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Speaker Alban Bagbin advocates for human-centered AI development in Ghana
via GhanaWeb2 min read
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, emphasized the need for Artificial Intelligence to align with human development during the unveiling of Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in Accra. Bagbin highlighted his commitment to ensuring AI deployment is guided by robust legislation, describing the strategy as a "social contract" rooted in Ghana’s values of fairness, inclusiveness, accountability, and justice. He cautioned against technological progress outpacing human development, stressing that innovation should benefit all segments of society, including rural communities, youth, the elderly, and Persons Living With Disabilities. Bagbin envisions an AI-enabled Ghana where both human and Artificial Intelligence address challenges in agriculture, education, healthcare, public sector efficiency, and youth employment. He noted Parliament's role in shaping AI governance through necessary legal frameworks for accountability, safety, and public trust. Bagbin also called for a multi-stakeholder approach, urging universities, research institutions, the private sector, and civil society to contribute actively, promoting ethics, responsible innovation, and accountability. He commended the various stakeholders who contributed to the strategy's development.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by GhanaWeb.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II will unveil the world's first customized Otumfuo Commemorative Gold Coin Box on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi. The event will be attended by President John Dramani Mahama, past presidents, and dignitaries. The box contains a 24-karat, one-ounce gold coin bearing the Asantehene's image, approved by the Bank of Ghana. This innovative piece integrates digital features, including two rechargeable touchscreens: a larger screen playing a documentary on Otumfuo's peacebuilding efforts, and a smaller screen displaying an animation of the gold coin. This technologically enhanced commemorative item is unprecedented for a monarch or traditional leader. Alongside the gold coin box, other commemorative items will be introduced, such as Otumfuo-branded gold bars in various weights 1g, 2.5g, 10g, 20g, 1 oz, 50g, 100g, and 5 oz, commemorative artworks embossed with the gold coin design, and a 24-karat wristwatch. These items symbolize Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s role as a mediator and stabilizing figure, with the gold coin box projecting his peace initiatives, the gold bars representing prosperity from unity, and the wristwatch reflecting his leadership's lasting relevance. The collection aims to transform his contributions to peace and national cohesion into tangible symbols for local and global audiences, resonating with Ghanaians, the African diaspora, and the international community.
The families of former Inspector General of Police IGP Paul Tawiah Quaye have announced his passing. He died on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the 37 Military Hospital after an illness. The Nii Korle Kulo Family of Asere Dzorshie and the Nii Ayikwei Sewuhu Family of Ahumka Atukpai released a statement confirming his death. Paul Tawiah Quaye served as IGP from 2009 to 2013 under the late President John Evans Atta Mills. His family highlighted his leadership in the Ghana Police Service as being marked by discipline, integrity, and commitment to national security, stating he served Ghana with unyielding honour, integrity, and dedication. Born on May 6, 1953, he is remembered as a notable police leader. Funeral and burial arrangements are being finalized, and the family has requested privacy and prayers during this time.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, cautioned that Artificial Intelligence AI offers significant opportunities but requires careful management to mitigate risks. Speaking at the unveiling of Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in Accra on April 24, 2026, Bagbin highlighted the event as a critical milestone for the country. He described the strategy as a national vision aimed at positioning Ghana as a leader in the ethical and responsible application of emerging technologies across Africa. Bagbin acknowledged AI's transformative power in various sectors globally, including economies, governance, education, healthcare, and security. However, he stressed that AI's rapid evolution necessitates proper regulation, warning that its benefits come with potential downsides if mismanaged. He noted that while AI can enhance productivity, improve public services, and expand economic opportunities, it could also exacerbate inequality, erode trust, and threaten privacy if not handled correctly. The Speaker emphasized the importance of ethical oversight, urging stakeholders to ensure technological advancement is paired with strong moral responsibility. He underscored Ghana’s constitutional obligation to deploy AI in ways that safeguard human dignity, strengthen democracy, and foster inclusive opportunities, stating that technological advancement must be morally grounded.
President John Dramani Mahama has assured the public that the reconstruction of the La General Hospital is expected to be completed and commissioned by November 2027. During a working visit to the project site on Friday, April 24, 2026, President Mahama commended the contractor and staff for their progress and urged them to ensure timely delivery. He emphasized the project's importance for improving healthcare in Accra, noting that patients previously using the facility have had to seek care at other major hospitals like Ridge Hospital, LEKMA, or Korle Bu. The new 160-bed facility will significantly increase bed capacity in the capital, addressing complaints about insufficient beds for emergencies. President Mahama highlighted the necessity of expanding healthcare infrastructure due to Accra's rapid population growth and increasing demand for quality healthcare services. The €50 million facility, which was demolished in 2020 due to structural defects, had faced delays due to funding challenges linked to the previous government’s debt restructuring program.