ICT4D Keynote: Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ghana

Summary

The Honorable Minister of Communication and Digitalization opened the 12th ICT for Development conference in Ghana, emphasizing digital technology's critical role in societal development. The event highlighted Ghana's digital advancements, such as the national identification program and mobile money interoperability, and discussed the importance of digital skills for youth. The conference focused on leveraging ICT for solving wicked problems, data innovations, and fostering local digital leadership, aiming to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive growth.

Takeaways

• 🌟 The Honorable Minister of Communication and Digitalization emphasized the importance of the ICT for Development conference, highlighting Ghana's commitment to leveraging technology for growth.
• 🎉 Ghana hosted the conference for the second time, showcasing its progress in ICT since the initial hosting in 2013.
• 📱 The minister highlighted the rapid growth of digital technology in Ghana, from the early days of mobile phones to the current widespread use of smartphones and internet services.
• 🏦 Ghana has implemented various digital initiatives, including a national identification program, digital property addressing, and mobile money interoperability to enhance financial inclusion.
• 🏥 The government is focusing on using technology to improve healthcare, education, and agriculture, as well as to streamline government processes.
• 🌐 The minister called for a focus on ethical considerations and addressing inequalities in the use of ICTs to prevent the exacerbation of societal issues.
• 🔒 Cybersecurity was highlighted as a critical concern, with the need to protect digital innovations from misuse.
• 💡 The conference aimed to foster partnerships and expand networks to promote the use of ICT for development across sectors.
• 🌐 The minister appealed to organizations like CRS to help bridge the digital divide and promote equitable access to technology.
• 📈 The script underscored the transformative power of ICT in solving complex problems and the need for a collective effort to harness this potential for societal betterment.

Q & A

Who is the speaker addressing in the script?

The speaker is addressing a diverse audience including the Minister of Communication and Digitalization, Members of Parliament, diplomats, ministers, deputy ministers, representatives of various organizations, sponsors, partners, speakers, media partners, and distinguished guests.

What is the main theme of the 12th ICT for Development conference?

The main theme of the conference revolves around leveraging technology for development, showcasing Ghana's digital transformation journey, and discussing the potential of ICT to solve various societal problems.

What is the significance of CRS in the context of the conference?

CRS, or Catholic Relief Services, is a partner in hosting the event. They are recognized for their work in technology's potential to empower communities and bridge inequalities.

What is the 'ICT for Accelerated Development Policy' mentioned in the script?

The 'ICT for Accelerated Development Policy' is a policy formulated in 2003 by Ghana's former president, which identified 14 key pillars to embrace ICTs in all sectors of the economy.

What technological advancements has Ghana experienced since the implementation of the ICT policy?

Ghana has seen advancements such as the growth of mobile phone technology, increased internet penetration, the implementation of a national identification program, digital property addressing system, mobile money interoperability, and the Ghana.gov payments and services application platform.

How has the digital transformation impacted the provision of government services in Ghana?

Digital transformation has made government services more accessible, efficient, and transparent, with a reduction in turnaround times for services.

What is the 'Digital Ghana Agenda' and when was it implemented?

The 'Digital Ghana Agenda' is a vision to leverage technology to deliver public services, promote transparency, efficiency, and easy access to all citizens. It was initiated since 2017.

What is the importance of the drone delivery system mentioned in the script?

The drone delivery system, using zipline technology, is significant as it enables the delivery of essential medical supplies across Ghana, which was particularly crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic response.

What are the three themes of the conference?

The three themes of the conference are: digital to tackle wicked problems, data innovations for impact, and local leadership for a digital future.

How does the speaker view the role of technology in addressing societal challenges?

The speaker views technology as a transformative tool that can address various societal challenges, including unemployment, climate change, and healthcare issues, by providing solutions and improving access to services.

What is the speaker's call to action for CRS regarding healthcare?

The speaker calls on CRS to consider setting up a medical simulation and training center in collaboration with Ghana's medical authorities to utilize technology for remote learning and diagnostics in healthcare.