Ghana Takes the Lead in Ethical AI Adoption in Africa

Ghana has officially launched the Readiness Assessment Measurement (RAM) tool, marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards digital transformation and ethical AI adoption. This move is expected to drive Ghana’s economic growth, improve the quality of life, and create opportunities for all, particularly women, girls, and vulnerable groups.

The RAM tool launch is part of the National Stakeholder Workshop on Ethics of AI, held at the Alisa Hotel, and brings together experts and stakeholders to discuss Ghana’s AI landscape, raise awareness on the ethical implications of AI, and introduce international frameworks and best practices.

According to Communications Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, Ghana has a unique opportunity to develop an approach to AI that supports societal development, promotes social cohesion, empowers individuals and communities, and reflects Ghanaian ethics. The country has drafted a National AI and Ethical Use of AI Strategy, with support from GIZ and the UN Global Pulse.

Key Objectives of the National Stakeholder Workshop:

• Convene a Multisectoral Stakeholder Group: Discuss Ghana’s current AI landscape
• Raise Awareness: Highlight the ethical implications and societal impacts of AI technologies
• Introduce International Frameworks: Share guidelines and best practices for AI

The Future of AI in Ghana:

With the RAM tool launch, Ghana is poised to harness AI’s potential, address socio-economic challenges, and achieve the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The country’s commitment to ethical AI adoption sets an example for Africa, demonstrating the potential for AI to drive inclusive economic growth and benefit society significantly.

Ghana’s efforts are timely, as Africa’s push to regulate AI is gaining momentum. The African Union is preparing an ambitious AI policy that envisions an Africa-centric path for the development and regulation of AI. Seven African countries have already developed national AI policies and strategies, which are currently at different stages of implementation ¹.

Benefits of AI Adoption:

• Improved Economic Growth: AI could increase Africa’s economy by $1.5 trillion, half of the continent’s current GDP ²
• Enhanced Healthcare: AI-powered diagnostic solutions improve medical imaging analysis and disease detection
• Increased Food Security: AI-driven agricultural tools optimize fertilizer application and crop cultivation

The launch of the RAM tool calls for active participation from stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector companies, academic institutions, civil society organizations, and the public. By working together, Ghana can ensure AI technologies benefit all members of society and contribute to a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world.