Ghana’s Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has called on African countries to take a leading role in shaping global digital policies, urging the continent to move from being passive technology consumers to active rulemakers.
Speaking at the opening of the First African Preparatory Meeting for the World Telecommunications Standardization Assembly 2028 in Accra, the Minister stressed that Africa’s digital future depends on its ability to influence international technical standards.
“Our aim is to increase Africa’s visibility and influence in international forums,” he said. “We must become rulemakers, not just rule takers.”
The high-level meeting, hosted by Ghana in collaboration with the African Telecommunications Union and the International Telecommunication Union, seeks to align African positions ahead of the 2028 global assembly.
Minister George described technical standards as the “invisible architecture” underpinning the modern digital economy, noting that they are essential for interoperability, cybersecurity, and equitable access.
He warned that without harmonized and inclusive standards, Africa risks being sidelined in the rapidly evolving global tech landscape.
Highlighting progress made at World Telecommunications Standardization Assembly 2024, the Minister revealed that Africa submitted 37 common proposals, 34 of which were adopted. These included key resolutions on artificial intelligence, the metaverse, and long-term digital strategy.
He added that Africa’s growing influence is also reflected in leadership representation, with 29 experts from 30 countries now holding positions within the ITU.
Outlining priorities for the continent, the Minister pointed to: Expanding rural broadband to bridge the digital divide, Strengthening cybersecurity frameworks, Promoting infrastructure sharing to reduce costs and advancing emerging technologies such as AI and the Internet of Things
He emphasized that these measures are critical to unlocking inclusive digital growth and ensuring no community is left behind
The Minister also praised the transformation of the ATU, noting its expansion from 37 to 52 member states, which has enhanced its financial stability and global influence.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Ghana officially launched its campaign for re-election to key international bodies, including the ITU Council, the ATU Council, and the Radio Regulations Board for the 2027–2030 term.
The elections are scheduled to take place at the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference in Doha, Qatar, in November 2026.
Minister George said Ghana’s candidacy is grounded in its track record of leadership, including its role in advancing regional connectivity through the West African Regional Communications Infrastructure Program.
In his closing remarks, the Minister urged African delegates to translate dialogue into concrete action to safeguard the continent’s digital sovereignty.
“Together, we will create an environment where both established players and new innovators can succeed,” he said.
The meeting is expected to shape Africa’s unified stance as it prepares to engage more assertively in global digital governance discussions.
Story By: Eugenia Ewoenam Osei
