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Introduction
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising things through innovative, intelligent systems. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General, has predicted that AI will contribute $136 billion to the economies of Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa by 2030.
With the successful inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama as Ghana’s 6th President since 1992, DUBAWA asked some AI tools, including ChatGPT, Chat Bot AI+ and Chat AI, to predict events in the West African country in 2025.
Although the generative AI tools could not predict specific events, they outlined some informed expectations for Ghana in 2025 based on past years’ political, economic, social, and technological trends.
Here are Generative AI’s predictions for Ghana in 2025.
Economic Development
The AI tools have tipped Ghana’s oil and gas sector to be a significant economic growth driver in 2025. ChatGPT predicts ongoing development in oil fields such as Pecan and Jubilee will enhance revenue and foreign investments. The country has shown resilience and potential for economic growth and development, specifically in the petroleum, agriculture, and technology sectors. The West African country may experience moderate economic growth this year if current financial trends and policies continue. Also, programmes such as the One-district-one-factory rolled out by ex-President Nana Akufo-Addo could accelerate the trend of diversifying Ghana’s economy through agriculture, mining, and industrialisation.
Digital Economic Growth
Ghana may reap millions of dollars from industrialisation if it continues on the path of economic digitisation. According to the AI tools DUBAWA used, initiatives such as the “Ghana Digital Economy Policy” are fast increasing the adoption of digital technologies in the country’s finance, education, and healthcare sectors. Also, Ghana’s role within regional trade agreements, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), will likely influence its economic position and growth potential.
Infrastructure and Energy
The West African country may increase its renewable energy share if the new government continues investing in solar, wind, and hydro projects. This may improve energy access and sustainability in the country. Infrastructural projects such as the Ghana Integrated Infrastructure Plan (GIIP) have also been tipped to advance the country’s roads and transportation sector. They will also be key in providing social amenities and urbanisation.
Political Landscape
Ghana will continue to be the star of Africa after its peaceful democratic elections in Dec. 2024. Given its history of stable governance, the country is likely to remain politically stable, but challenges like corruption and public sector reform may persist. Although the country has a relatively stable democracy, political dynamics can change if political and accountability structures are not strengthened. The AI tools advised that continued political stability will be crucial for attracting investment and promoting sustainable development. Ghana has a large youth population, and AI tools cautioned that this may increase demands for greater representation, employment opportunities, and governance reforms. This is yet another area the new regime needs to focus on.
Education and Innovation
Education, especially Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, is predicted to be a game changer for Ghana this year if investment in this area continues. Also, if improved, the free senior high school (SHS) programme Mr Akufo-Addo started could enhance the quality of life and contribute to the country’s overall economic potential. The AI tools advised that Ghana’s focus on innovation and creativity could position it as a regional hub for tech start-ups.
Regional and Global Influence
Ghana may regain its influence in the ECOWAS sub-region if the current regime improves the country’s relationship with its neighbours, especially Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali. This may strengthen its leadership role within ECOWAS and continue to advocate for stability and economic integration in Africa. It could also benefit from stronger ties with global powers through trade and diplomacy.
Healthcare
The AI tools noted Ghana may see progress in universal health coverage, quality healthcare delivery, and the adoption of telemedicine. However, challenges like access to rural healthcare and accessibility of health facilities may persist. Despite strides in healthcare delivery, Ghana must sustain its effort to provide accessible healthcare to its vulnerable citizens.
Challenges Ghana may likely face in 2025
Despite Ghana’s predicted positive outlook in 2025, some potential challenges may derail these developments if they are not addressed on time.
Debt and Inflation
In recent years, Ghana has faced debt sustainability issues, economic turbulence, and inflationary pressures, which require a stable and firm hand to stabilise things. The AI tools have advised that effective economic management will be crucial to avoid financial and economic instability.
Climate Change
The AI tools have said rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns may impact the agriculture sector, Ghana’s largest employer. This may pose serious food security risks to the country. Also, climate change and environmental sustainability will be significant issues that President Mahama’s government has to address. Chat AI noted how the government addresses these challenges may determine how it impacts agriculture, health, and overall economic stability.
Urbanisation
Urbanisation is predicted to be one of Ghana’s significant challenges this year. According to AI tools, rapid urban growth in Ghana’s big cities, such as Accra and Kumasi, may strain resources, worsening housing, transportation, and sanitation challenges.
Conclusion
Barely one month into Mr Mahama’s regime, the country’s new President is expected to meet citizens’ hopes and aspirations by the end of his four-year term, according to AI’s predictions.
