The government is strengthening the management, security and use of public-sector data as artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital technologies become increasingly integrated into government operations.

Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Mohammed Adam Sukparu, said the growing use of technology in public administration requires Information Technology (IT) and Information Management professionals to play a more strategic role in Ghana’s digital transformation.

Speaking on behalf of the Sector Minister, Samuel Nartey George, at the 7th General Meeting of the Information Technology and Information Management Association of Ghana’s Civil Service, he said effective information management was critical to ensuring government data was properly managed, protected, shared and used for decision-making.

He said the increasing use of AI and other data-driven technologies had made the quality, integrity, accessibility and security of public-sector information more important.

Sukparu said Ghana was making progress in its digital transformation through investments in digital public infrastructure, broadband connectivity, digital financial services, electronic government platforms, cybersecurity and innovation.

He said these efforts were supported by national policies and legislative frameworks covering the digital economy, data protection and electronic transactions.

According to him, government is also reviewing existing legislation and developing new legal frameworks to respond to emerging technologies.

He said government was advancing the implementation of Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy as part of efforts to prepare the country for the growing use of AI.

The deputy minister said digital transformation was ultimately about changing how government operates, improving collaboration among institutions and delivering public services that are more efficient, transparent, responsive and citizen-centred.

“Digital transformation succeeds because of people,” he said.

He urged IT and Information Management professionals to see themselves as “architects of Ghana’s digital future” rather than merely technology officers.

Sukparu said their work has implications for key sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture, justice, local governance and public financial management.

He also called on professionals to pursue continuous professional development, research and collaboration with universities, development partners and other professional bodies to remain relevant in a rapidly changing technological environment.

The deputy minister further urged greater collaboration among IT and Information Management professionals across ministries, departments and agencies to establish common standards, promote best practices and strengthen government-wide digital transformation.

He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service and the Association to strengthen digital governance across the Civil Service.

He said the ministry would continue to promote initiatives in areas including innovation, cybersecurity, interoperability, AI readiness, digital inclusion, digital skills development and resilient digital infrastructure.

The 7th General Meeting also focused on the Association’s governance, including the review of its constitution, election guidelines and election code of conduct.

Sukparu said strong institutions required effective governance, accountability, transparency and shared values, and encouraged members to build an organisation founded on fairness, inclusiveness, professionalism and ethical conduct.