Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has called on African nations to unite in protecting their digital sovereignty, data privacy, and cultural values in the face of growing global technological influence.
Speaking at the 4th African Inter-Parliamentary Conference on Family, Sovereignty & Values, the Minister urged African leaders and policymakers to work collectively through the African Union to develop stronger regulations governing digital platforms, artificial intelligence, and data protection.
According to him, Africa must negotiate with global technology companies from a position of strength and unity rather than as individual countries.
“Africa Must Speak With One Voice”
Hon. Sam George argued that major global powers such as the European Union have achieved significant influence by acting as a bloc when dealing with multinational corporations and international policy issues.
He said Africa must adopt a similar approach in addressing challenges posed by global technology companies that control vast amounts of data belonging to African citizens.
“The only way we can effectively deal with these global platforms is by working together as African countries. We must bring them to the table on our own terms,” he stated.
Concern Over Data Control
The Minister expressed concern about the growing amount of African data being controlled and processed outside the continent.
He warned that data has become one of the world’s most valuable resources and stressed the need for African governments to establish strong legal frameworks to protect citizens’ information.
According to him, Africa’s future in artificial intelligence and digital innovation depends largely on how effectively the continent safeguards and utilizes its data resources.
“Our data is valuable. The future of artificial intelligence will be driven by data, and Africa cannot afford to be left behind,” he noted.
Protecting Children and Cultural Values
A major focus of the Minister’s address was the impact of social media and digital platforms on children and family values.
He questioned whether community standards created by technology companies in foreign countries adequately reflect African traditions, cultures, and moral values.
Sam George argued that content moderation policies developed outside Africa often fail to consider the unique cultural realities of African societies.
“Who makes the rules? Are the values of California the same as the values of communities in Ghana, Malawi, Uganda, or other African countries?” he asked.
The Minister further warned that unchecked digital content could negatively influence young people and undermine family values if proper safeguards are not established.
Call for Stronger Regulation
Hon. Sam George emphasized the need for governments across Africa to enact stronger laws governing online platforms, data management, and artificial intelligence technologies.
He also called for greater accountability from technology companies regarding how content is promoted and monetized on their platforms.
According to him, algorithms that prioritize controversial or harmful content for financial gain pose a significant challenge to society and require urgent attention from policymakers.
Advancing Africa’s Digital Future
The Minister concluded by urging African governments, legislators, and stakeholders to work together in building a digital ecosystem that protects citizens, respects cultural values, and promotes economic growth.
Participants at the conference welcomed the discussion as part of broader efforts to strengthen African cooperation on issues relating to technology, governance, family values, and national sovereignty.
The 4th African Inter-Parliamentary Conference on Family, Sovereignty & Values brought together lawmakers, policymakers, religious leaders, and civil society representatives from across the continent to discuss key issues affecting Africa’s future. Sam George