Ghana and Turkey have initiated discussions on cybersecurity and digital partnerships as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance technological cooperation between the two nations. This follows a high-level meeting between H.E. Huseyin Gungor, the Turkish Ambassador to Ghana, and Hon. Sam Nartey George (MP), Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation.
During the meeting, Ambassador Gungor congratulated Minister Sam George on his recent appointment and expressed Turkey’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Ghana, particularly in the fields of technology, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure development. The discussions centered on identifying areas where both countries could collaborate to drive technological innovation and improve cybersecurity frameworks.
Minister Sam George highlighted the National Information Technology Agency (NITA) and the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) as key agencies that could serve as strategic partners in fostering cooperation with Turkey. He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in enhancing Ghana’s cybersecurity resilience, improving digital education, and supporting innovation-driven economic growth.
Key Focus Areas for Collaboration
Several priority areas for cooperation were outlined during the discussions, including:
- Cybersecurity and Digital Protection – Enhancing Ghana’s cybersecurity framework through knowledge sharing, capacity building, and investment in digital security infrastructure.
- Education and Digital Literacy – Exploring opportunities to support ICT education and workforce development through training programs and exchange initiatives.
- Technology and Innovation Exchange – Leveraging Turkey’s expertise in digital transformation, smart cities, and fintech solutions to accelerate Ghana’s technological advancements.
- Investment in Digital Infrastructure – Encouraging Turkish businesses to invest in Ghana’s digital ecosystem, particularly in broadband expansion, cloud computing, and e-governance solutions.
Navigating Economic Challenges and Maximizing Opportunities
Minister Sam George acknowledged the current global economic challenges but emphasized the need to pursue strategic partnerships that align with Ghana’s long-term digital transformation goals. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for foreign investment and technological innovation, ensuring that collaborations with international partners like Turkey deliver tangible benefits to Ghana’s digital economy.
Participants and Stakeholders in the Meeting
The meeting was attended by key representatives from both Ghana and Turkey, including:
- Mr. Talha Tol – Commercial Counselor, Turkish Embassy
- Mr. Bugra Anildi – Representative, Dogus Group
- Mr. Arif Kaytaz – Representative, Dogus Group
- Mr. Emmanuel Kwashie Agbodzi – Representative, 10G Globaltech
Their presence underscored the strong interest from the Turkish business community in exploring investment opportunities in Ghana’s digital and technology sector.
As Ghana continues to position itself as a regional leader in digital innovation, collaborations with countries like Turkey offer valuable expertise, investment, and knowledge exchange. The engagement between the two nations signals a step toward stronger cooperation in cybersecurity and technological development, with potential agreements and joint initiatives expected in the near future.
With cybersecurity threats on the rise and digital transformation accelerating globally, such partnerships will be crucial in enhancing Ghana’s digital resilience, fostering innovation, and creating new economic opportunities in the tech sector.
