Across the world, nations are recognising the importance of technology and innovation as drivers of growth and development. Ghana and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) exemplify this global trend through their partnership to establish a premier technology and innovation hub. This collaboration is designed to support Ghana’s journey toward digital transformation and to position the country as a regional leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies.
A Partnership for Progress
The partnership was formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by Ghana’s Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, and Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman of the UAE’s Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC). This agreement reflects a shared vision to foster innovation, attract international tech companies, and build a vibrant digital ecosystem in Ghana.
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Enhancing Ghana’s Technological Landscape
The initiative, called the “Ghana-UAE Innovations and Technology Hub,” aims to draw over 11,000 global technology firms, including industry leaders like Microsoft, Meta, Oracle, IBM, and Alphabet. These companies are looking to expand their presence in Africa, taking advantage of Ghana’s strategic location, youthful demographic, and expanding tech community.
Under the leadership of PCFC, these firms will serve as a regional base for AI development, business process outsourcing (BPO), knowledge process outsourcing (KPO), and data generation for machine learning applications focused on Africa. The first phase of the project will be fully funded by PCFC and will involve developing a 25-square-kilometre site in Ningo-Prampram, with the Ghanaian government providing the land.
Driving Technological Sovereignty and Economic Growth
Ghana’s reputation as an emerging tech hub has been steadily growing, supported by forward-thinking government policies, a thriving startup scene, and international interest. For example, in April 2019, Google opened Africa’s first AI research centre in Accra, highlighting Ghana’s rising prominence in high-tech innovation.
The new Innovation Hub, projected to be valued at over one billion dollars, aims to solidify Ghana’s position as West Africa’s leading AI hub. It is a collaborative effort involving Ghana, the UAE’s PCFC, and G42—a prominent global AI company. This partnership aligns with Ghana’s broader goals of leveraging technology for economic development and empowering the youth.
Leadership and Shared Vision
Both leaders voiced confidence in the project’s potential at the signing ceremony. Minister Samuel Nartey George emphasised that the hub echoes the vision of Ghana’s leadership to transform the country into a regional AI powerhouse. He highlighted initiatives like the “1 million Coders” program, aimed at equipping young Ghanaians with essential AI and tech skills and creating a fertile environment for employment and innovation.
Sultan Sulayem underscored the importance of ideas and innovation, noting that Western development has long been driven by technological progress. He expressed confidence that Ghana has the potential to follow this path, with the new hub catalysing the development of local AI expertise and creating jobs—primarily for Ghanaians.
A Catalyst for Future Opportunities
Construction of the first phase is set to begin in 2026 on a 25-acre site, with an estimated completion within two years. Minister George described this as one of the most significant technological investments in Ghana over the coming years, with the potential to spark job creation, technological skill development, and increased international investment.
Global Partnerships for Sustainable Growth
The project embodies a truly international effort, with involvement from DP World, a global logistics company operating in 70 countries, and G42, a leading AI firm. This collaboration underscores the power of cross-border partnerships in fostering sustainable growth and technological advancement.
Looking ahead, the Ghana-UAE Innovation Hub represents a vital step toward Africa’s technological advancement. By attracting top global companies, nurturing local talent, and fostering innovative solutions, Ghana is positioning itself as a key player in the AI and emerging technology landscape. This initiative is set to unlock new opportunities for economic development, job creation, and technological independence, guiding Ghana toward a brighter, digitally empowered future.
