On October 12, 2026, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, led a delegation, including the Administrator of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), Mr. Sofo Tanko Rashid-Computer, on a field visit to selected digital infrastructure and One Million Coders Programme (OMCP) centres in the Ashanti Region. The visit formed part of efforts to assess digital infrastructure, monitor programme implementation and strengthen access to digital skills development and electronic communication services.

As part of the tour, the Minister visited the KNUST One Million Coders Centre and the Kwadaso Community Information Centre, where he interacted with learners and underscored the importance of equipping young people with relevant digital skills to take advantage of emerging employment and entrepreneurial opportunities in the technology sector.

Hon. Samuel Nartey George highlighted the opportunities presented by the growing digital economy, noting that young people must acquire the necessary skills to benefit from available jobs and remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

The delegation's engagements also highlighted the importance of functional training facilities, appropriate equipment and reliable internet connectivity in ensuring effective digital learning. The field visit further included a courtesy call on the Ashanti Regional Minister at the Regional Coordinating Council in Kumasi, an engagement with stakeholders at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), and visits to the Kwadwaso Regional Information Centre, the Asawase Community Information Centre in Asokore Mampong, and the Nkwantakese Community Information Centre in the Afigya Kwabre North District.

Beyond digital skills development, the Minister emphasised the importance of independently verifying contractors' implementation reports under the Rural Telephony Project. He indicated that a nationwide audit of the project was expected to commence within the coming weeks to establish its actual implementation status, identify outstanding works and address gaps in rural connectivity. GIFEC's participation, under the leadership of Dr. Sofo Tanko Rashid-Computer, reinforces the Fund's commitment to bridging the digital divide through improved access to electronic communications, community digital infrastructure and initiatives that support Ghana's digital transformation agenda. The visit underscores the Ministry's and GIFEC's commitment to strengthening project accountability, improving digital access facilities and expanding opportunities for young people and underserved communities to participate in Ghana's digital economy.

Key Discussion Points

• Digital Skills Development: The Minister assessed the implementation of the One Million Coders Programme (OMCP) and encouraged young people to acquire digital skills for future employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
• Assessment of Digital Infrastructure: – The delegation inspected Community Information Centres and training facilities to evaluate the availability of equipment, internet connectivity, and learning resources.
• Youth Participation in the Digital Economy: Discussions focused on preparing Ghanaian youth to take advantage of opportunities within the growing digital economy through technology education..
• Rural Telephony Project Accountability: –The Minister emphasized the need for an independent audit of the Rural Telephony Project to verify contractors' reports and identify gaps in rural connectivity..
• GIFEC's Commitment to Digital Inclusion: – GIFEC reaffirmed its commitment to bridging the digital divide by expanding access to electronic communications, community digital infrastructure, and digital transformation initiatives across underserved communities..