The Ghanaian Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, recently unveiled the country's Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, aiming to leverage digital technologies for equitable access and economic growth.
This comprehensive policy encompasses key areas such as digital infrastructure, data-driven innovation, data protection, cybersecurity, and digital literacy. It is designed to tackle challenges related to universal access, digital government services, and emerging technologies, ensuring that every citizen can benefit from public and private digital services.
Owusu-Ekuful emphasized that the Fourth Industrial Revolution presents both opportunities and challenges, and the new strategy aims to create sustainable jobs while enhancing service delivery. The government is committed to ensuring equal access to broadband internet across Ghana and has introduced the Ghana.gov portal and CitizenApp to streamline access to public services via smartphones.
To navigate the rapid technological changes, the policy advocates for adaptive and collaborative regulation focused on outcomes that foster innovation while mitigating potential risks. Additionally, partnerships with the private sector are deemed crucial for extending connectivity to underserved communities over the next four years.
The initiative also includes a campaign to raise awareness about digital technologies, addressing issues such as mobile fraud and misinformation. The support from organizations like the Tony Blair Institute has been pivotal in shaping this transformative policy for Ghana's digital landscape.