Ghana Government: Establishes AI Focal Persons Network

• Ghana has appointed AI focal persons across all government ministries to prepare for technology adoption.
• Cabinet ministers have already received AI training, with plans for senior civil servants to follow.
• A UNESCO AI readiness assessment has been conducted to identify institutional preparedness and resource needs.
• These initiatives are part of Ghana's ten-year national AI strategy aimed at boosting productivity and public services.
• The Digital Economy Forum will discuss AI's impact on Ghana's economy on October 21, 2026.

The Minister articulated his belief that robust preparation of the public sector is paramount for the successful implementation of Ghana's AI strategy.

The Ghanaian government has established a network of artificial intelligence (AI) focal persons across all its ministries, a significant move aimed at preparing public institutions for the integration of advanced technology. This development was announced by Sam George, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, who highlighted the proactive steps being taken to ensure effective and responsible AI adoption. As part of these initial efforts, Cabinet ministers have already completed specialized AI training, with plans actively progressing to equip senior civil servants with the necessary skills to incorporate AI into their daily governmental operations.

Further underscoring its commitment, Ghana has collaborated with UNESCO to conduct a comprehensive AI readiness assessment. This evaluation meticulously mapped out various government ministries and agencies, providing a clear picture of their current state of preparedness for AI deployment. Minister George explained that the insights gleaned from this assessment are crucial for identifying specific institutions that require additional investment, technical assistance, and capacity-building initiatives before they can effectively introduce AI into their workflows. The findings will also inform discussions between his ministry and the Ministry of Finance regarding the allocation of resources needed to bridge identified gaps in institutional readiness.

These appointments and assessments are integral components of Ghana's broader national AI strategy, a comprehensive framework designed to leverage artificial intelligence for national development. The overarching goals of this strategy include enhancing economic productivity, bolstering the efficiency of public services, and broadening access to essential services for citizens. This strategic vision underscores a commitment to harnessing technological advancements for societal benefit.

The ongoing discourse surrounding Ghana's preparedness for AI, its potential impact on employment, and the opportunities it presents for economic expansion will be a central theme at the upcoming second episode of the Digital Economy Forum. Titled "AI and the Ghana Economy: Opportunity or Disruption?", the forum is set to explore these critical aspects. Scheduled to air live on JoyNews and Joy 99.7 FM on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 8 p.m., the event is being held in partnership with Hubtel. Distinguished speakers will include Minister Sam George, Dr. Theo Acheampong from the Finance Ministry, Adam Watkins of AI for Ghana, Augustine Adjei from Hubtel, and Bright Simons of IMANI Africa.

Beyond the strategic placement of Ghana government AI focal persons, a significant emphasis is being placed on extensive Ghana public sector AI training. Minister George confirmed that training programs are commencing for senior civil servants, specifically chief directors and directors across various public institutions. These initiatives are being undertaken in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and UNESCO, aiming to provide public officials with the foundational knowledge required to understand and apply artificial intelligence effectively within their respective organizational contexts.

The Minister articulated his belief that robust preparation of the public sector is paramount for the successful implementation of Ghana's AI strategy. He stressed that the efficacy of this strategy hinges not solely on technological investment but equally on the capability of government officials to utilize AI tools proficiently. The Ghana national AI strategy itself is structured as a ten-year development framework, complete with measurable objectives designed to guide the nation's systematic adoption of AI technologies, signaling a long-term commitment to Ghana AI policy development.

Lawyers and compliance officers in Ghana should closely monitor the evolving national AI strategy and the appointment of AI focal persons across ministries. This signals forthcoming regulatory frameworks, data governance policies, and ethical guidelines for AI use, which will impact businesses operating in or with the Ghanaian public sector, necessitating proactive compliance and legal advisory.

Source: Original reporting via Emmanuel Dzivenu