As Ghana moves forward on its digital transformation journey, trust in digital systems is becoming a cornerstone of the country’s technological future. On the third day of National ICT Week celebrations, the spotlight was on this critical issue as the National Information Technology Agency (NITA) hosted a dynamic conference on ‘Digital Trust’ at the Kofi Annan Center of Excellence in ICT.
The event was more than just a gathering—it was a call to action for all stakeholders in the digital ecosystem. Attendees were asked to consider how trust can be built and maintained in Ghana’s emerging digital landscape, where adoption of new technologies depends on user trust.
Opening the conference, the Minister of Communications and Digitization, Mr. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (MP), set the tone with a powerful message. He stressed the urgent need to strengthen consent management practices, stressing that as Ghana embraces rapid digital developments, it is imperative to ensure that data protection laws are not merely implemented but actively enforced to safeguard privacy.
The discussions took a deep dive into the intricacies of consent management – a concept that is becoming increasingly complex in the digital age. Mr. Richard Okyere-Fosu, Director General of NITA, addressed these challenges head-on, exploring the philosophical and practical difficulties of obtaining and managing consent, especially in the context of Ghana’s data protection legislation. His insights highlighted the delicate balance between embracing innovation and protecting personal data.
The discussion then shifted to cyber security, with Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako, Director General of the Cyber Security Authority, highlighting the critical intersection between consent management and data security. He highlighted the need for strong cyber security measures to protect personal data from unauthorized access and breaches, a concern that resonates deeply in today’s digital world.
Adding a global perspective, Mr. Biju Varghese, Executive Vice President of eMudhra drew attention to the fintech and payment systems sector, stressing the importance of clear and informed consent in digital financial transactions. He warned that while technological innovations offer enormous benefits, they also introduce significant risks that must be carefully managed.
The event also featured a thought-provoking panel discussion with leading experts, including Teki Akuetteh, Esq., Executive Director of Digital Rights Hub LBG. Ms. Audrey Mnisi Mireku, Risk and Cyber Security Executive of the Ghana Bankers Association. Nhyiraba Yaw Sompa, Esq., of Sompa and Partners; and Martin Kwame Awagah, President of the Ghana Fintech and Payments Association. The panel addressed issues of transparency, user control and security in consent management, offering practical solutions and predicting future trends in data protection.
Closing the day, Solomon Richardson from NITA’s Technical Services Department gave an insightful presentation on the establishment of a certification authority, highlighting its importance in enhancing digital trust in Ghana.
The conference left participants with a clear message: as Ghana moves digitally, building and maintaining trust is not just desirable – it is necessary. With the discussions sparked today, Ghana is well on its way to securing a trusted and secure digital future for all.
