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Members of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) have been charged to ensure inclusive participation as they work to transform Ghana's digital agenda.
This is because Ghana's digital transformation cannot be achieved in isolation and it requires a shared responsibility, demanding collaboration from all stakeholders.
The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, gave the charge in a speech read on his behalf at the press launch and inauguration of the 2025 IGF MAG in Accra last week.
The Ghana IGF Multistakeholder Advisory Group is a collaborative body formed to guide and support the planning and implementation of the country’s internet usage policies.
It includes a diverse group of stakeholders from the government, the private sector, civil society, academia and technical communities, all of whom play a key role in fostering inclusive dialogue on Internet governance issues.
The minister’s speech, which was read by IT Specialist, Dr Mark Oliver Kevor, called for a professional approach in taking all the decisive actions that would be effective and efficient and lay solid grounds for the future.
"As we inaugurate the Ghana IGF Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Group and officially launch it, we need to look at all that comes out with policies governing the internet. Let us face forward, united in purpose, as we reset and build a digital Ghana that is inclusive, innovative and ready to embrace the future," he stressed.
The minister further highlighted the need for sustainable development through technology as the nation tackled emerging challenges such as cybersecurity. He urged the MAG to work towards creating opportunities for all Ghanaians.
"The theme for today’s event, Building an Inclusive Digital Future Together, is both a guiding principle and a call to action. In this context, we look to you for leadership, as your efforts will help us reset and redefine Ghana's digital agenda, focusing on policy cohesion, innovation and inclusion," he stated.
"With the inauguration of the MAG today, we are taking an important step towards a more inclusive, equitable and forward-thinking digital agenda for Ghana,” he added.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Tempane, Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, stated that globalisation has brought nations closer together, making it essential to have conversations about the most visible aspects of the world in ways that drive meaningful change.
She acknowledged that while the internet had been a blessing to humanity, it also came with its challenges, providing opportunities to discuss how to secure the sustainability of the digital space.
"The visibility and impact of globalisation in nearly every aspect of life can largely be attributed to the rise of the internet," she said.
She continued, "This forum offers an opportunity to propose ideas for ensuring the sustainability of digital policies, while also exploring innovative strategies to minimise inefficiency, promote digital inclusiveness, and build capacity to address the challenges posed by the internet."
Madam Akanvariba, who chairs the MAG, emphasised their vision for the country: to establish a strong, inclusive digital ecosystem in Ghana, where all citizens can actively participate and benefit from the internet.
"This initiative will focus on bridging the digital divide, promoting responsible online behaviour, and empowering Ghanaian stakeholders to shape the nation's digital future through open dialogue and policy engagement," she said.
