Accra: The Government is developing a new Data Protection Bill to regulate Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems, automated decision-making, and cross-border data transfers as part of efforts to strengthen Ghana's digital governance framework and safeguard citizens' rights. Mr Samuel Nartey George, the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, announced this during the 2026 Data Protection Conference in Accra, themed 'Your Data, Your Identity - Building Trust in Ghana's Digital Future.'
According to Ghana News Agency, the proposed legislation aims to modernize Ghana's data protection regime to address emerging technological realities, including increasingly complex global data ecosystems and the growing deployment of AI across sectors. Mr George highlighted that the Bill's objective is to bolster enforcement mechanisms, clarify international data transfer rules, and enhance citizens' rights, ensuring Ghana's governance framework remains relevant and resilient.
Mr George acknowledged Ghana's progress in digital transformation through mobile money expansion, interoperable payment systems, digital public infrastructure, and open banking initiatives. However, he cautioned that rapid growth without robust governance could create vulnerabilities. He emphasized that trust is a form of 'economic infrastructure,' essential for sustaining participation, investment, and innovation in Ghana's digital economy.
The Minister also discussed the importance of protecting personal data to maintain confidence in the digital economy, as personal information increasingly influences access to credit, insurance, healthcare, and public services. He announced that the Government is advancing a Data Harmonization initiative to align standards across financial services, telecommunications, and the public sector.
Additionally, an Emerging Technologies Bill is being developed to provide structured oversight for AI systems, advanced analytics, digital assets, and new digital platforms. Mr George stressed that the aim is to guide innovation responsibly, not stifle it. He also mentioned Ghana's Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which is under development to build local capacity while embedding fairness, transparency, and accountability in system design and deployment.
Mr Andrew Asiamah Amoako, the Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, representing the Speaker, remarked on the significance of digital sovereignty as an essential dimension of national sovereignty in the 21st century. He explained that sovereignty now extends to control over data, digital systems, and national identity in the digital age. Mr Amoako called for clear, enforceable laws, resilient technical systems, and leadership that understands the long-term implications of technological change.
Dr Arnold Kavaarpuo, the Executive Director of the Data Protection Commission, underscored the human consequences of weak data governance. He shared a story about a young teacher who faced public humiliation after her personal information was circulated due to a loan default, highlighting the power and responsibility associated with data protection.
Dr Kavaarpuo stressed that data is central to economic participation, risk assessment, and access to services. He emphasized that a trusted digital economy would emerge through deliberate policy, strong institutions, and responsible engineering, requiring alignment among legislators, regulators, financial institutions, technology firms, and civil society.
The Conference was attended by members of the legislature, representatives of the Bank of Ghana, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice, the National Identification Authority, regulatory institution heads, members of the diplomatic corps, academia, civil society leaders, and industry stakeholders. Participants were urged to translate discussions into stronger governance frameworks and safeguards to ensure Ghana's digital future remains innovative, secure, and anchored in public trust.