Help build an inclusive digital Ghana - Communications Minister urges MAG officials

The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, has called on members of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) to ensure inclusive participation as they work to reset Ghana's digital agenda.

Mr Nartey George emphasized that Ghana's digital transformation cannot be achieved in isolation and that it requires a shared responsibility, demanding collaboration from all stakeholders.

He made these remarks in a speech read on his behalf by IT Specialist, Dr Mark Oliver Kevor at the press launch and inauguration of the of the 2025 IGF MAG in Accra on Wednesday, March 5.

The Ghana IGF Multistakeholder Advisory Group is a collaborative body formed to guide and support the planning and implementation of the country’s internet usage policies.

It includes a diverse group of stakeholders from government, the private sector, civil society, academia, and technical communities, all of whom play a key role in fostering inclusive dialogue on internet governance issues.

Resetting agenda

"We find ourselves at a defining moment in Ghana's digital transformation journey, where it is stricter to not just move forward but also to pause, reflect and also reset. Today, as we launch this important platform and initiative, we are also resetting Ghana's digital agenda," he said.

"As we inaugurate the Ghana IGF Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Group and officially launch it, we need to look at all that come out with policies governing the internet. Let us face forward, united in purpose, as we reset and build a digital Ghana that is inclusive, innovative and ready to embrace the future," he stressed.

Sustainable development

The Minister further highlighted the need for sustainable development through technology as the nation tackles emerging challenges such as cybersecurity. He urged the MAG to work toward creating opportunities for all Ghanaians.

"The theme for today’s event, Building an Inclusive Digital Future Together, is both a guiding principle and a call to action. In this context, we look to you for leadership, as your efforts will help us reset and redefine Ghana's digital agenda, focusing on policy cohesion, innovation, and inclusion," he stated.

"With the inauguration of the MAG today, we are taking an important step toward a more inclusive, equitable, and forward-thinking digital agenda for Ghana."

"As we reset our digital agenda, we must remember that this journey will require patience, dialogue, compromise and most importantly, bold action. To the advisory group, I urge you to be bold in your recommendations and inclusive in your outreach," he added. 

Globalisation

The Member of Parliament for Tempane, Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, stated that globalization has brought nations closer together, making it essential to have conversations about the most visible aspects of the world in ways that drive meaningful change.

She acknowledged that while the internet has been a blessing to humanity, it also comes with its challenges, providing opportunities to discuss how to secure the sustainability of the digital space.

"The visibility and impact of globalization in nearly every aspect of life can largely be attributed to the rise of the internet."

She continued, "This forum offers an opportunity to propose ideas for ensuring the sustainability of digital policies, while also exploring innovative strategies to minimize inefficiency, promote digital inclusiveness, and build capacity to address the challenges posed by the internet."

Madam Akanvariba, who chairs the MAG, emphasized their vision for the country: to establish a strong, inclusive digital ecosystem in Ghana, where all citizens can actively participate and benefit from the internet.

"This initiative will focus on bridging the digital divide, promoting responsible online behavior, and empowering Ghanaian stakeholders to shape the nation's digital future through open dialogue and policy engagement," she assured.