By Buertey Francis BORYOR
The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has said the Osaka Expo 2025 offers a rare and transformative opportunity to present the country’s growing ICT sector to a global audience.
Speaking at the ministry’s launch of preparations for the Expo in Accra, the minister said the country’s participation will spotlight its digital transformation journey – including innovations in fintech, e-governance, digital health and smart technology solutions.
“The Osaka Expo 2025 presents a unique opportunity for Ghana’s ICT sector to shine on a global stage. Our participation will highlight innovative products and services by Ghanaian private sector organisations, from fintech and e-governance to digital health and smart solutions. These advancements are driving the country’s digital transformation, creating jobs and improving lives” the minister said.
The Expo, which runs from April 13 to October 13, 2025 in Kansai, Japan, is themed ‘Designing Future Societies for Our Lives’. The country’s presence will include an ICT exhibition, a business forum and targetted B2B engagements designed to attract investment and deepen bilateral cooperation with Japan.
The minister noted that the nation’s presence at the Expo will not be ceremonial but strategic, with robust engagement from both the ministry and private sector actors. A key highlight will be Ghana Day, scheduled for September 11, 2025, when the country will host a flagship event to celebrate its digital achievements and engage potential partners.
“Our participation at the Expo will be robust and impactful. We will host an exhibition of cutting-edge projects and services, showcasing Ghana’s ICT achievements to a global audience. An ICT business forum will bring together industry leaders to discuss trends, challenges and opportunities while B2B sessions will connect Ghanaian institutions with their Japanese counterparts, paving the way for strategic alliances,” he explained.
He added that preparations are already underway to explore a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Japanese institutions, covering areas such as digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, capacity building and technology transfer.
Sam George stressed the importance of leveraging Japan’s advanced technological experience to strengthen the country’s digital economy. According to him, ongoing efforts such as expansion of broadband connectivity and youth training in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and coding will benefit significantly from Japanese expertise and collaboration.
He also pointed to the country’s newly launched One Billion Brothers Programme, which is expected to complement future partnerships in ICT and innovation between the two nations.
In his remarks, the minister expressed gratitude for active involvement by the Japanese Embassy, noting the Deputy Ambassador of Japan’s presence at the Accra launch event as a symbol of high-level diplomatic interest.
He also recognised the participation of stakeholders including the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) and representatives from the private sector.
“The ministry is proud to collaborate with private sector ICT organisations in Ghana. By partnering with dynamic ICT firms in the country, we aim to open doors for meaningful partnerships, attract investments and build bridges with Japanese businesses,” he said.
He called on media and all citizens to rally behind the country’s preparations and participation in the Osaka Expo.
“To our partners, local and international, your support is invaluable. To media, I count on you to amplify this message. Together, we will showcase Ghana’s ICT potential, forge lasting partnerships and design a future society that benefits us all.”
The Osaka Expo is expected to draw over 28 million visitors, making it a prime opportunity for Ghana to promote its digital innovation capabilities and attract strategic international partnerships.
