Gov’t Launches AI Readiness Assessment Measurement tool
The government has launched the Readiness Assessment Measurement (RAM) for the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive digital transformation in the country.
The initiative, led by the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation (MoCD) in collaboration with the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the Data Protection Commission (DPC), aims to assess the country’s preparedness for the integration of AI into various sectors of the economy.
Speaking at the launch event in Accra, the Minister for Communications and Digitalization, Mrs Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, emphasised the government’s commitment to leveraging AI as a transformative tool for national development.
She stated the transformational impact AI is expected to have on every aspect of life within the next five years and the parallels between AI development and the steps Ghana previously took in cybersecurity.
“We need to engage with AI thoughtfully, much like we did when addressing cybersecurity. The same careful diagnostic approach will serve us well in AI,” she said.
The Minister highlighted the government’s efforts to expand nationwide connectivity, stating that the rollout of 4G and 5G networks would be essential for AI adoption in Ghana.
Mrs Owusu-Ekuful noted the importance of keeping humans at the centre of decision-making even as AI becomes more prevalent.
“AI is designed to assist us, not replace us. The final decision always rests with the human, not the machine,” the Minister added.
On his part, the Head of UNESCO’s Accra office, Mr Edmond Moukala lauded Ghana for being selected as one of two African nations for the AI readiness assessment.
He highlighted the potential of AI in solving local problems such as improving access to basic services like clean water, healthcare and education in remote areas.
“We need AI systems that understand our languages, values and traditions. AI is not only a tool for the future, but it must also reflect who we are as a people,” he said.
The Executive Director of the DPC, Mrs Patricia Adusei-Poku, outlined Ghana’s National AI Strategy, focusing on its mission to harness AI for national development.
“Strategy is built on several key pillars: building capacity, ethical AI use, and promoting research and innovation” she stated.
The vision, she explained, is to make Ghana a leader in AI on the continent, with AI solutions that cater to both economic growth and the country’s unique cultural and social needs.
