Ghana calls for Global Action to Bridge Emerging Digital Divide

Ghana has called for increased global investment in digital infrastructure, technology transfer and equitable access to emerging technologies to prevent developing countries from being left behind in the rapidly evolving digital economy.

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, made the call at the Doha Ministerial Roundtable in Qatar.

He warned that disparities in access to computing power, quality data and advanced technology development capabilities were creating a new form of digital divide.

He said the global digital revolution could only deliver meaningful benefits if countries, particularly developing economies, had equal opportunities to access the infrastructure, resources and expertise needed to innovate and compete.

Using the example of a young Ghanaian innovator in Accra with a promising artificial intelligence (AI) idea but limited access to computing resources and financing, the Minister highlighted the structural barriers confronting talented innovators in developing countries.

Mr George said addressing the widening digital gap required a shift from traditional development assistance towards a more practical international cooperation focused on infrastructure investment, technology transfer, skills development and fair access to emerging technologies.

He stressed that stronger partnerships among governments, development institutions and the private sector were essential to addressing the financing and capacity constraints that continued to limit innovation in developing economies.

The Minister said developing countries must be supported not only to adopt digital technologies but also to develop and contribute to the global technology ecosystem.

He further urged participating countries, as preparations advanced towards the launch of the Doha Ministerial Declaration, to ensure that the document is translated into concrete commitments and measurable outcomes.

“Let this one be different. Let it be the basis for practical partnerships that meet the real infrastructure, financing and capacity needs of developing countries,” he said.

Mr George reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to working with Member States and international partners to advance shared digital development priorities and promote a more inclusive global digital economy.

Judith Twumwaa, ISD