Despite recent improvements in key areas like education, health, agriculture and entertainment as a result of the advancement in technology, the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications says more needs to be done by relevant stakeholders to ensure all facets of Ghanaian life are enhanced significantly by new technology.

According to the World Economic Forum, access to technology in Ghana and the rest of Africa, which many believe will facilitate the next phase of growth across the continent, must be coupled with the socio-economic welfare of the people, with innovations in healthcare, education, and commerce addressing the pain points of, particularly, the most vulnerable members of society.

For multiple stakeholders, Ghanaians specifically will need to be empowered with the necessary digital competencies, if the country is to achieve its true potential.

Speaking at the 20th knowledge forum of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, the Chamber’s CEO Dr. Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey, noted that the key sectors like education, health, agriculture and entertainment will not be able to get maximum returns if they fail to leverage technology.

“If some farmers can tell the temperature of their cows to know at what point to milk for the cheese they want, but our Agriculture players are investing in cutlasses and hoes, then you will find out that your development in technology is not going as far as it should. For entertainment as well, how ready are players in the creative space to take advantage of all the insights that big data can give them so that when they produce their materials they can maximize their returns.”

One of the panel members for the 20th knowledge forum and CEO of the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana Anthony Morrison, in his presentation, called on technology agents in the country to develop solutions to address pertinent issues in the agriculture sector.

“Looking at post-harvest losses, for example, technology can provide a strategic mitigating tool to make sure we reduce post-harvest losses. Technology in warehouses can ensure grains and stored produce do not go bad for example.”

The 20th knowledge forum, brought together policy-makers, industry regulators, legislators, business captains, and mobile industry representatives. The panel discussion for the forum was on the topic: “The Impact of the Telecom Industry in Ghana on Agriculture, Health, Education & Entertainment: the past, present and how it would shape the future”.