Ghana’s government has approved a $250 million investment to establish a dedicated artificial intelligence computing center, as the country accelerates efforts to position itself as a leading hub for responsible AI development in Africa.
Communications, Digital Technologies and Innovation Minister Samuel Nartey George announced the initiative Tuesday during a national stakeholder meeting focused on Ghana’s AI Readiness Assessment Methodology. The center will support research, development and deployment of AI solutions in key sectors including agriculture, healthcare, education and financial services.
The announcement forms part of a broader AI push by Ghanaian authorities. The government has developed a national AI strategy, with an official launch scheduled for April 24, and is preparing an AI readiness assessment in partnership with UNESCO, funded by the European Union. George said the assessment will evaluate preparedness across governance, infrastructure, data ecosystems, research, economic readiness and ethical safeguards, with findings feeding directly into policy decisions and implementation planning.
He identified four priority areas: strengthening data governance, investing in AI research and computing infrastructure, expanding AI education and digital skills, and integrating ethical safeguards into technology deployment.
On March 24, authorities launched the first cohort of a national AI training program for civil servants using a train-the-trainer model. The program covers core AI concepts including machine learning, neural networks, and the design and deployment of AI systems, with an emphasis on the distinction between predictive and generative AI and the importance of human oversight.
Despite the momentum, Ghana faces significant structural challenges. While mobile penetration exceeds 110% — roughly 38 million subscriptions — that figure may overstate connectivity because individuals often hold multiple SIM cards. Nearly 30% of the population still lived in unconnected rural areas as of 2022, according to official sources. The International Telecommunication Union puts internet penetration at 72.2% in 2024, while 4G usage remains below 60% despite national coverage exceeding 90%. The World Bank estimates smartphone penetration at 53% among people aged 15 and older.
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs has identified the digital divide as a major barrier to AI adoption in the public sector, particularly in low- and middle-income countries — a challenge Ghana will need to address as it scales its AI ambitions.
