Kojo Bonsu backs Mahama’s $270m AI plan, says Ghana can lead digital future
Ghana’s newly launched National Artificial Intelligence Strategy has drawn strong endorsement from Ambassador Kojo Bonsu, who has described the government’s $270 million investment package as a decisive step towards positioning the country at the forefront of the global digital economy.
In a statement following the announcement by President John Dramani Mahama on April 24, the ambassador commended what he characterised as bold and forward-looking leadership, noting that the scale of investment signals Ghana’s readiness to compete in emerging technologies.
The strategy includes a $250 million allocation for the establishment of a national artificial intelligence computing centre, alongside an additional $20 million to support short- to medium-term implementation, forming a central pillar of the country’s digital transformation agenda.
Ambassador Bonsu said the initiative reflects a clear understanding of the role artificial intelligence will play in shaping the future of global economies. “This is exactly the way to go. Artificial Intelligence isn't just a trend; it is the fundamental architecture of the future global economy,” he stated. “By committing these kinds of resources, President Mahama is ensuring that Ghana doesn't just participate in the digital age, but leads it.”
He added that the investment sends a strong signal to international investors and technology partners that Ghana is positioning itself as a credible hub for innovation and high-tech development.
The ambassador also pointed to growing alignment between national policy and youth-driven innovation, highlighting the potential impact of grassroots initiatives such as his Gen Z AI Club, launched earlier this month. According to him, such programmes could help build a pipeline of skilled talent to support the implementation of the national strategy.
He said the club is designed to equip young people with practical skills in coding, machine learning and ethical AI, bridging the gap between policy direction and real-world application. The initiative, he noted, could contribute to staffing and innovation within the proposed AI centre while strengthening digital literacy among Ghanaian youth.
Ambassador Bonsu further underscored the importance of international collaboration, particularly through Ghana’s engagement with global technology ecosystems. He indicated that efforts to deepen cooperation with partners in China would support knowledge transfer and expose Ghanaian talent to global best practices.
“We are building a future where a young person in Accra or Kumasi can compete with their peers in Shanghai or Silicon Valley,” he said. “With the President’s strategy and our youth-led clubs working in tandem, Ghana’s digital future has never looked brighter.”
The National AI Strategy is expected to serve as a blueprint for the development, regulation and deployment of artificial intelligence across key sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture and governance, as Ghana seeks to strengthen its position in the evolving digital economy.
