Ghana is putting more public money behind science and artificial intelligence as President John Dramani Mahama seeks to turn research into practical solutions, businesses and jobs.

The government has launched the Ghana National Research Fund with GH¢100 million ($8.88 million) for 2026, while separately committing $250 million to build a national artificial intelligence computing centre. The moves put research funding and AI infrastructure at the center of Ghana’s technology plans.

The push comes as Mahama asks the newly sworn-in Environment, Science and Technology Minister Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings to strengthen links between universities, research institutions and industry. He wants scientists and young technology professionals to apply their skills to agriculture, health, energy, manufacturing and the digital economy.

For Ghana, the challenge is not only producing research but making sure that work reaches businesses and communities. The government says the new funding should help close that gap and give researchers more support to develop ideas that can be used in the economy.

Ghana steps up research funding

The Ghana National Research Fund was launched in June with GH¢100 million($8.88 million) for competitive research grants, doctoral and postdoctoral programs, digital grants management and priority research projects.

Mahama has urged research institutions to focus on areas such as food security, climate resilience, health and governance. He also wants scientific discoveries to move beyond academic papers and into products and services that can be commercialized.

Connecting research with business

The Ghana National Research Fund, established under Act 1056, is designed to provide a national system for financing research and supporting innovation. Its 2026-2030 priorities include research talent, competitive funding, industry partnerships and stronger institutions.

For Zanetor, who was sworn in on Aug. 29, the task now is to connect that research capacity with Ghana’s wider economic needs.

Mahama has specifically called for stronger support for local inventors and closer cooperation among universities, research institutions and industry.

Ghana’s Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology oversees policy and programs covering scientific research, technology and innovation, alongside environmental responsibilities.

Under Zanetor’s leadership, the ministry is expected to place greater emphasis on research, technology and practical innovation.

The combined research and AI investments give Ghana a larger pool of public funding for science and technology, but the test will be whether that money produces technologies, businesses and jobs that people can see in the wider economy.