Ghana and the United States have explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in digital technology, cybersecurity, investment and innovation, with discussions focusing on data centre development, cloud computing infrastructure and technology partnerships.
The discussions took place when the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, received a delegation from the US Embassy in Ghana, led by Mr Faris Asad, who is taking over as the new US Ambassador to Ghana.
The visit was primarily to formally introduce Mr Asad to the Minister ahead of his assumption of the ambassadorial role, while reaffirming both countries’ commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
Key areas of discussion included potential partnerships with global technology companies such as Amazon, the development of data centres and the expansion of cloud computing infrastructure through Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Both sides also considered how such investments could support job creation, technology transfer and collaboration with Ghanaian educational and research institutions.
Mr George highlighted Ghana’s ambition to become a strategic destination for technology investment in Africa, citing its growing digital infrastructure, skilled human resource base and geographical location as key advantages.
He also emphasised the need to extend 5G connectivity beyond major urban centres, improve access to affordable entry-level smartphones and strengthen local expertise in cybersecurity and emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence.
The discussions further examined opportunities for cooperation in skills development, technology training and research to ensure that investments in Ghana’s digital sector create meaningful opportunities for Ghanaians.
The US delegation included the outgoing Chargé d’Affaires, Mr Rolf Olson; Economic Counsellor, Dr Andrew G. Winkelman; Commercial Counsellor, Ms Rachel Kreissl; and Regional Environment, Science, Health and Technology Chief, Mr Anthony Eterno.
The engagement forms part of efforts to sustain Ghana-US diplomatic relations and advance mutually beneficial partnerships aimed at supporting investment, innovation and growth in Ghana’s digital economy.
