Gov’t Is Determined to Bridge Digital Divide – Ursula Owusu

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Minister for Communications and Digitalization, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful

The Minister for Communications and Digitalization, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide in the country.

Delivering updates on initiatives within the sector on Sunday, February 18, 2024, Mrs. Ursula-Ekuful highlighted Government’s effort in advancing technology since it assumed office in 2017 and why it is still a priority on government’s to-do list.

“Government will not leave anybody behind in our quest for digital transformation,” she affirmed.

Highlighting the significance of digital inclusion, Hon. Owusu-Ekuful underscored the pivotal role of technology in fostering socioeconomic development and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens.

She expressed the Government’s dedication to ensuring that every individual, regardless of location or background, has access to the benefits of digitalization.

“Our vision is to create a digitally empowered nation where every Ghanaian can harness the opportunities afforded by technology,” the Minister stated.

Hon. Owusu-Ekuful outlined various initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Communications and Digitalization aimed at extending connectivity, promoting digital literacy, and facilitating access to government services.

Among the key initiatives mentioned as part of the technological advancement, is the Ghana Rural Telephony and Digital Inclusion Project, which is aimed at providing mobile telephony services to underserved communities, thus bridging the digital divide.

The Minister also highlighted the innovative Ghana.gov platform, designed to streamline access to Government services and payments, as well as the nationwide eGovernment network, aimed at modernizing governance and connectivity infrastructure.

Additionally, she mentioned that the implementation of the ECOWAS Free Roaming initiative positions Ghana as a trailblazer in regional integration efforts. The initiative allows Ghanaian subscribers to enjoy seamless mobile services in neighboring countries without incurring roaming charges, fostering greater connectivity and cooperation within the sub-region.

The Minister also discussed the Innovative Digital Services and Payments Platform, GHANA.GOV, which serves as a centralized hub for accessing government services online. She emphasized the platform’s user-friendly interface and its role in streamlining financial transactions, enhancing transparency, and bolstering fiscal integrity.

Further, Hon. Owusu-Ekuful outlined the revolutionary Nationwide E-Government Network, aimed at broadening broadband connectivity and promoting digital literacy across Ghana.

This initiative, she stated, is poised to transform governance, enhance service delivery, and empower citizens and businesses nationwide.

This, she reiterated Government’s commitment to fully role out these projects to drive socioeconomic development.

She expressed confidence in Ghana’s digital future and urged stakeholders to join hands in realizing the nation’s digital aspirations.

Source: MOI (PR Unit)