In a landmark move to bolster Africa’s digital landscape, Ghana and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a $1 billion agreement to construct the continent’s largest innovation and technology hub. This initiative aims to position Ghana as a central player in artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies across Africa.
Key Highlights:
- Project Overview: The “Ghana-UAE Innovations and Technology Hub” will span 25 square kilometers in Ningo-Prampram, Greater Accra. Fully funded by the UAE’s Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC), the hub is designed to attract over 11,000 global technology firms, including industry giants like Microsoft, Meta, Oracle, IBM, and Alphabet.
- Strategic Objectives: The hub will serve as a regional base for AI engineering, business process outsourcing (BPO), knowledge process outsourcing (KPO), and data generation tailored for Africa-focused machine learning applications.
- Government Collaboration: Ghana’s government will provide the land for the project, reflecting a strong public-private partnership model. The initiative aligns with President John Mahama’s vision to transform Ghana into a leading AI hub in West Africa, complementing programs like the “One Million Coders” initiative aimed at equipping the youth with digital skills.
- Timeline: Construction is slated to begin in 2026, with completion expected by the end of 2027.
Implications:
This partnership signifies a significant step towards enhancing Ghana’s digital infrastructure and capabilities. By attracting major global tech companies and fostering local talent, the hub is poised to become a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement in the region.
