By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
The U.S. Department of
Commerce has engaged Ghana’s National Communications Authority (NCA) on
artificial intelligence regulation, emerging technologies and opportunities to
deepen cooperation between the two institutions.
The engagement took place at
the NCA Tower in Accra and focused on developments in Ghana’s communications
sector, regulatory priorities and opportunities for enhanced collaboration.
The U.S. delegation included
Lauren Molina and Theodore Ruth from the Department of Commerce’s Industry and
Analysis team.
Welcoming the delegation,
NCA Deputy Director-General in charge of Technical Operations, Salifu Suleman,
highlighted Ghana’s strategic position and youthful population as important
strengths in the country’s digital development.
Suleman said Ghana’s young
population presents significant opportunities to harness emerging technologies
to support innovation and economic development.
Artificial intelligence was
a key focus of the discussions, with both sides examining the need for a
regulatory environment that supports technological innovation while providing
clear rules and effective regulatory oversight.
Suleman said the NCA is
pursuing a consultative approach to AI regulation as it seeks to remain
responsive to technological developments while maintaining an appropriate
balance between innovation and regulatory responsibility.
He also stressed the
importance of clear regulatory mandates and rules that provide certainty while
leaving sufficient space for innovation as emerging technologies continue to
evolve.
The two sides exchanged
experiences on the use of artificial intelligence within their respective
institutions. Suleman said AI is increasingly becoming an integral tool in the
NCA’s processes and activities as the Authority explores ways to improve efficiency
and strengthen its regulatory functions.
Discussions also addressed
Ghana’s broader artificial intelligence strategy, including the need to ensure
that AI development and adoption reflect Ghanaian culture and values and
contribute to their preservation.
