Government has officially launched a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy for the period 2025 to 2035, signalling its commitment to actively shape and deploy AI for national development rather than rely on externally built technologies.

President John Dramani Mahama unveiled the strategy on Friday, describing it as a major milestone in Ghana’s pursuit of a digitally empowered, innovation-driven and globally competitive economy.

“This is a statement of intent that Ghana will not be just a passive consumer of technologies shaping the future, but that we are going to be an active participant in designing, governing and deploying them for our national transformation,” he stated.

The president noted that global perceptions of AI have evolved from fear and uncertainty to a growing recognition of its potential for good, particularly when guided by deliberate policy and responsible leadership.

He highlighted the impact of AI across key sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, education, security and public service delivery, emphasising that the technology is already a strategic development tool rather than a future concept.

“From disease surveillance to financial management, from logistics to the administration of justice, AI is no longer speculative. It is already part of our present,” he said.

The strategy is anchored on key pillars such as ethical and responsible AI development, education and workforce readiness, AI-driven industrial innovation, data governance, research and ecosystem development, and improved public sector performance.

It will be implemented over a 10-year period, with clearly defined targets and performance indicators.

President Mahama stressed that the initiative is already moving beyond policy into practice, citing the adoption of AI systems by the Ghana Revenue Authority to improve efficiency, reduce errors and enhance domestic revenue mobilisation.

As part of the rollout, government will establish a Responsible Artificial Intelligence Office to coordinate stakeholders and oversee implementation through to 2035.

The strategy was developed through collaboration between the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation and key partners, including the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, the UK High Commission, GIZ, the United Nations system and other industry stakeholders.

President Mahama called for collective action to ensure the success of the initiative.

“Let us build an AI future that is not imported, but shaped by our own values. Let us deploy innovation not for its own sake, but in the service of our people,” he added.