Ghana's ambitious vision to lead Africa in digital trade development

At the launch of National ICT Week in Accra, Ghana’s government unveiled new policies, partnerships, and investments aimed at positioning the country as the continent’s digital gateway.

By Nhlanhla Muthe

Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Mohammed Adam Sukparu, made a rallying call for Ghana to lead Africa’s digital trade revolution at the opening of the 2025 National ICT Week in Accra.

Ghana has declared its ambition to become Africa’s digital trade hub, with government officials outlining bold policies, investments, and partnerships at the opening of the 2025 National ICT Week at the Accra International Conference Centre.

Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Mohammed Adam Sukparu (MP) said Ghana’s youth-driven innovation and strategic location place the country at the forefront of Africa’s digital future. “The future is digital, and Ghana is ready to lead,” he said.

Sukparu highlighted initiatives such as the One Million Coders Programme, the Ghana Tech Lab, and investments in STEM education as central to building a knowledge-driven economy.

Policy measures announced include the long-awaited Innovations and Start-up Bill, which will provide incentives for innovation-led enterprises, and amendments to empower NITA as an independent digital regulator. Sukparu also emphasised the importance of digital trust, announcing a national trust framework to be developed with the National Communications Authority, Cyber Security Authority, and the Data Protection Commission.

The deputy minister stressed that partnerships are also a cornerstone of Ghana’s digital growth strategy. He cited the Ghana-UAE Innovation Hub as a recent example of cross-border collaboration that strengthens Ghana’s role as a digital gateway for the continent.

Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, Policy Adviser to the Vice President, reinforced Ghana’s achievements in digital payments, noting that the country is the only African state with fully interoperable instant payment systems. “This unique achievement has boosted e-commerce, financial inclusion, and positioned Ghana as a leader in digital finance,” he said.

As ICT Week continues with exhibitions, panel discussions, and a startup pitch competition, industry leaders, regulators, and partners are being urged to align around Ghana’s vision. “Our success will be measured by what we accomplish together,” Sukparu said.

Reaffirming Ghana’s readiness to lead Africa’s digital transformation, The event, organised by the National Information Technology Agency, is running under the theme “Ghana as Africa’s Digital Trade Hub – Innovation, Policy and Partnerships for the Future.”