SMEs Urged to Embrace AI as Ghana Pushes Digital Transformation Agenda

By Maame Efua Kwaduah

The Chief Information Officer of MTN Ghana, Bernard Acquah, has encouraged small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) as a practical tool to improve efficiency, productivity and business growth.
Speaking at the MTN Business CTIO Roundtable Africa, Mr. Acquah described AI as a “force for good,” noting that it enables smaller businesses to operate at the level of larger organisations by expanding capacity without significantly increasing workforce size.
He explained that AI allows businesses to complete tasks faster and more accurately, helping SMEs maximise output while reducing operational pressure. According to him, effective use of AI can help small businesses overcome structural limitations and become more competitive.
Addressing concerns about job displacement, Mr. Acquah stressed that AI is not designed to replace human labour but to enhance it. He said the technology improves efficiency and creates new opportunities within the growing digital economy.
He also highlighted recent AI-driven innovations in Ghana’s digital space, including multilingual systems designed to improve service delivery across diverse communities. He noted that such solutions demonstrate AI’s potential to bridge gaps in accessibility and communication.
On cybersecurity, Mr. Acquah acknowledged rising digital risks but assured that telecom operators have implemented strong safeguards to protect customer data. He said companies such as MTN Ghana operate under strict regulatory standards and continuously upgrade their security systems, even if specific details cannot be disclosed.
Touching on national policy, he pointed to Ghana’s AI strategy as a key milestone, describing it as a 10-year roadmap aimed at integrating artificial intelligence across multiple sectors to drive economic development.
He added that AI is expected to transform the telecommunications sector by enabling more personalised services tailored to individual customer needs, improving service delivery and strengthening customer relationships.
Mr. Acquah dismissed claims that Ghana is lagging in AI adoption, stating that the country is taking a deliberate and strategic approach to ensure safe and effective implementation.
He emphasised that the national AI framework will help coordinate investments, guide adoption and ensure all sectors benefit from the technology.
According to him, with the right investment and structured rollout, artificial intelligence will play a major role in transforming businesses, improving services and advancing Ghana’s digital economy.