Ghana plans to digitise about 100 billion records from public institutions, including hospitals and universities, over the next four years using Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The initiative aims to reduce manual errors, improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability, ensure easy access to public data and services, and provide valuable insights for informed decision-making.
Mr. Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, disclosed this in a speech read on his behalf at the recent Ghana AI Summit in Accra.
The initiative is part of Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2023–2033), which seeks to harness AI for inclusive and sustainable socioeconomic development.
The strategy will focus on addressing challenges in healthcare, agriculture, finance, education, and governance while accelerating progress through a dedicated Responsible AI (RAI) Office.
“Over the next four years, we aim to digitise at least 100 billion physical records, ensuring structured, anonymised, and protected data that aligns with global data governance frameworks,” Mr. George said.
He added that the initiative aimed to unlock the country’s full AI potential, strengthening its position as a leader in AI adoption and digital transformation in Africa through a well-structured data ecosystem.
The Minister also mentioned that the government is developing a centralised data exchange hub to unify Ghana’s data sources to enable seamless access for applications, data sciences, and business users.
He pledged the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring AI reached every corner of Ghana, empowering communities, creating opportunities, and driving innovation across all regions.
Dr. Kwami Ahiabenu, Chair of the Ghana AI Summit Organising Committee and Director of Knowledge Innovations, said the private sector would collaborate with the government to establish the Ghana AI Council.
The Council will drive AI growth in the country, ensuring responsible, ethical, and transparent development and deployment of technologies to build trust and confidence.
Mr. Abed-nego Bandim, Chairperson of Parliament’s Information and Communications Committee, called for interventions to make AI tools affordable and accessible to all, especially in rural areas.
Mr. Bandim, who is also the MP for Bunkpurugu in the North East Region, urged stakeholders to collaborate to ensure AI becomes a practical force for Ghana’s economic development.
GNA
