At the 12th ICT4D Conference held in Accra, the Honourable Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation of Ghana, emphasized the significant impact of digital technology on national development.
The Minister highlighted the progress made in Ghana’s digital landscape since the implementation of the national ICT policy in 2003, which was initiated by former President J.A. Kufuor.
Ghana has made remarkable progress in its digital transformation efforts, which have led to higher internet usage and increased efficiency in government services. As a result, these services have become more accessible and transparent to the public. The government has been implementing the Digital Ghana Agenda since 2017, aiming to leverage technology to expedite development and establish a strong foundation for sustainable economic growth.
The Minister showcased several milestones achieved, including the introduction of digital IDs for citizens, the digitization of government services, and the integration of mobile money platforms that have significantly increased financial inclusion across the country.
Minister Owusu-Ekuful also pointed out the critical role of the digital property address system and the establishment of interoperability between mobile financial services, which have streamlined transactions and boosted transparency in government transactions. These advancements have not only improved public service delivery but have also fostered a considerable increase in government revenue through digital channels.
Showcasing Ghana’s thought leadership in adapting innovative technologies, the Minister proudly shared that the country implemented the world’s largest drone delivery system using zipline technology. This system was pivotal during the Covid-19 response, enabling fast delivery of essential medical supplies across the country.
Addressing the future, the Minister stressed the importance of digital skills development for Ghana’s youth to ensure they are competitive in the global digital economy and can effectively address local challenges. She underscored the ongoing need to bridge the digital divide, ensuring equitable access to technology across all demographics in Ghana, including the unserved and underserved communities.
The Minister stated that the ICT4D Conference serves as a crucial platform for sharing innovations and fostering international collaboration to harness technology for sustainable and inclusive growth.
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