Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that Africa takes full ownership of its artificial intelligence (AI) future, as the Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations delivered the keynote address on behalf of the sector Minister, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), at TechExpo Africa 2025 held at the Accra Digital Centre.
Hon. Mohammed Adams Sukparu stressed that the continent must not remain a passive consumer of AI technologies developed elsewhere.
Speaking on the theme “The Future of AI in Africa: Who Holds the Power to Decide?”, he emphasised that African nations must take deliberate steps to determine how AI is developed, deployed, and governed across the continent.
He highlighted Ghana’s progress under President John Dramani Mahama, noting ongoing efforts to expand broadband access, advance e-governance, and deepen digital inclusion nationwide.
He also referenced Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which provides a comprehensive framework for ethical AI development, data protection, privacy safeguards, and responsible innovation aligned with national priorities.
The Deputy Minister called for stronger support for local innovators, strengthened regulatory systems, and deeper collaboration among government, industry, academia, and development partners. He noted that Africa’s technological sovereignty depends on investing in homegrown AI solutions, promoting transparency in algorithms, and ensuring citizens are included in shaping the ethical boundaries of AI use.
Hon. Sukparu further acknowledged the vital role of the African diaspora in accelerating the continent’s technological advancement, describing TechExpo Africa as a model platform where global expertise meets local talent to build sustainable digital solutions.
He concluded with a call for African-led cooperation through bodies such as ECOWAS and the African Union, urging stakeholders to commit to building an AI future rooted in African values, equity, innovation, and shared prosperity.
