By Abubakari Saddiq ADAMS
Ghana’s digitalization agenda is a transformative initiative aimed at harnessing the power of technology to improve governance, drive economic growth, and enhance the daily lives of citizens.
Spearheaded by the government, this agenda has delivered notable successes but also encountered significant challenges and unintended consequences.
This detailed analysis explores the good, the bad, and the ugly sides of Ghana’s digital transformation journey.
The Good: Catalyzing Growth and Innovation
Ghana’s digitalization agenda has yielded significant benefits across multiple sectors, fundamentally changing how the nation operates.
Improved Governance and Public Service Delivery
- Ghana Card Implementation: The Ghana Card is a foundational element of the digitalization agenda. It has simplified identification processes and is now required for accessing public services, opening bank accounts, and filing taxes. This biometric ID system has reduced fraud and improved efficiency in government programs.
- Paperless Port System: Digitizing port operations has increased transparency and efficiency while reducing corruption and delays. The initiative according to a report by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the digitization of port operations through the Paperless Port System led to a 35% rise in port revenues between 2018 and 2022.
Financial Inclusion and a Cash-Lite Economy
- Ghana is a global leader in mobile money interoperability, allowing seamless transfers between mobile money wallets and bank accounts. This innovation has provided millions, especially those in rural areas, with access to formal financial services.
- According to the Bank of Ghana’s Payment Systems Oversight Report 2022, over 40 million mobile money accounts were registered, significantly boosting economic activity and reducing reliance on cash.
Economic and Sectoral Transformation
- Agriculture: Platforms like Esoko and Farmerline empower farmers with real-time market prices, weather forecasts, and advisory services, increasing productivity and incomes.
- Healthcare: E-health initiatives such as telemedicine platforms and electronic medical records are improving patient care, especially in underserved areas.
- Education: Programs like IIPGH’s Coding Caravan, and partnerships with global tech firms have introduced coding, robotics, and digital literacy to thousands of students, equipping them for the future of work.
Cybersecurity and Digital Safety Improvements
The establishment of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) in 2021 has strengthened Ghana’s cybersecurity posture. Ongoing awareness campaigns and enforcement of the Data Protection Act have enhanced online safety.
- Broader Connectivity through ICT Infrastructure
- The Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) has connected over 4,000 underserved communities to the internet, bridging the digital divide in some rural areas.
- Efforts to expand the national fiber optic network have laid the groundwork for improved broadband penetration.
The Bad: Persistent Challenges Hindering Progress
Despite the significant strides made, several challenges hinder the full realization of the digitalization agenda.
Limited Access and Affordability
- Internet services and digital devices remain prohibitively expensive for many Ghanaians, particularly in rural areas.
- The e-levy on digital transactions, introduced in 2022, has faced backlash for discouraging the use of mobile money services, especially among low-income earners.
Rural-Urban and Gender Gaps
- Rural areas often lack reliable internet connectivity and electricity, exacerbating the digital divide.
- Women remain underrepresented in ICT careers
Cybersecurity Gaps and Rising Threats
The rapid expansion of digital services has led to a rise in cyberattacks, fraud, and data breaches. While the CSA has made progress, many businesses and individuals lack the necessary tools and knowledge to protect themselves online.
Implementation Delays and Bureaucratic Hurdles
Projects like the digitization of land records and the creation of a unified public service database have been delayed, reducing their potential impact. Inefficient coordination between stakeholders slows progress in key areas such as healthcare digitization and rural connectivity.
Digital Literacy Deficit
Many citizens, especially in rural areas, lack the skills to fully utilize digital tools and services. Public education on cybersecurity, data protection, and the benefits of digital platforms remains inadequate.
The Ugly: Unintended Consequences and Risks
The digitalization agenda has also revealed some unintended and troubling outcomes that could undermine its potential benefits.
Privacy and Data Protection Concerns
The extensive collection of personal data through digital platforms has raised concerns about misuse and unauthorized access. Inadequate enforcement of data protection laws has led to fears of surveillance and privacy violations.
Corruption and Mismanagement
- Allegations of inflated budgets and mismanagement have marred some digital projects, eroding public confidence.
- Weak accountability mechanisms risk diverting funds meant for key initiatives.
Exclusion of Vulnerable Groups
- The rapid pace of digitalization risks excluding vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and those without digital literacy.
- Automation in sectors like banking and public service delivery has led to job losses, affecting low-skilled workers.
Dependency on External Partners
Heavy reliance on foreign companies for technology solutions and infrastructure raises concerns about data sovereignty and long-term sustainability.
The Way Forward: Building a Resilient Digital Ecosystem
To fully harness the potential of its digitalization agenda, Ghana must address these challenges with deliberate and inclusive strategies:
Expand Digital Access:
- Reduce internet and device costs through subsidies and public-private partnerships.
- Prioritize connectivity in rural areas by accelerating GIFEC projects and expanding the national broadband network.
Foster Inclusivity:
- Encourage gender equality in ICT through scholarships, mentorship, and targeted training programs for women.
- Tailor digital literacy programs for underserved populations, including persons with disabilities.
. Strengthen Cybersecurity:
- Enhance the CSA’s capacity to monitor and respond to cyber threats.
- Educate the public on online safety and enforce data protection regulations rigorously.
Improve Governance and Accountability:
- Establish transparent monitoring frameworks for digital projects to prevent corruption.
- Ensure timely implementation of initiatives like land digitization and integrated service databases.
Encourage Local Innovation:
- Support Ghanaian tech startups to develop homegrown solutions that reduce dependency on foreign technology providers.
Conclusion
Ghana’s digitalization agenda is a bold and transformative vision with the potential to position the country as a digital leader in Africa. While the achievements are laudable, the persistent challenges and risks must be addressed to create a digital economy that works for all.
By ensuring inclusivity, affordability, and security, Ghana can build a resilient digital ecosystem that fosters economic growth, enhances governance, and improves the quality of life for its citizens. The road ahead may be complex, but with a collaborative and strategic approach, Ghana can achieve a digital transformation that is both equitable and sustainable.
The author is a Business IT & IT Legal Consultant with a focus on IT governance and cybersecurity | Member, IIPGH.
+233246173369, [email protected]
