to facilitate secure biometric checks, ensuring that the identity of the applicant is verified against official records with high precision. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the DVLA has also introduced a robust web-based portal. This ensures that individuals who do not own compatible iPhones or prefer using desktop interfaces can still access these essential verification services, maintaining a high standard of accessibility across various demographic groups. This initiative is part of a broader strategic effort by the DVLA to modernize its operations and provide more efficient, transparent, and accessible public services. Beyond the technical implementation, the Authority has established dedicated support options to assist applicants who may encounter challenges while navigating the new platforms. By prioritizing digital-first solutions, the DVLA is not only improving service delivery but also strengthening the security of vehicle registration in Ghana, as biometric verification provides a more reliable method of confirming ownership and identity compared to traditional manual processes. As Ghana continues to embrace digital innovation in governance, the introduction of DVLAverify represents a proactive step toward a more tech-driven public sector. The success of this platform is expected to set a precedent for other government agencies looking to digitize sensitive identity-based services. Moving forward, the DVLA is likely to continue monitoring user feedback to refine the application’s features, ensuring that the transition from manual to digital verification remains seamless and continues to meet the evolving needs of the motoring public.

Minister Sam George Reports Massive Telecom Blackout in Northern Ghana Following Triple Fibre Cuts
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Minister Sam George Reports Massive Telecom Blackout in Northern Ghana Following Triple Fibre Cuts

The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has announced a significant disruption of telecommunications services across the five northern regions of Ghana and parts of the Oti Region. The outage, caused by a rare triple fibre cut, has severed both voice and data connections for millions of residents, affecting critical communication infrastructure. The National Communications Authority (NCA) confirmed the scale of the disruption on September 26, noting that the damage spans three separate and vital transmission routes. According to reports from the Ministry, the technical failures occurred on the Kintampo-Buipe, Wakawaka-Bamboi, and Hohoe-Jasikan routes. These cuts have had a devastating impact on the regional network grid, knocking out services at 694 sites operating on 2G and 3G technology, as well as 521 4G sites. This multi-layered failure means that both basic telephony and high-speed internet services are largely unavailable in the affected areas, significantly hindering business operations, emergency services, and personal communication for the inhabitants. In response to the crisis, technical teams from the leading mobile network operators, MTN Ghana and Telecel Ghana, alongside the National Information Technology Agency (NITA), have been deployed to the sites to identify the exact points of failure and begin emergency repairs. The NCA is actively monitoring these restoration efforts to ensure that the digital backbone of the nation is restored as quickly as possible. Minister Sam George has assured the public that restoration work is a top priority, with teams working around the clock to bridge the communication gap. Both the Ministry and the NCA have issued formal apologies to consumers and residents for the severe inconvenience caused by the service blackout. While the immediate cause of the fibre cuts remains under investigation, the incident highlights the inherent vulnerability of the nation's digital corridors. The government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening the resilience of telecommunications infrastructure to prevent such widespread outages from recurring in the future.

Energy Commission Launches Management Platform to Oversee National Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
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Energy Commission Launches Management Platform to Oversee National Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

The Energy Commission of Ghana has unveiled plans to monitor licensed electric vehicle (EV) charging stations through a new digital platform, representing a major step toward regulating the country's emerging green transport sector. Speaking at a graduation ceremony for 884 electricians, Executive Secretary Adwoa Serwaa Bondzie announced the development of the Country-Level EV Charging System Management Platform. This central system is designed to provide comprehensive oversight of the national charging infrastructure, allowing authorities to track energy consumption patterns and manage potential outages to protect the integrity of the national grid. The announcement coincided with a celebration of professional standards in the electrical sector, as 85% of candidates successfully passed their Electrical Wiring Certification exams. Energy Commission Board Chairman Professor John Gatsi used the occasion to underscore the vital role of certified professionals in achieving Ghana’s ambitious energy goals. He noted that maintaining high standards in electrification is essential as the country prepares for a significant technological shift. Looking toward the future, Professor Gatsi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Energy Transition Framework, which targets a 35% electric vehicle penetration rate by 2035. This strategy is part of a larger plan to phase out petrol and diesel vehicle imports by 2045, significantly reducing Ghana's reliance on fossil fuels. By implementing a robust management platform today, the Energy Commission is ensuring that the necessary regulatory and technical frameworks are in place to support a sustainable and reliable electric vehicle ecosystem for decades to come.

Ghanaian Tourism Sector Navigates Digital Transformation Through Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality
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Ghanaian Tourism Sector Navigates Digital Transformation Through Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality

The tourism industry is undergoing a profound structural shift as technology and artificial intelligence (AI) redefine how travelers plan, experience, and document their journeys. According to insights from the Ghana Tourism Authority, the traditional reliance on physical travel agents and printed guidebooks has largely been superseded by a digital-first approach. Today's tourists increasingly utilize mobile applications and sophisticated AI-driven platforms to manage their itineraries, reflecting a global trend toward instant, data-driven travel management that prioritizes convenience and speed. Central to this transformation is the integration of immersive technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), which allow potential visitors to explore destinations digitally before making financial commitments. These tools, alongside AI chatbots, provide personalized experiences and real-time information that were previously unavailable. By offering virtual tours and interactive digital overlays, tourism stakeholders are able to engage audiences more deeply, effectively bridging the gap between digital discovery and physical exploration. However, the rapid adoption of these digital tools brings significant challenges, particularly regarding data privacy and cybersecurity. As travelers share more personal information with AI systems and mobile apps to receive tailored recommendations, the industry faces the urgent task of securing this data against potential breaches. The Ghana Tourism Authority emphasizes that the future of the sector depends on the responsible integration of technology, ensuring that innovation does not come at the expense of consumer safety. Ultimately, the successful evolution of the tourism landscape will require a balanced approach where businesses and regulators work together to implement robust security frameworks. As the industry continues to adapt, the focus remains on leveraging AI to improve service delivery and operational efficiency while maintaining the human-centric nature of travel. The ongoing digital revolution is not merely an upgrade of tools but a complete reimagining of the relationship between the traveler and the destination in an increasingly connected world.

GCIF Alerts Public to Sophisticated AI-Enhanced Phishing Scams During Cybersecurity Awareness Month
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GCIF Alerts Public to Sophisticated AI-Enhanced Phishing Scams During Cybersecurity Awareness Month

The Ghana Cybersecurity Industry Forum (GCIF) has issued an urgent warning to the public regarding the rise of sophisticated phishing attacks powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI). According to C.K. Bruce, the Interim President of the GCIF, cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging AI tools to craft messages that are far more convincing than traditional scams. These AI-enhanced attacks move beyond the obvious grammatical errors and poor formatting of the past, utilizing improved language, professional tone, and polished presentation to trick even tech-savvy individuals into revealing sensitive information or compromising their digital security. Mr. Bruce emphasized that the integration of AI allows bad actors to mimic official communications from banks, government agencies, and service providers with alarming accuracy, making it difficult for the average user to distinguish between legitimate emails and fraudulent attempts. This warning comes as part of a broader effort by the GCIF to safeguard Ghana’s digital landscape and protect the integrity of the nation's burgeoning digital economy. Established under the Cybersecurity Act of 2020, the Forum is specifically tasked with enhancing collaboration among cybersecurity professionals and developing a robust talent pipeline to counter the rapidly evolving threats in the modern era. In response to these emerging dangers, the GCIF is launching several initiatives aimed at public education and professional development. Throughout the month of October, which serves as Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the organization is conducting community roadshows and specialized training sessions. These events are designed to foster safer digital practices and equip citizens with the practical tools needed to identify and report suspicious activities. By building a stronger community of experts and a more informed general public, the GCIF aims to create a more resilient cybersecurity infrastructure for the country, ensuring that Ghana remains a difficult target for international and local cybercriminals.

FBI Security Breach: ShinyHunters Claim Theft of Medical Data for 60,000 Special Agents
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FBI Security Breach: ShinyHunters Claim Theft of Medical Data for 60,000 Special Agents

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is currently investigating a significant data breach after the cyber-criminal collective known as ShinyHunters claimed responsibility for infiltrating the agency’s systems and stealing sensitive medical records. The breach reportedly affects approximately 60,000 current and former staff members, including special agents. This intrusion is particularly invasive, as it includes highly personal information such as the results of blood and urine tests, alongside specific medical concerns and health histories of law enforcement personnel. The scale of the leak poses an unprecedented threat to the privacy of those tasked with national security. Beyond clinical data, the stolen records include names and home addresses, presenting a severe security risk to the affected individuals. Cybersecurity experts warn that the combination of personal and medical information provides fertile ground for identity fraud, targeted physical attacks, or sophisticated blackmail schemes against federal agents. Interestingly, the hackers have reportedly not requested a traditional financial ransom. Instead, ShinyHunters is seeking a formal retraction of a previous advisory issued by the FBI, suggesting the hack may be a retaliatory measure intended to undermine the agency's authority or public standing. The long-term ramifications of this leak are uniquely damaging due to the nature of the data involved. Experts emphasize that while digital credentials like passwords can be changed, medical history is permanent and cannot be "reset" following a compromise. This makes the stolen information a lifetime liability for the agents involved, potentially complicating future undercover assignments or security clearances. As the FBI continues its investigation, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the evolving threats posed by sophisticated hacker groups and the critical need for more robust protection of the most private data of government personnel.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (seated 2nd from right), Minister of Foreign Affairs; Hiroshi Yoshimoto (standing left), the Ambassador of Japan to Ghana; Koichi Wakata (seated 2nd from left), Japanese astronaut and Chief Technology Officer for Asia Pacific, Axiom; Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo (seated left), Vice-Chancellor, University of Ghana; Kadidja Iddrisu (seated right), Chief Director, MoFA; and other officials after the visit
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Foreign Affairs Minister Ablakwa Announces Ghana’s First Space Institution in Partnership with Japan

The Government of Ghana is set to reach a new frontier in scientific development with the establishment of the nation’s first dedicated space institution. Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the initiative, confirming that a comprehensive policy for the institution will soon be presented to Cabinet for formal approval. This ambitious project is being developed with significant technical and strategic support from the Japanese government, marking a major milestone in Ghana's quest to join the global aerospace community under the administration of President John Mahama. The foundation for this scientific leap was solidified through the signing of strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Ghana and Japan. These agreements encompass broad collaborations in aerospace technology, including specific academic partnerships involving the University of Ghana. The announcement was made during a high-profile dinner held in honor of renowned Japanese astronaut Koichi Wakata, whose visit symbolizes the deepening technological ties between the two nations. Minister Ablakwa emphasized that these collaborations are not merely bilateral agreements but are essential pillars for Ghana's future human resource development in high-tech sectors. Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Yoshimoto has lauded the move, highlighting the vast potential of Ghana’s nascent space program to drive scientific and technological advancements across the West African sub-region. The timing of the project is particularly significant as Ghana and Japan prepare to celebrate major diplomatic anniversaries next year. By leveraging Japanese expertise and the University of Ghana’s academic resources, the new institution is expected to provide a platform for satellite research, Earth observation data analysis, and climate monitoring, ultimately positioning Ghana as a regional hub for space science in the coming years.

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DPC Boss Dr. Arnold Kavaarpuo Calls for Unified African Front to Regulate Big Tech and AI Power

Dr. Arnold Kavaarpuo, the Executive Director of Ghana’s Data Protection Commission (DPC), has issued a strong call for enhanced collaboration among African regulators to address the growing dominance of global technology platforms. Speaking at the Pan-African AI and Innovation Summit 2026, Dr. Kavaarpuo emphasized that the sheer scale and reach of "Big Tech" companies—which now influence sectors ranging from telecommunications to artificial intelligence access—make it impossible for any single nation to govern them effectively. He argued that a "connected" approach among African nations is essential to balance the power dynamics between individual states and multinational tech corporations. The DPC chief highlighted the significant strides the continent has already made in establishing legal frameworks, noting that 44 African Union (AU) member states have now enacted data protection laws. However, he warned that legal frameworks alone are insufficient without collective enforcement and shared strategic goals. To address the practicalities of this cooperation, Dr. Kavaarpuo presented a new draft policy designed to facilitate cross-border data transfers. This initiative aims to streamline how information moves across the continent while simultaneously ensuring that individual nations maintain their data sovereignty and protect the rights of their citizens from external exploitation. The summit also featured contributions from other tech leaders and policymakers who echoed the need for Africa to chart its own course in the digital age. Speakers stressed the importance of fostering local talent and developing home-grown AI innovations rather than remaining perpetually dependent on external technologies. The consensus at the event was that while AI holds immense potential for the continent, its implementation must be regulated thoughtfully to ensure that the economic benefits of the data revolution remain within African borders. This push for regulatory unity represents a pivotal step in Africa's effort to secure its digital future and assert its influence on the global stage.

CSIR Launches 2026 Innovation Campaign to Drive Ghanaian Research from Lab to Market
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CSIR Launches 2026 Innovation Campaign to Drive Ghanaian Research from Lab to Market

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has officially launched its 2026 week campaign in Accra, signaling a bold new era for Ghanaian innovation. Centered on the transition of scientific breakthroughs from laboratory environments to the commercial market, the campaign aims to bridge the gap between academic research and national industrial application. The initiative will be anchored by two major upcoming events: the CSIR National Scientific Conference and the CSIR Innovation Fair, both designed to showcase the practical utility of indigenous scientific efforts in solving local challenges. Speaking at the launch, the Chairman of the CSIR, Ing. Mark A. Taylor, underscored the council's commitment to sustainable development through two primary themes: "Harnessing Science, Technology and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Ghana" and "From Research to Market: The Role of CSIR in Driving Innovation for National Development." Taylor emphasized that for Ghana to achieve long-term economic stability, it must rely more heavily on localized solutions rather than imported technologies. He pointed to recent CSIR breakthroughs in diverse fields—including advanced agricultural techniques to boost food security, emerging digital technologies, and eco-friendly construction materials—as evidence of the council's capacity to drive industrial growth. The campaign also serves as a strategic call to action for the private sector and media organizations to partner with the CSIR in advocating for the adoption of Ghanaian-made innovations. By fostering a closer relationship with corporate partners, the CSIR hopes to accelerate the commercialization of its research outputs, ensuring that scientific discoveries translate into jobs and economic value. As the council moves toward its 2026 objectives, the success of this campaign will likely depend on its ability to engage stakeholders across the scientific and technological landscape, ultimately steering Ghana toward a more self-reliant and sustainable future.