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.

Samuel Nartey George (2nd from left), Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, with Prof. Randolph Nsor-Ambala (3rd from right), Chief Executive Officer, DBG, and other dignitaries, launching the “BoaMi” Farmer AI Assistant. Picture: EDNA SALVO KOTEY
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Samuel Nartey George Advocates for Specialized Tech Funding to Drive Ghana's Digital Economy

Ghana’s Minister of Communication, Samuel Nartey George, has called for a transformative shift in how financial institutions approach the technology sector, arguing that traditional funding models are no longer sufficient to drive the nation’s digital ambitions. Speaking at a high-level ICT Roundtable hosted by the Development Bank Ghana (DBG), the Minister emphasized that the financial requirements of modern technology firms—particularly those involved in data centers, cybersecurity, and emerging startups—differ fundamentally from those in traditional sectors like agriculture and manufacturing. He noted that without specialized financial instruments, Ghanaian tech companies would continue to face significant barriers to scaling their operations. The Minister highlighted that the current lack of tailor-made financing options often leaves innovative tech ventures under-resourced compared to other industries. Unlike manufacturing, which relies heavily on tangible assets and physical infrastructure, ICT businesses often center on intellectual property and digital architecture, requiring a more flexible and forward-thinking approach from lenders. During the event, the dialogue focused on bridging this gap by encouraging banks and other financial institutions to design unique models that recognize the high-growth potential and specific risk profiles of the digital industry. In a significant move to demonstrate the practical application of technology in other sectors, the roundtable also served as the launch platform for BoaMi, an advanced AI assistant designed to boost agricultural productivity. This initiative underscores the government's broader strategy to integrate digital solutions across various facets of the economy to enhance efficiency and output. Closing the session, Minister Samuel Nartey George reiterated the government’s commitment to establishing robust regulatory frameworks that foster innovation while ensuring national security. By aligning better financing options with supportive policies, the administration aims to solidify Ghana’s position as a leading digital hub in the region, ensuring that the tech sector becomes a primary pillar of national development.

Cambridge University Study Reveals Boko Haram’s Use of Big Tech AI Chatbots for Bomb-Making and Attack Planning
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Cambridge University Study Reveals Boko Haram’s Use of Big Tech AI Chatbots for Bomb-Making and Attack Planning

Recent research from the University of Cambridge has uncovered a disturbing trend in regional security: Boko Haram fighters are increasingly utilizing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots from major tech giants to facilitate their operations. According to the study, militants from various factions of the insurgent group have turned to platforms developed by OpenAI, Google, Meta, and xAI (Grok) to refine their bomb-making techniques and strategize military maneuvers. This development highlights a critical vulnerability in the global digital infrastructure, where tools designed for productivity and information sharing are being repurposed by extremist organizations to enhance their lethality. The findings are based on extensive field research, including interviews with 27 former members of Boko Haram and its splinter factions. These testimonies reveal that the use of AI is not merely experimental but has become integrated into various stages of attack planning. Former fighters described using the chatbots to seek technical advice on explosives and to receive guidance on military tactics. The ability of these large language models (LLMs) to synthesize complex technical data into accessible instructions provides a low-barrier-to-entry resource for insurgents operating in the Lake Chad Basin and beyond, effectively providing them with a digital consultant for combat operations. This revelation poses a significant challenge for Big Tech companies, which have long touted the safety guardrails and ethical filters built into their AI systems. Despite efforts to block harmful queries related to weaponization, the Cambridge research suggests that persistent actors can still extract dangerous information through these platforms. As West Africa continues to grapple with the evolving threat of insurgency, the role of accessible technology in modern warfare is coming under intense scrutiny. Security experts argue that without more robust intervention and international cooperation between tech firms and security agencies, the proliferation of AI could significantly lower the technical hurdles for non-state actors to execute sophisticated and deadly attacks.

GAEC Unveils Locally Manufactured Electrolyzer Technology for Hydrogen Production
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GAEC Unveils Locally Manufactured Electrolyzer Technology for Hydrogen Production

The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has announced a significant breakthrough in the country's quest for technological self-reliance with the development of local technology to produce hydrogen from water. Dr. Andrew Nyamful, the Head of the Mechanical Workshop at GAEC, revealed that the commission has successfully designed and manufactured homegrown electrolyzers to facilitate this process. This initiative represents a strategic shift toward domestic engineering solutions, aiming to position Ghana as a proactive player in the emerging global green hydrogen market. The development of these electrolyzers is a direct response to the need for enhancing Ghana's energy independence. According to Dr. Nyamful, the project focuses on utilizing local expertise to create systems that can split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. By producing this equipment internally, GAEC is working to reduce the nation's heavy reliance on expensive imported technologies. This move not only saves foreign exchange but also ensures that the maintenance and scaling of such energy systems remain within the control of Ghanaian scientists and engineers. The successful implementation of this technology holds significant implications for Ghana's industrial and energy sectors. Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a versatile clean energy carrier that can be used for electricity generation, industrial heating, and as a fuel for transportation. By pioneering a local method for its production, GAEC is providing a template for how scientific research can be translated into practical, industrial-scale solutions that support the country’s broader environmental and economic goals. Looking forward, the commission's efforts are expected to catalyze further innovation within the national engineering community. As Ghana continues to explore sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil fuels, the ability to manufacture key components like electrolyzers locally will be essential. This achievement underscores the importance of investing in research and development at institutions like GAEC to drive the next wave of industrialization and technological advancement under the current administration's focus on national development.

Samuel Nartey George (2nd from left), Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, with Prof. Randolph Nsor-Ambala (3rd from right), Chief Executive Officer, DBG, and other dignitaries, launching the “BoaMi” Farmer AI Assistant. Picture: EDNA SALVO KOTEY
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Communication Minister Samuel Nartey George Urges Financial Institutions to Design Specialized Funding for Tech Sector

Ghana's Minister of Communication, Samuel Nartey George, has called for a fundamental shift in how the nation's financial institutions approach the technology sector, advocating for the design of unique funding models tailored to the specific needs of ICT firms. Speaking at a high-level ICT Roundtable hosted by the Development Bank Ghana (DBG), the Minister argued that the traditional financing models used for industries like agriculture and manufacturing are insufficient for the dynamic requirements of the digital economy. He emphasized that for Ghana to achieve its digital ambitions, the financial sector must move away from 'one-size-fits-all' lending strategies and embrace more flexible instruments that support innovation. During his address, the Minister highlighted that critical sub-sectors, including data centers, cybersecurity, and tech startups, require specialized financial instruments that recognize their unique risk profiles and long-term value propositions. He pointed out that traditional collateral-based lending often fails to support tech entrepreneurs whose primary assets are intellectual property and innovative software rather than physical goods. By creating more nuanced financing options, the Minister believes Ghana can better support the growth of local tech enterprises and accelerate its broader digital transformation journey. The event also featured the official launch of 'BoaMi', an artificial intelligence assistant developed to improve agricultural productivity. This launch serves as a practical example of how technology can be integrated into traditional sectors to drive efficiency and economic growth. The Minister noted that the development of such sophisticated tools underscores the necessity for a financial ecosystem that understands the complexities of software development and AI deployment, requiring different investment metrics than those used for conventional infrastructure. Concluding the session, the Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to fostering a supportive environment for the digital economy through robust regulatory frameworks and improved access to capital. He emphasized that the collaboration between the Ministry, the Development Bank Ghana, and private financial institutions is crucial for bridging the current funding gap. Moving forward, the government aims to ensure that financing is no longer a bottleneck for innovation, positioning Ghana as a competitive leader in the regional and global technology landscape.

University of Cambridge Study Reveals Boko Haram Exploiting AI Chatbots for Bomb-Making and Tactical Planning
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University of Cambridge Study Reveals Boko Haram Exploiting AI Chatbots for Bomb-Making and Tactical Planning

Research conducted by the University of Cambridge has uncovered a disturbing trend in the West African security landscape: the extremist group Boko Haram is actively utilizing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots developed by global tech giants to refine their insurgent operations. According to the study, fighters have successfully leveraged tools from companies such as OpenAI, Google, Meta, and xAI (Grok) to assist in the construction of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and the strategic planning of attacks. This development highlights a significant vulnerability in the safety protocols of mainstream AI technologies, which are being repurposed as digital tactical advisors for one of the world's most notorious militant organizations. The findings are based on extensive interviews with 27 former members of various Boko Haram factions, who provided firsthand accounts of how these digital tools were integrated into their activities. These defectors revealed that the AI chatbots were consulted for both technical and military advice during multiple stages of their operations. The ease of access to these platforms allowed insurgents to bridge gaps in their technical knowledge, potentially increasing the lethality and coordination of their assaults. By bypassing or navigating around the safety guardrails intended to prevent the generation of harmful content, the militants have turned sophisticated language models into a low-cost, high-impact resource for urban and rural warfare. This revelation poses a profound challenge for international technology firms and security agencies alike. While major tech companies have invested billions into safety and moderation systems, the Cambridge research suggests that determined extremist actors can still exploit these systems for violent ends. As AI technology continues to evolve rapidly, the discovery underscores the urgent need for more robust regulatory oversight and enhanced cross-sector collaboration to ensure that innovation does not inadvertently fuel global terrorism. For West African nations, particularly Nigeria and its neighbors, the digital evolution of Boko Haram adds a complex layer to the ongoing battle against insurgency, necessitating a modernized approach to counter-terrorism that includes monitoring the intersection of extremist intent and emerging technology.

Nazir Ali’s Eight-Year Solar Transition Highlights the Potential and Hurdles for Ghana’s Renewable Energy Future
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Nazir Ali’s Eight-Year Solar Transition Highlights the Potential and Hurdles for Ghana’s Renewable Energy Future

In the Ashanti Region town of Achiase, Nazir Ali’s home stands as a testament to the viability of solar energy in Ghana. Since 2018, Ali has maintained a self-sufficient household energy system that provides a reliable alternative to the intermittent supply often associated with the national grid managed by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). As President John Mahama’s administration continues to look toward diversifying the national energy mix, Ali’s experience offers critical insights into the benefits and challenges facing individual adoption of renewable technology. Ali’s transition to solar required a significant upfront investment of $7,000, a figure that remains a primary barrier for many Ghanaian households despite the long-term savings and independence it provides. Over nearly eight years, the system has proven its worth by shielding his home from local power fluctuations and drastically reducing recurring electricity costs. This case study underscores a growing trend in the Ashanti Region where residents are increasingly seeking decentralized energy solutions to ensure stability for both domestic and small-scale economic activities. Expert analysis from Prof. Samuel Gyamfi suggests that Ali’s success should be the rule rather than the exception. Gyamfi emphasizes that expanding solar power is essential for Ghana to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and improve overall electricity availability across the country. However, he points out that technical and regulatory hurdles remain, most notably the full implementation of a net metering system. Such a system would allow households to balance their energy consumption with generated solar power, making solar investments more financially attractive to the average citizen. Looking forward, the shift toward a decentralized energy landscape will require more than just individual willpower; it necessitates significant infrastructural upgrades. While the market for solar components in Ghana is gradually improving, the national grid must be modernized to accommodate power flowing from private homes. For Ghana to meet its renewable energy targets under the current government, the lessons from early adopters like Nazir Ali will be vital in shaping policies that lower entry barriers and integrate green technology into the national consciousness.

Nazir Ali's Eight-Year Solar Journey Highlights Potential and Hurdles for Ghana’s Renewable Energy Transition
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Nazir Ali's Eight-Year Solar Journey Highlights Potential and Hurdles for Ghana’s Renewable Energy Transition

As Ghana grapples with the complexities of a transitioning energy landscape, individual success stories like that of Nazir Ali in Achiase, Ashanti Region, are providing a blueprint for household energy independence. Since 2018, Ali has powered his home almost exclusively through a private solar installation, shielding his family from the inconsistencies often associated with the national grid managed by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). This long-term experiment serves as a critical case study for the nation as it explores ways to diversify its energy mix and reduce its reliance on traditional fossil fuels under the administration of President John Mahama. The financial commitment to achieving this level of autonomy was significant; Ali invested approximately $7,000 to set up his solar infrastructure nearly eight years ago. Despite the high upfront cost, the investment has yielded substantial returns through a consistent power supply and a dramatic reduction in monthly electricity bills. For many Ghanaian households, Ali’s experience demonstrates that while the initial capital remains a significant barrier, the long-term reliability and cost-effectiveness of solar technology offer a viable alternative to the centralized grid system, especially in regions prone to intermittent service. However, the path to widespread adoption is not without structural challenges. Prof. Samuel Gyamfi, an expert in the field, notes that while individual investments are rising, the national infrastructure requires significant upgrades to accommodate decentralized energy production. A major missing piece of the policy puzzle is the full implementation of a net metering system. Such a framework would allow homeowners to feed excess power back into the national grid in exchange for credits, effectively balancing their consumption and making solar investments more financially attractive to the average citizen. As Ghana moves forward, the shift toward renewable energy is increasingly seen not just as an environmental necessity but as a strategy for national energy security. To transition from isolated success stories to a national standard, the government and energy stakeholders must address high entry costs and finalize regulatory frameworks. Nazir Ali's eight-year journey illustrates that while the technology is proven, the future of the energy sector depends on creating an ecosystem where decentralized solar power can seamlessly complement the national grid to provide stable, affordable electricity for all.

SkySat Technologies GM Vibin Lesly Alexander Champions Partnership-Driven Tech Growth for Ghanaian Businesses
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SkySat Technologies GM Vibin Lesly Alexander Champions Partnership-Driven Tech Growth for Ghanaian Businesses

Vibin Lesly Alexander, the General Manager of SkySat Technologies Ghana Ltd., is redefining the relationship between technology providers and the Ghanaian business community by championing a "partnership-first" philosophy. With more than 13 years of experience across various sectors and a robust academic background, Alexander argues that the delivery of hardware is only the beginning of a successful business relationship. His leadership style prioritizes deep engagement with clients to understand their unique operational needs, ensuring that technology serves as a catalyst for growth rather than just an overhead expense. Under his direction, SkySat has moved beyond the traditional vendor-customer model to establish itself as a strategic ally for enterprises seeking comprehensive technology solutions. Central to this approach is the provision of integrated IT services and professional printing solutions, most notably through the Konica Minolta Experience Lounge. This initiative serves as a dedicated space where businesses can interact with cutting-edge technology and explore innovative workflows before implementation. By fostering a culture of innovation and hands-on exploration, Alexander aims to demystify complex systems for his clients. He believes that creating lasting value requires more than technical expertise; it requires a commitment to understanding the specific challenges faced by businesses in the Ghanaian market and tailoring solutions that address those pain points directly. As the technology landscape in West Africa becomes increasingly competitive, the role of a trusted advisor becomes paramount. Alexander’s vision is to help Ghanaian businesses adopt modern technology with confidence, mitigating the risks of digital transformation through continuous support and consultation. By focusing on long-term partnerships rather than transactional sales, SkySat Technologies seeks to build a resilient ecosystem where technology adoption is seamless and effective. This strategy not only strengthens individual businesses but also contributes to the broader digital maturity of the Ghanaian economy, positioning local firms to compete more effectively on a global scale.

Tanzanian Innovators Develop "Miwani Janja" AI-Powered Smart Glasses to Assist Visually Impaired Persons
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Tanzanian Innovators Develop "Miwani Janja" AI-Powered Smart Glasses to Assist Visually Impaired Persons

A team of four visionary innovators in Tanzania has embarked on a groundbreaking project to enhance the lives of the visually impaired through the application of artificial intelligence. The project, centered on the development of specialized smart glasses dubbed "Miwani Janja" (Smart Glasses), represents a significant step forward in the evolution of assistive technology within the East African region. By leveraging AI, the development team aims to bridge the gap between visual limitations and information access, offering a tool that translates the visual world into a comprehensive audible experience for its users. The core functionality of the Miwani Janja glasses lies in their ability to perceive and interpret the user's immediate environment in real-time. Using integrated AI technology, the device is designed to scan surroundings and provide detailed audio descriptions to the wearer. This includes identifying physical objects and obstacles, thereby allowing individuals with visual impairments to navigate both indoor and outdoor spaces with greater confidence and safety. The innovators have emphasized that the goal is to provide a seamless and intuitive interface that effectively transforms how users interact with the world around them, moving beyond traditional aids. With the project currently in its development and refinement phase, the team anticipates that Miwani Janja will be ready for a commercial market launch by March next year. This timeline suggests that the innovators are currently focused on rigorous testing to ensure the device meets the practical, daily needs of its target audience. Beyond the technical achievement, the initiative highlights a growing trend of homegrown African tech solutions tailored to solve local social challenges. By promoting independent access to information, these glasses could significantly reduce the reliance of visually impaired individuals on human guides. As the anticipated launch date approaches, the development of Miwani Janja serves as a testament to the potential of artificial intelligence to foster social inclusivity and empowerment. If successful, the project could serve as a vital model for other tech-driven social enterprises across the continent seeking to address disability rights and accessibility. For now, the focus remains on finalizing the prototype and ensuring that the final product remains a viable, life-changing innovation for the millions of people living with visual impairments who stand to benefit from such technology.

Foreign Minister Ablakwa Hosts Japanese Astronaut Dr. Koichi Wakata to Bolster Ghana’s Space Technology Ambitions
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Foreign Minister Ablakwa Hosts Japanese Astronaut Dr. Koichi Wakata to Bolster Ghana’s Space Technology Ambitions

Ghana is intensifying its strategic partnership with Japan in the realm of space science and technology, a move punctuated by the high-profile visit of renowned Japanese astronaut Dr. Koichi Wakata to Accra. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa hosted a dinner in honor of Dr. Wakata, who is on a five-day working visit from September 15 to 19, 2026. This engagement serves as a significant precursor to the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ghana and Japan, set to be celebrated in 2027, and signals a mutual commitment to advancing technical cooperation and innovation. The discussions between Ghanaian and Japanese officials centered on the practical application of satellite technology to address critical national priorities. Key areas of focus include agriculture, where satellite imagery can optimize crop yields, and communications, which stands to benefit from enhanced infrastructure. Furthermore, the collaboration aims to improve disaster management through better weather forecasting and environmental monitoring. By leveraging Japanese expertise in space science, Ghana hopes to integrate these advanced tools into its broader developmental framework to ensure more resilient and data-driven public services. Beyond infrastructure, the partnership places a heavy emphasis on education and the empowerment of the Ghanaian youth. The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana and other academic leaders have pledged to deepen research and innovation ties with Japanese counterparts. These efforts are designed to inspire a new generation of Ghanaian scientists to pursue careers in space technology and aerospace engineering. By fostering international academic exchanges, both nations aim to build a robust talent pipeline that will sustain Ghana’s technological advancements for decades to come. This diplomatic and scientific outreach underscores a growing recognition that international cooperation is essential for technological leapfrogging in West Africa. As both nations look toward their 2027 milestone, the visit of Dr. Wakata is expected to pave the way for formal agreements that will solidify Ghana’s position as a regional hub for space research. This cooperation not only strengthens bilateral ties but also provides the necessary technological foundation for long-term socio-economic growth and regional leadership in science.

Real Intelligence must be free to the world – Prof. Ato Duncan
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Prof. Samuel Ato Duncan Launches "Real Intelligence" Initiative in Ghana to Provide Free Global Knowledge

Prof. Samuel Ato Duncan, a prominent innovator and leader of the Global Peace Mission, has officially launched the "Real Intelligence" initiative in Ghana's Central Region. The initiative is founded on the principle that essential knowledge and advanced technological understanding should be accessible to the global community without cost. By championing the free exchange of high-level intelligence, Prof. Duncan aims to position Ghana at the forefront of a movement that prioritizes intellectual altruism over the commercialization of critical human insights. During the launch ceremony, Prof. Duncan emphasized the urgent necessity for accelerated technology development and rigorous scientific research. He issued a cautionary note regarding what he termed an "inevitable internal shutdown," suggesting that the proactive dissemination of Real Intelligence is a vital tool to mitigate such systemic risks. The initiative seeks to create a framework where research-driven solutions are developed and shared openly to address complex global challenges before they reach a point of crisis. The project has garnered significant support from traditional leadership, with Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII, the Paramount Chief of the Abeadze Traditional Area, endorsing the innovation as a major global asset. The Paramount Chief urged Ghanaians to take pride in and provide full support to the initiative, noting that such indigenous intellectual contributions have the potential to benefit the entire world. This endorsement underscores the bridge being built between traditional values and modern technological advancement within the country. Moving forward, the Real Intelligence initiative represents a call to action for the scientific and academic communities to rethink the accessibility of information. As the program transitions from its launch to active implementation, it focuses on fostering an environment where innovation is used for the common good. The success of this vision will likely depend on sustained public and private sector engagement to ensure that the knowledge generated can be effectively applied to improve societal well-being and global stability.

Samuel Nartey George (2nd from left), Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, with Prof. Randolph Nsor-Ambala (3rd from right), Chief Executive Officer, DBG, and other dignitaries, launching the “BoaMi” Farmer AI Assistant. Picture: EDNA SALVO KOTEY
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Minister Samuel Nartey George Urges Financial Institutions to Develop Unique Funding Models for Ghana’s Tech Sector

Samuel Nartey George, the Minister of Communication, has called for a radical shift in how financial institutions support the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector in Ghana. Speaking at an ICT Roundtable hosted by the Development Bank Ghana (DBG), the Minister argued that current financial models, which are largely designed for traditional sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, are inadequate for the fast-evolving needs of the digital economy. This call comes as the nation intensifies its efforts to become a regional hub for technological innovation and digital services. During the event, the Minister highlighted that specialized areas such as cybersecurity, data centers, and tech startups require tailored financial instruments rather than one-size-fits-all loan products. He emphasized that the risk profiles and capital structures of ICT businesses differ significantly from those of conventional industries. By failing to adapt, financial institutions risk stifling the growth of a sector that is increasingly becoming the backbone of the national economy. The roundtable served as a vital platform for dialogue between policy makers and financial leaders to bridge this widening funding gap. The event also marked the official launch of "BoaMi," an innovative AI assistant designed to boost productivity within the agricultural sector. While the Minister advocated for tech-specific funding, the introduction of BoaMi demonstrated the practical intersection of technology and traditional industries. This tool exemplifies the kind of homegrown innovation that requires sustained financial backing to scale effectively and provide real-world solutions for Ghanaian farmers and agribusinesses. In his concluding remarks, Minister George reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for the digital sector through robust regulatory frameworks. He stressed that improved financing options are essential for Ghana to capitalize on the global digital revolution. As the government continues to refine its digital policies, the expectation is that financial institutions will respond by designing creative and flexible funding mechanisms that empower local tech entrepreneurs and protect the nation’s burgeoning digital infrastructure.