Professor Samuel Kojo Kwofie, Director of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST) at the University of Ghana, has urged Ghana and Africa to convert untapped data into equitable artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. These solutions should address the continent's most pressing societal challenges. He made this call at the 2026 Day of Scientific Renaissance of Africa, stating that data is the new gold and Africa possesses a vast, unexploited reserve.
Professor Kwofie highlighted that Africa holds significant data that remains unused for creating solutions in health, agriculture, and climate change. He defined an equitable Africa as one with universal access to healthcare and education, food security, and economic opportunities for all. He stressed that deliberate investment in AI could achieve much more, despite existing innovations.
This push for AI integration aligns with a broader trend of increasing investment in the sector across Africa. Over the past five years, AI investment has grown from approximately GHS 1.2 billion to an estimated GHS 4.1 billion. This financial momentum, coupled with support from organizations like UNESCO and the African Union, creates a strong foundation for developing homegrown AI solutions.
Professor Kwofie specifically challenged universities, including the University of Ghana, to become AI-powered institutions within the next decade. He stated that universities must lead in developing AI-driven solutions for unique African challenges. He also emphasized their responsibility to produce AI-skilled graduates and translate research into tangible community solutions.
Ghana is actively participating in this AI revolution. Earlier this year, President John Dramani Mahama launched the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2035. This strategy, titled "GHANA 2035: THE AI-POWERED SOCIETY," aims to transform society through AI for inclusive social and economic development. The country's Data Protection Act 2012 (Act 843) provides a regulatory framework for responsible AI development.
Practical AI applications are already emerging across the continent. In Ghana, AI tools are revolutionizing agriculture by providing weather insights and market information to smallholder farmers via WhatsApp in local languages. Other African examples include AI-powered mobile ultrasound scans for rural communities and AI tools offering direct market access to farmers, bypassing middlemen. These innovations exemplify "frugal innovation," achieving significant impact with limited resources.
Professor Kwofie emphasized that equity in AI is not solely about advanced technology. It also involves ensuring innovations remain affordable and accessible. The University of Ghana's open-source ventilator design and a voice-based conversational agent for prenatal risk monitoring demonstrate this commitment to accessible healthcare solutions. The Institute of Applied Science and Technology, with its AI, Data Science, and Engineering platforms, aims to bridge science, technology, industry, and society. It trains youth in AI and translates research into essential products, including exploring AI for drug and vaccine development through its Pharmavax platform.
The next decade will be crucial in determining Africa's role as a producer or consumer of AI technologies. Professor Kwofie reiterated that the work cannot stop at university gates. Continued investment in AI and data science is essential to unlock the continent's potential and address its unique challenges effectively.