Ghana Ready For ICT Takeoff

ACCRA, Feb 26 - The Minister of Communications and Technology, Mr. Albert Kan Dapaah, last Monday told the Business Chronicle in an interview that Ghana has systematically put in place the necessary platforms required to launch the country into the growing world of information and communication technology over the past few years.

"Apart from the policy framework which is now in the public domain, we are taking the necessary measures to provide our social and economic development agenda and the needed tools in ICT for rapid growth," he said.

He disclosed to this paper that Ghana has been given the opportunity to host the third International Conference and Exhibition in information and communication technology (ICT) and Economic Development at the Accra International Conference Center from 3rd to 5th March 2004.

The Minister said Ghana has collaborated with the International Chamber of Commerce after attending the second International Conference and has recognize the enormous benefit that will come to our nation as a host for the event.

Countries attending this forthcoming conference include member nations of Economic Community of West African State (ECOWAS), Zambia, Kenya, Swaziland, South Africa, Ethiopia, Ireland, Canada India and the USA.

Mr.Dapaah said the 3rd International Conference on ICT and Economic Development chose the theme, "The Challenges of ICT Development; Policy, Strategies, Equity and Access."

He said the conference would provide the over 200 participants the opportunity to share and exchange experiences, as well as establish and strengthen strategic partnerships for development.

He also told the Business Chronicle that, at the regional level, member countries of ECOWAS will be given the opportunity to identify regional specific goals and priorities, develop partnership among stakeholders, and enhance synergies, complementariness and awareness of regional ICT initiative.

He said the conference would discuss four main areas comprising Harnessing ICT for Development, National Strategies for ICT Policy Development, Africa and ICT Market Development comprising of Business Enterprises, ICT for National Regional and International Networking for Development.

by Gifty Korantemaa Siamah
Source: Ghanaian Chronicle/All Africa Global Media