Africa urged to unite on digital governance agenda

African countries must forge a common digital governance agenda to bridge the digital divide and safeguard the continent’s future, Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has said.

She said decisions on digital technologies would have far-reaching implications for commerce, education and individual freedoms across Africa.

Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at the opening of the 15th Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF 2026) in Accra, Professor Opoku-Agyemang called for a united African approach to advancing digital inclusion, innovation and trust.

The forum, held under the theme, “Advancing Africa’s Digital Future Through Innovation, Inclusion and Trust,” brought together governments, technology experts, civil society organisations and young people to discuss internet governance and digital policy.

The Vice President said Ghana was implementing measures to narrow the digital divide, including the distribution of digital devices to universities and the development of a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.

“Closing the digital divide involves more than extending network coverage. It also requires attention to affordability, accessibility, and the skills people need to use digital technologies,” she stated.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said the safety, privacy and educational rights of children and young people must remain central to digital policy.

Mr Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, called for Africa to take ownership of its digital future.

He said Africa must determine how it governs its digital space and shapes technological development to serve its interests.

Quoting Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, the Minister stated: “We face neither east nor west, we face forward.”

Mr George said Africa must develop digital solutions that reflected its realities rather than rely on imported models.

He identified priorities including connectivity, affordable devices, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, data protection, child online safety and national language models for artificial intelligence.

“Unity does not mean conformity. Every country will chart its own path, but we can agree on common goals, common standards, and a common voice,” he said.

The Minister said Ghana was ready to serve as Chair of the African Union Specialised Technical Committee on Communications and ICT from 2026 to 2028.

The forum forms part of continental preparations for global discussions on internet governance and coincides with the 20-year review of the World Summit on the Information Society and the Global Digital Compact.