Accra: African countries have been urged to harmonise positions and strengthen cooperation ahead of the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) 2028. A unified continental approach, it was noted, would enable Africa to play a more influential role in shaping global digital policies and standards, rather than remaining passive adopters. Mr Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, made the call at the opening of a two-day first African Preparatory Meeting for WTSA 28 in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, the meeting was organised by the Africa Telecommunications Union (ATU) in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Ministry, under the theme: 'Strengthening Africa's Common Purpose Position for WTSA 28.' Mr George emphasized the need for a united African proposal that reflects the continent's needs while aligning with global standards. He highlighted the importance of Africans becoming "rule makers, not just rule takers," as digital technologies transform economies and societies at an unprecedented pace.
Mr George identified priority areas such as bridging the digital divide through rural broadband expansion, strengthening cybersecurity frameworks, promoting affordable connectivity, and ensuring the safe and inclusive development of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. He charged participants to align positions, strengthen regional cooperation, and build consensus to shape Africa's digital future together.
Mr John Omo, Secretary-General of ATU, described the gathering as a critical starting point for Africa's preparations towards WTSA 28. He expressed concern about persistent challenges, noting that access alone has not resolved affordability, quality, and trust issues. Mr Omo urged stakeholders to prioritise affordability, meaningful connectivity, emergency communications, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
Mr Seizo Onoe, Director of the Telecommunication Standardization Bureau of ITU, underscored the importance of developing impactful and widely adopted standards. He stressed that ITU standards and capacity building must create firm foundations for the desired digital future.
Reverend Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, Director-General of the National Communications Authority, highlighted Ghana's investments in type approval and conformance laboratories, positioning the country as a regional hub for equipment certification and interoperability assurance. The meeting brought together policymakers, regulators, and technical experts from across Africa to deliberate on strategies for a strong and coordinated African voice at WTSA 28.