Strengthening Digital Cooperation and Economic Ties: Director General Benjamin Brake’s Visit to Ghana

Key elements of the Director General’s trip were the handing over of a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDOI), stakeholder discussions regarding data regulation and the country’s potential GDPR adequacy as well as the topics of business process and IT outsourcing. In addition, the presentation of concrete projects evidenced the innovative digital landscape in Ghana and meetings with organisations and representatives brought valuable insights regarding digital regulatory frameworks and the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Deepening German-Ghanaian cooperation through a Joint Declaration of Intent

Director General Brake handed over of the signed Joint Declaration of Intent (JDOI) to  Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Sam George. The JDOI signifies a commitment to deepen the cooperation between Germany and Ghana in the digital sector, promoting economic ties and fostering innovation. Both countries seek to collaborate on several key areas, including capacity building on emerging technologies, ICT infrastructure development, digital public services, entrepreneurship and innovation promotion, ICT policy and regulation, and research partnerships. The JDOI encapsulates the shared vision of Germany and Ghana to leverage digital technology for sustainable development. The partnership aims to create a robust digital ecosystem that benefits both countries.

Discussions with stakeholders highlighted data regulation and business process outsourcing as most relevant topics

During his visit, Director General Brake also met a wide variety of stakeholders to discuss critical topics such as data regulation and transfers. This discussion is crucial as it explores the alignment of Ghana's data protection regulation with the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Achieving GDPR adequacy could bolster Ghana's position as a reliable partner in the global digital economy, ensuring that data transfers between Ghana and the EU meet stringent privacy standards. Another significant topic covered was the potential for business process and IT outsourcing. This initiative aims to promote closer economic ties by creating job opportunities in Ghana and addressing the skills shortage in Germany. By leveraging Ghana's growing pool of skilled IT professionals, German companies can benefit from cost-effective outsourcing solutions while contributing to job creation and economic development in Ghana.

Left: Director General Brake’s delegation with members of the Ghana IGF multistakeholder advisory group.
Center: Martin Kwame Awagah, President, Ghana FinTech and Payments Association, Anthony Owusu-Ansah, President, Association of Licensed Courier Companies & CEO ShaQ Express.
Right: Director General Brake with representatives of German companies and the Delegation of German Industry & Commerce in Ghana (AHK).

Concrete projects provided insights into financial and regulatory landscape

Director General Brake also gained insights into concrete projects that exemplify the innovative spirit of Ghana's digital landscape. One such project is the eCedi of the Bank of Ghana, a digital currency initiative undertaken together with the German company Giesecke+Devrient that aims to enhance financial inclusion and streamline monetary transactions. He also learned about existing cooperation, as in the case of the University of Ghana’s Faculty of Law that is working together with University of Freiburg. In a conversation with students and faculty, the need for harmonised data protection and policy was further underscored.

Meetings with organisations and representatives focused on innovation, growth and entrepreneurship

Throughout his visit, Director General Brake met with several key organizations and representatives. Meetings with the National Information Technology Authority (NITA), the Ghana IGF Multistakeholder Advisory Group, and Africa Digital Rights Hub provided valuable insights into Ghana's digital policy landscape and regulatory framework. These discussions highlighted the importance of robust ICT policies and regulations in fostering a conducive environment for digital innovation and growth. In addition, Director General Brake also interacted with representatives from Ghana's private sector, including young entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs, as well as German companies and the Delegation of German Industry & Commerce in Ghana (AHK). These interactions underscored the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Ghana and the potential for collaboration between German and Ghanaian businesses. By fostering partnerships and promoting knowledge exchange, both countries can benefit from shared expertise and resources, driving innovation and economic growth.

Director General Benjamin Brake's visit to Ghana has laid a strong foundation for continued collaboration in the digital sector. As both countries work towards achieving their digital goals, this partnership holds the promise of driving innovation, creating economic opportunities, and fostering a more inclusive digital future.