Ghana’s Digital Economy takes centre stage as Sam George meets US Ambassador-Designate

Ghana’s digital economy, technology investment and cybersecurity cooperation have taken centre stage in discussions between the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), and a delegation from the United States Embassy in Ghana.

The delegation, led by Mr. Faris Asad, who is taking over as the new US Ambassador to Ghana, paid a courtesy call on the Minister to formally introduce him ahead of his assumption of the ambassadorial role.

The engagement also provided an opportunity for Ghana and the United States to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in digital technology, cybersecurity, investment and innovation.

Discussions focused on opportunities to deepen cooperation in developing Ghana’s digital economy and attracting strategic investments from global technology companies.

Key areas explored included data centre development, potential partnerships with major technology companies such as Amazon, and the expansion of cloud computing infrastructure through Amazon Web Services (AWS).

The discussions also highlighted the potential for such investments to create employment opportunities, facilitate technology transfer and strengthen collaboration with Ghanaian educational and research institutions.

Hon. Samuel Nartey George highlighted Ghana’s ambition to position itself as a strategic destination for technology investment in Africa, pointing to the country’s growing digital infrastructure, skilled human resource base and strategic geographical location.

He further stressed the need to expand 5G connectivity beyond major urban centres, improve access to affordable entry-level smartphones and build local capacity in cybersecurity and emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence.

The Minister also underscored the importance of skills development, technology training and research partnerships to ensure that investments in the digital sector deliver tangible benefits to Ghanaians.

Both sides expressed interest in exploring practical areas of collaboration that would support innovation, strengthen digital infrastructure and create opportunities for Ghanaian businesses and young people.

The US delegation included the outgoing Chargé d’Affaires, Mr. Rolf Olson; Economic Counsellor, Dr. Andrew G. Winkelman; Commercial Counsellor, Ms. Rachel Kreissl; and Regional Environment, Science, Health and Technology Chief, Mr. Anthony Eterno.

The meeting underscores the shared commitment of Ghana and the United States to advancing mutually beneficial partnerships in technology, investment and innovation, while supporting the growth and competitiveness of Ghana’s digital economy.