Ghana's Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, is making a compelling case for African unity in the telecommunications sector. Speaking at the opening of the first African Preparatory Meeting for WTSA 2028 in Accra, he delivered what I consider a wake-up call for the continent.
The message was clear: Africa needs to stop being a passive player in global digital standards. Instead of simply adopting rules made elsewhere, the continent must become an active participant in shaping them.
"We want to develop a united African proposal that reflects our continent's needs while aligning with global standards. Africans must become rule makers, not just rule takers," George declared.
Continental Coordination Takes Center Stage
The two-day meeting represents a significant step toward this goal. Organized by the Africa Telecommunications Union in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union and Ghana's Ministry, the gathering brings together key stakeholders to prepare for the World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly scheduled for 2028.
What particularly notable was George's emphasis on the invisible nature of standards. He described them as "the invisible architecture of the digital world," ensuring interoperability, innovation, and inclusive access. This perspective shows a deep understanding of how technical standards shape entire economies.
Addressing Africa's Digital Challenges
The Minister outlined several critical priorities for the continent. These include bridging the digital divide through rural broadband expansion, strengthening cybersecurity measures, promoting affordable connectivity, and ensuring safe development of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things.
These are not abstract goals. Secretary-General of ATU, John Omo, provided sobering context by revealing that over 800 million Africans still lack mobile internet access. He also highlighted persistent affordability and trust issues that continue to hamper digital adoption across the continent.
International Support and Regional Leadership
The meeting also drew participation from global telecommunications leaders. ITU's Telecommunication Standardisation Bureau Director, Seizo Onoe, called for impactful and widely adopted standards. His presence signals international recognition of Africa's growing importance in global telecommunications.
Ghana's role as a regional leader became evident through remarks by Director-General of the National Communications Authority, Rev. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko. He highlighted Ghana's expanding role as a regional hub for equipment certification and interoperability testing.
The Path Forward
The timing of this preparatory meeting is strategic. With digital technologies rapidly transforming economies and societies worldwide, Africa cannot afford to remain on the sidelines of standard-setting processes. The artificial intelligence revolution and Internet of Things expansion will shape the next decade of technological development.
George's call for unity represents more than diplomatic rhetoric. It reflects a practical understanding that fragmented approaches weaken Africa's negotiating position in global forums. When African countries speak with one voice, they represent a market of over 1.3 billion people.
The success of this initiative will depend on sustained commitment from all African nations. The 2028 World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly offers a crucial opportunity for the continent to demonstrate its capacity for coordinated action in the digital sphere.