By Sammy CRABBE
In our previous article, we discussed the urgency and potential of transforming Ghana’s economy into a digital powerhouse.
Now, it is time to take the next step—understanding the foundational elements required to make this vision a reality. Where do we start, and what practical steps should be taken to ensure Ghana is ready for the digital age?
I am proposing an innovative approach to kickstarting Ghana’s digital economy, known as the ‘One Square Mile’ concept, to be established in Accra central, possibly the ministries area from the Ridge Roundabout to the seafront.
This strategy, inspired by how Dubai and China initiated their economic transformations, involves relocating all government ministries to other parts of Accra to free up space for a zone where all essential elements needed to support the digitalization of the economy will exist and function seamlessly.
The zone will feature modern infrastructure, a business-friendly regulatory environment, and technology-driven services that make it attractive to investors and entrepreneurs alike. With a focus on smart city concepts, the zone will integrate digital solutions such as e-governance platforms, automated business registration processes, and seamless public service delivery systems, making it a hub of innovation and efficiency.
However, its implementation may face several challenges, including political resistance, funding constraints, and socio-economic disparities. Political resistance may arise from entrenched interests that benefit from the inefficiencies of the current system, while funding constraints could limit the speed and scale of implementation. Socio-economic disparities must be carefully managed to ensure equitable access to opportunities, preventing the digital divide from widening further.
Political buy-in from all stakeholders is essential, as resistance from entrenched interests or competing priorities could hinder progress. Funding will require a mix of government support, private sector investment, and international partnerships. Socio-economic disparities must also be addressed to ensure inclusivity and equitable access to the benefits of the digital economy. Special attention must be given to balancing affordability with quality to ensure the benefits of digitalization reach all segments of society.
The zone will be created by a legislative instrument passed by Parliament and will operate as an independent authority with the same status as a municipal assembly. Establishing a legal framework that provides clarity on governance, jurisdiction, and dispute resolution will be critical in gaining investor confidence and ensuring smooth operations. The authority must also have the power to attract talent and implement policies independently to foster innovation.
It will have its own departments that will process applications, registrations, and other services typically provided by the ministries, eliminating the need for residents and businesses within the zone to interact with external government agencies. However, establishing such an authority may face legal and bureaucratic hurdles. Legislative approval could be a lengthy process, requiring extensive stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment with national development goals.
Bureaucratic resistance from existing institutions could pose challenges, as agencies might perceive the new authority as a threat to their jurisdiction. Navigating the regulatory environment to ensure compliance with national and international investment laws will require careful planning and expert legal consultation.
A phased approach will be crucial to ensuring structured progress and minimizing risks. The first six months will focus on assembling a high-level implementation team, conducting feasibility studies, and securing initial funding. Infrastructure development, including the installation of a robust fibre-optic network, smart grids, and efficient transportation systems, will be prioritized in the following 12 to 18 months.
Subsequent phases will focus on attracting key industries such as fintech, e-commerce, and digital health services, with an emphasis on creating an ecosystem that promotes entrepreneurship and job creation. The initial phase, spanning the first six months, will focus on planning and legislative approvals. Subsequent phases will prioritize infrastructure development, business and residential growth, and expansion beyond the initial zone based on lessons learned.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we delve into the operational and governance structures of the One Square Mile concept and the lessons Ghana can draw from global case studies.
>>>the writer is a PhD researcher specializing in blockchains and decentralized finance at the University of Bradford. He holds an MBA in International Marketing and a post-graduate certificate is research from the International University of Monaco. Sammy was the first president of the Ghana Business Outsourcing Association and developed Africa’s first data entry operation and Ghana’s first medical transcription company. He can be reached via [email protected]
