At a Glance
- Ghana, UAE sign $1 billion deal to build Africa’s largest tech hub in Ningo-Prampram.
- Microsoft, Meta, Alphabet to anchor Ghana’s digital district with AI, cloud innovation labs.
- Project to create 100,000+ jobs, boost Ghana’s economy, and drive Africa’s digital transformation.
In a game-changing move for West Africa’s digital economy, Ghana and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have inked a $1 billion deal to establish the continent’s largest technology hub — the Ghana-UAE Innovations and Technology Hub — in Ningo-Prampram, Greater Accra.
This strategic initiative aims to position Ghana as a leading AI and emerging technology center in Africa, accelerating digital transformation and economic growth.
Strategic partnership drives Ghana’s digital transformation
The landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Ghana’s Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, alongside Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman of the UAE’s Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC).
This collaboration reflects a shared vision to propel Ghana’s tech ecosystem, create jobs, and stimulate innovation-driven growth.
Minister George emphasized, “This partnership marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s journey to becoming a digital economy powerhouse. It will enhance technological capabilities and generate substantial employment.”
Global Tech giants to anchor innovation hub
The tech hub is set to attract over 11,000 technology companies, including industry leaders Microsoft, Meta, Oracle, IBM, and Alphabet.
These firms plan to establish regional headquarters and AI-focused innovation labs, developing solutions tailored for Africa’s unique challenges across agriculture, healthcare, and education sectors.
This move aligns with global tech giants’ expansion into emerging markets. Microsoft, for example, has committed $1.5 billion to UAE-based AI firm G42, underscoring its broader strategy to strengthen AI infrastructure across Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
Economic impact: Job creation and skills development
The Ghana-UAE tech hub is expected to generate over 100,000 jobs, spanning software development, cybersecurity, and data science.
It will also spur local startup growth and attract further foreign direct investment, positioning Ghana as a continental innovation leader.
Complementing this is the hub’s commitment to AI education, supporting Ghana’s “1 Million Coders” initiative to build a future-ready workforce equipped with AI and tech skills.
The project’s first phase involves developing a 25-acre site starting in 2026, fully funded by the PCFC with contributions from leading AI firms experienced in Dubai’s AI ecosystem.
Strengthening bilateral ties, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem noted, “Our partnership with Ghana underscores the power of technology to foster inclusive and sustainable growth, setting new standards for Africa’s digital future.”
Completion is targeted for 2028, marking Ghana as a pivotal player in Africa’s digital revolution and a magnet for global tech innovation.
