RAM— A Unique & Ethical Use Of Artificial Intelligence, Has Been Launched In Ghana

The Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation Ghana (MoCD), through the Data Protection Commission Ghana (DPC) in collaboration with UNESCO, has launched the Readiness Assessment Measurement (RAM)- Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Accra.

The purpose of the event was to explore the role that artificial intelligence (AI) plays in shaping Ghana’s future across various sectors and how AI could be used ethically in Ghana.

Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (MP), Minister for Communications and Digitalization, talked about how AI is expected to change everything within the next five years.

She discussed the similarities between the advancement of AI and the cybersecurity initiatives Ghana had previously undertaken.

“We need to engage with AI thoughtfully, much like we did when addressing cybersecurity. The same careful diagnostic approach will serve us well in AI,”

The Minister emphasized the significance of investing in AI knowledge and skills to prepare the next generation for an AI-driven future.

“The same diagnostic approach will serve us well in AI.”

She also talked about the growing digital divide, especially in terms of access to broadband.

She stated,

“We risk leaving many behind as AI becomes more integral to everyday life if we don’t address the lack of digital infrastructure.”

Ursula Owusu Ekuful also talked about the government’s efforts to improve connectivity across the country. She said that the introduction of 4G and 5G networks would be crucial for the adoption of AI in Ghana soon.

AI is made to help us, not take our place. Minister stated, “The human always makes the final decision, not the machine.”

Mr. Edmond Moukala, the head of the UNESCO office in Accra, also talked about how lucky Ghana is to have been one of two African countries chosen for the AI readiness assessment.

“AI is designed to assist us, not replace us. The final decision always rests with the human, not the machine,” Minister stated.

Mr. Moukala talked about how AI could help solve local problems like making it easier for people in remote areas to get clean water, healthcare, and education.

He emphasized the importance of adapting AI systems to African contexts rather than relying solely on data from other continents.

Mr. James Wright, Program Specialist at UNESCO Headquarters, also touched on how important AI training and knowledge are for Ghanaian workers in the public and private sectors.

He mentioned that despite AI’s numerous advantages, the nation’s inadequate digital infrastructure might prevent its widespread use.

He admonished,

“Without reliable high-speed internet, our children and citizens will be left behind in the AI revolution”

Additionally, Mr. Wright emphasized the necessity of a specialized AI training program comparable to Europe’s ambitious goal of training a billion individuals in AI within the next five years.

Following her presentation, Mrs. Patricia Adusei-Poku, Executive Director of the Data Protection Commission (DPC), spoke about Ghana’s National AI Strategy and its goal of using AI for national development.

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She emphasized that the strategy is supported by a number of important pillars: promoting research and innovation, ethical AI use, and capacity building

She explained that the goal is to make Ghana the continent’s AI leader with AI solutions that meet the unique cultural and social needs of the country as well as its growing economy.

Mr. Carl Ampah of UNESCO, the Chief Director of the MoCD, Mr Alexander Yaw Arphul, Directors and staff of the MoCD, Representatives from the Data Protection Commission, GIFEC and the Ghana Domain Name Registry were all in attendance.