Accra: Dr Nii Narku Quaynor, a Ghanaian Scientist, emphasized the advantages Africa's emerging internet communities have due to the open practices of the Internet, which allow for global participation. He highlighted that open standards, documentation, and participation have significantly contributed to building capacity and networks over the years.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Quaynor shared these insights at the AMC-TICON 2025 Joint Conference in Accra, co-hosted by the Chartered Institute of Marketing Ghana (CIMG) and the Institute of ICT Professionals Ghana (IIPGH). The event attracted over 500 delegates from across Africa and beyond, signifying a crucial step in the continent's digital transformation journey.
The conference focused on two themes: 'Thriving in Africa's Evolving Markets: Trust, Trends and Technology' and 'Empowering Africa's Tech Future: Innovation, Standards and Global Influence.' Dr Quaynor acknowledged the progress made with the Internet but also pointed out challenges such as fragile infrastructure and known technical capacity deficiencies.
Despite these challenges, he noted improvements in data centers, connectivity, exchange points, capacity, and user numbers. He highlighted the success in internet penetration, which has increased from 0 percent to 40 percent over 30 years, and emphasized the need for long-term strategies and consistent efforts rather than short-term solutions.
Richard Kafui Amanfu, Executive Director of IIPGH, remarked on Ghana's significant progress in digital transformation, highlighting the country's role as a strategic hub for innovation and digital development. He noted Ghana's thriving fintech ecosystem and national digitalization agenda as evidence of the continent's potential to lead in the global digital economy.
David Gowu, President of TICON Africa, expressed pride in Ghana's leadership in digital transformation, citing the development of the Ghana-UAE Tech and Innovation Hub in Dawa, a $1 billion investment expected to attract global tech giants. He also mentioned the development of a National AI Strategy and the success of homegrown companies like Npontu Technologies in addressing real-world issues with AI applications.
