Letter to President-elect: Advancing Ghana’s economy through technology, innovation

Dear John Dramani Mahama, We write to address a matter of significant importance to the future of Ghana: Which is the integration and advancement of technology as a cornerstone for economic transformation. 

The country’s strategic position and resource-rich environment provide a solid foundation to harness the power of technology for accelerated development.

Potential of tech in agric

Agriculture remains the backbone of Ghana’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment, accounting for approximately 19.7 per cent of the GDP in recent years and employing over 33 per cent of the population.

Cocoa production alone generates about $2 billion annually in export revenue, while the cultivation of staple crops such as maize and yam supports food security and local trade.

Technological advancements such as drone-assisted farming and mobile market platforms have the potential to further enhance these contributions by increasing yield, reducing losses and connecting farmers to broader markets.

However, the sector’s full potential remains untapped due to outdated practices and limited technological integration. Advancements in precision agriculture, drone technology for crop monitoring, and mobile platforms for market access can revolutionise the sector.

For example, countries like Kenya have seen remarkable progress through mobile applications like M-Pesa, which enable farmers to access financial services and markets efficiently.

By promoting similar innovations tailored to cocoa, cassava, and other key crops, Ghana can achieve increased productivity and economic stability.

Empowering through digitalisation

Education is a catalyst for economic growth, and the digital era demands tech-savvy graduates ready for the global market. Integrating ICT into our curriculum from primary to the tertiary level will equip students with essential skills.

For instance, introducing basic coding and programming at the primary level can build a strong foundation for logical thinking.

At the secondary level, students could engage in data analysis projects using tools such as Excel and Python to foster analytical skills.

Tertiary education can focus on specialised areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or software development. 

These progressive steps ensure that students at each educational stage acquire relevant ICT competencies for the modern workforce. Initiatives such as providing affordable laptops, free coding classes and internet accessibility in rural schools could bridge the digital divide.

For instance, Rwanda’s One Laptop per Child initiative has empowered its youth, demonstrating the transformative potential of such programmes. Ghana’s embrace of digital education can drive innovation and create a highly skilled workforce.

Digital transformation, health

Technology in health care can address some of the most pressing issues in Ghana’s health system.

Telemedicine services, electronic health records and AI-driven diagnostics can improve access and quality of health care in underserved areas.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, countries such as India leveraged telehealth to ensure continuity of care, even in remote regions.

Implementing similar systems in Ghana cannot only save lives but also reduce the burden on urban healthcare facilities.

Industrialisation, Tech-driven manufacturing

Ghana’s industrial sector can benefit immensely from technology-driven manufacturing processes.

Smart factories equipped with IoT, robotics, and automation can increase efficiency, reduce waste and boost production capacity. 

For instance, India’s adoption of Industry 4.0 practices has enabled significant cost savings and enhanced productivity in its manufacturing sector. Similarly, Germany’s  "Smart Factory" initiatives have demonstrated how advanced technologies such as IoT sensors and automated processes can improve workflow integration and real-time monitoring.

By implementing such practices, Ghana can achieve greater competitiveness and attract international investors in its industrial sector.

The government’s “One District, One Factory” initiative is a commendable effort, but integrating modern manufacturing technologies can enhance its impact.

By fostering partnerships with global tech firms, Ghana can transform its manufacturing sector into a globally competitive industry.

Startups, innovation hubs

Ghana is brimming with entrepreneurial talent, and our youth have demonstrated exceptional ingenuity. Establishing more innovation hubs and providing seed funding for tech startups can accelerate economic growth.

These hubs can serve as vibrant ecosystems offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to investors for budding entrepreneurs.

They might also provide co-working spaces equipped with high-speed internet, prototyping tools, and training workshops to help startups navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses effectively. 

Neighbouring Nigeria’s fintech boom is a testament to the potential of investing in young innovators. Ghana’s Silicon Accra project is a step in the right direction, but expanding such initiatives nationwide will position the country as a regional tech hub.

E-government

Technology can also play a pivotal role in improving governance. E-government platforms that streamline service delivery, reduce corruption, and increase transparency will foster public trust and efficiency.

For example, Estonia’s e-governance model has transformed the way citizens interact with government services, making it a global leader in digital governance.

Adopting such a framework can enhance Ghana’s governance and attract foreign investment by showcasing our commitment to modernisation.

Energy infrastructure

A robust and reliable energy infrastructure is critical for sustaining a tech-driven economy. Investments in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind can provide the power needed to support technological advancements.

For instance, Ghana’s Bui Power Authority is actively diversifying its operations by incorporating solar energy alongside hydropower.

Similarly, the Nzema Solar Plant is a shining example of how solar power projects can contribute significantly to the national grid.

Learning from countries such as Morocco, which has become a leader in solar energy with projects like the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex, Ghana can also explore large-scale renewable initiatives to strengthen its energy infrastructure.

Such advancements would not only facilitate industrial growth but also foster sustainability in line with global trends. Ghana’s Akosombo Dam has been instrumental in the past, but diversifying our energy portfolio is essential for meeting future demands.

Collaborating with international partners to fund green energy projects can ensure sustainable growth.

Policy recommendations

To achieve these objectives, sir, we propose the implementation of several key policy measures.

These include providing incentives such as tax breaks and subsidies to encourage businesses to adopt advanced technologies, fostering public-private partnerships to drive technological development, and establishing dedicated funds to support research and development in technology.

Additionally, nationwide digital literacy campaigns should be launched to enhance digital skills across the population, while efforts to expand broadband infrastructure to rural areas should be prioritised to promote inclusivity and bridge the digital divide.

The global economy is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by the relentless advancement of technology. As nations race to integrate digital innovations, Ghana must position itself at the forefront of this technological revolution.

Embracing technology across agriculture, education, health care, manufacturing, governance, and energy infrastructure will not only foster economic growth but will also create an ecosystem of innovation, sustainability and inclusivity.

The strategic adoption of cutting-edge technologies can increase productivity, enhance job creation and foster a new generation of skilled workers poised to compete on the global stage.

Through a concerted effort to modernise key sectors, Ghana will be better equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global marketplace.

Furthermore, prioritising digital transformation will build resilience against external shocks and provide Ghana with the tools to solve pressing local challenges, from improving healthcare access to enhancing food security and environmental sustainability.

With the right policy framework, government leadership, and partnerships with the private sector, Ghana can become a shining example of a technology-driven economy in Africa.

We do not doubt that Ghana cannot only unlock its full economic potential but also offer a model for other nations to emulate. 

We trust that under your guidance, we will successfully integrate technology into every facet of our society, ensuring a prosperous future for all Ghanaians.

The writers are with Metascholar Consult Limited, 
P.O. Box SY649, 
Sunyani.