Ghana’s Communications Minister Named Chair of AU Committee on Communication and ICT
The appointment gives Ghana a leadership role in continental discussions on communication and information and communication technology (ICT) policy.
Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has been confirmed as Chair of the African Union Specialised Technical Committee on Communication and ICT (AU STC-ICT) at its 6th Ordinary Session in Libreville, Gabon.
The appointment gives Ghana a leadership role in continental discussions on communication and information and communication technology (ICT) policy. George said the chairmanship would focus on strengthening cooperation among African Union member states to accelerate the continent’s digital transformation.
He called for African countries to move from developing digital policies to implementing them, noting that the continent already has frameworks covering digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) and data governance. He identified the gap between policy development and implementation as a key challenge to achieving Africa’s digital ambitions.
The minister highlighted connectivity, data governance, cybersecurity and AI as priority areas requiring coordinated continental action. He also stressed the importance of strengthening Africa’s collective influence in the global digital economy, particularly in international discussions on AI, data and digital trade.
George further underscored the need to equip Africa’s young population with the skills and opportunities to participate in the digital economy. He cited Ghana’s One Million Coders Programme as an example of an initiative aimed at helping young people develop digital skills and pursue innovation.
During his two-year chairmanship, the minister said he would prioritise consensus-building, stronger cooperation among member states and the implementation of continental digital initiatives.
He also called for African countries to work towards a more integrated digital market and a coordinated position in global technology discussions.
Ghana’s chairmanship comes as African countries seek to expand digital access, strengthen cybersecurity, advance responsible AI development and ensure that the continent’s digital resources and opportunities contribute to economic and social development.
