BoG Governor urges Africa to shape AI development, not just adopt it

Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor Dr Johnson Pandit Asiamah has called on African countries to take a leading role in shaping artificial intelligence (AI) development rather than merely adopting technologies developed elsewhere.

He said the continent must address gaps in regulation, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure and financing to ensure the safe and inclusive use of AI.

Dr Asiamah made the call in a social media post on Wednesday, October 14, following his address on behalf of fellow African central bank governors at the 2026 African Caucus Meeting with the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

“AI is the next big shift, and Africa must help shape it rather than simply adopt it,” he wrote.

The BoG Governor noted that Africa had made significant progress in digital payments and financial technology (fintech), but persistent challenges continued to limit the continent’s ability to benefit fully from digital innovation.

He said stronger partnerships are needed to build Africa’s capacity to regulate AI, strengthen its influence in shaping global digital rules and mobilise affordable financing for secure digital infrastructure.

Dr Asiamah stressed that these efforts should ensure AI contributes to economic resilience, job creation and inclusive growth across the continent.

“The goal is for AI to work for Africans, driving resilience, jobs and inclusive growth,” he added.